The bride of today does, however, vary markedly to that of previous generations and is certainly a product of changed economic and social conditions - as is today's wedding ceremony. Instead, some brides choose to have both their mother and father walk them down the aisle and others do it solo.
Couples now prefer to write their own or make slight variations as they please.
Although garden weddings and eloping are always an option, many young women are choosing to have traditional church weddings. Preparing for a wedding is about the family getting involved. Full dresses are still in and full prices are paid. The Carolyn Bessette slip wedding dress is preferred by those brides opting away from the traditional full hooped dress. The throwing of the bouquet seems to be more of a humiliating experience for singles than an honour.