Home » Wedding Traditions to Skip for a Fun, Modern Celebration in Puerto Rico

Wedding Traditions to Skip for a Fun, Modern Celebration in Puerto Rico

Weddings have evolved, and now more than ever, couples are throwing out the rulebook when it comes to traditional wedding elements. As a wedding photographer in Puerto Rico, I’ve seen how more and more couples want a celebration that’s unique to them. If you are planning a beachfront wedding in Old San Juan or an intimate ceremony at La Concha Resort? It’s time to make your day truly about you.

Here are a few wedding traditions to skip that can make your celebration in Puerto Rico more personalized and fun:

1. Waiting Until the Ceremony to See Each Other

You don’t need to wait for the ceremony to have that magical first look! A growing trend, especially with destination weddings, is to have a “first look” before the ceremony. It’s a special, private moment that gives couples the chance to enjoy their day a little more fully—plus, it’s a great way to ease those pre-wedding jitters. And as a bonus, you’ll have more time to enjoy cocktail hour with your guests!

Puerto Rico’s iconic locations, like the colorful streets of Old San Juan or the stunning beaches in Isla Verde, provide the perfect backdrop for a first look.

2. The Bridal Party

Some couples are skipping bridal parties altogether! Not only does this save on costs, but it also takes the pressure off your friends. You can still celebrate with them, but they get to enjoy the day without any extra responsibilities. Instead of focusing on traditional roles, why not invite them to simply party and relax in the beautiful Puerto Rican sunshine?

Plus, without the bridal party, you can focus on more meaningful and candid moments during the ceremony.

3. Flower Girls and Ring Bearers

Let’s be real—sometimes kids can get shy or overwhelmed during big events. Some couples are opting to have their pets walk down the aisle instead, and I’m *all* for it! There’s something heartwarming about seeing your pup strut its stuff in Puerto Rico’s breezy outdoor venues.

If you want an all-adult wedding, this is another great reason to skip the tradition of flower girls or ring bearers altogether. The vibe is entirely up to you.

4. Bouquet and Garter Toss

While the bouquet and garter toss are traditional, some couples prefer to keep the reception flowing without these moments. Skipping this tradition doesn’t mean missing out on fun—you can choose to hand out your bouquet to a close friend or family member instead. It keeps the energy of the night going, and you don’t have to pause the party!

5. Choose What Matters Most to You

Ultimately, it’s all about what makes *you* happy. Whether you’re saying “I do” on a catamaran near Icacos Island or hosting an elegant wedding at Hotel El Convento in Old San Juan, the day should reflect what you both love.

As a Puerto Rico wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to capture couples from all over the world, and I’ve seen firsthand how amazing it is when couples make their wedding truly theirs. Whatever traditions you decide to keep or skip, remember—it’s your day!

Check out Nick and Laura’s wedding! They had a first look at one of my favorite hidden spots at La Concha Resort, and it made for some stunning, relaxed moments before their ceremony.

Thinking of Eloping or Having a Destination Wedding in Puerto Rico?

I’d love to chat with you about your wedding plans! It doesn’t matter if you are eloping or hosting a micro-wedding, I’m here to help you capture every meaningful moment in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.