Wedding Traditions That'll Make You Feel like Royalty

There’s nothing quite like the grandeur of a royal wedding. While you’re planning your own walk down the aisle, get inspired by some of these charming and sophisticated royal wedding traditions!

Include the Kids in Your Party

In British aristocratic weddings, children play a major role. They can serve as pageboys, flower girls, ring bearers, and even bridesmaids. While it might take some extra planning–and plenty of patience–to ensure that the kids are well-behaved and having a good time, it’s worth it.

Pro tip: Designate one or two adults to be in charge of wrangling the junior members of the wedding party.

Make Your Bouquet Meaningful

Every British royal bride includes a sprig of myrtle in her bouquet. And not just any sprig, but a cutting from a plant that Queen Victoria herself planted! You can adopt a similar tradition by using flowers from a loved one’s garden. If that’s not an option, then consider flowers that have special meaning in your family.

Dress to Impress

Dress codes at royal weddings are quite strict, but the result is that everyone looks their absolute best. While you don’t have to go with traditional hats and dresses or morning suits, it is a good idea to figure out a dress code that works for the aesthetic of your wedding.

Make sure to communicate that dress code very clearly to your guests, too! Not everyone has the same idea of what “business casual” or “cocktail attire” means.

Pose for an Official Portrait

Your guests have taken the time to dress up for your wedding, so why not get a snapshot of them in all their finery? Posing for a traditional wedding portrait has fallen out of favor in modern ceremonies, but there’s no reason you can’t bring back the tradition. Talk to your photographer about it beforehand to plan the logistics.

Sparkle to Your Heart’s Content

The focal point of a royal bride’s trousseau is her tiara. Almost always steeped in history–and dripping in diamonds–these regal yet delicate crowns are more than just bling.

Wearing a family heirloom is a wonderful way to feel connected to your loved ones–and even your ancestors, depending on the age of the piece. If you don’t have a family heirloom, then why not choose something special that you can pass down to your kids someday? Be the first to start a brand-new tradition for future generations.