Some weddings keep the bridal bouquet and garter toss on the schedule, but many couples are straying from these traditions in favor of more modern (and arguably less awkward) moments.

There is something lovely about the upkeep of traditions, but many brides and grooms feel uncomfortable at the thought of an intimate garter removal in front of family. Throwing a cherished bouquet into a pack of single ladies also has its downsides.

Here are some ideas that retain the warmth of a tradition, but keep away from the awkward:

Couples Dance

Instead of giving your bouquet to the single ladies, consider doing the opposite; give your bouquet to the couple that has been married the longest. Invite all of the married couples attending your wedding to join you on the dance floor. Occasionally pause the music and have couples leave the dance floor as you count up the years of marriage. The dancing will begin with a packed floor, but as you progress from “one year” to “five years” to “ten years,” and so forth, the floor will empty until one couple remains dancing. They will be touched to receive your bridal bouquet and words of admiration.

Gift Card Toss

Invite all of the single people out on the dance floor – men and women. Then, toss back a small bouquet that has a gift card for a restaurant tied to the stems. You can announce that your flowers or garter won’t help them find love, but a dinner date might.

Something Borrowed

Start a real tradition by handing the bouquet to your friend with an upcoming wedding, and toast her and her fiancé. She will be able to take elements from the bouquet (such as the pins and ribbon) and incorporate them into her own bouquet, thus gaining “something borrowed.” Then, she can do the same passing of the bouquet at her own wedding, allowing another bride down the line to continue the tradition.

Toss the Boutonniere

If you still want to throw something to the single men, but you don’t want the scandal of the garter toss, then just toss the boutonniere - but take the pins out first!

Thank the Mothers

If you’re very close with your mother and MIL, order a few additional small bouquets from your florist. Give a speech and thank your parents, especially your mother and mother-in-law, and then give your mothers the bouquets. You could also give bouquets to your grandmothers. They will appreciate the sentiment and your kind words of gratitude for what they have taught you. 

Final Thoughts

If you are still hesitating at the thought of giving away your bridal bouquet, then don’t give it away! Ask your florist for a second bouquet (even a smaller one will do). Hide your real one and then use the second bouquet as the gift. Nobody will notice the difference!

And remember that your wedding is your wedding. If you don’t want to have any sort of garter or bouquet toss, don’t! Enjoy your special day and only include the traditions that are important to you and your partner.