A graphic designer’s take on breaking wedding traditions

Planning a wedding without following traditional expectations is not an easy task. It takes courage to step away from customs that don’t feel personal or meaningful to you.

Breaking away from traditions just because they are expected is a bold decision

but one that can lead to a day that truly reflects who you are as a couple. It’s important to keep only those traditions that feel like your own and have real meaning for you. And that’s exactly what we did.

I still clearly remember the surprised tone of my grandmother’s voice on the phone when she realized that at our wedding, there wouldn’t be a formal sit-down dinner with waiters serving warm soup and a glass of red wine - the way she always imagined a wedding should be. But when I explained that we would have a self-service bar where anyone would be happy to bring her wine or her favourite cognac whenever she wanted, she felt reassured. I think many conflicts around weddings come from poor communication or the lack of it. Once we take the time to explain our vision with kindness, it often turns out that people are more open to something different than we expect. After all, your guests are there because they want to celebrate with you, aren't they?

A Laid-back, Italian-inspired celebration

A well-designed moodboard will be your biggest help

When I started designing for our wedding, I wanted every detail to feel personal. As a graphic designer, aesthetics and storytelling mattered just as much as the emotions behind them. Because I know that special decorations and an extra setting can set the vibe for celebration.

Our wedding took place in July 2023 in Kőszeg, Hungary at Napostető Borterasz. Both the ceremony and the garden party happened there. We envisioned it as a summer party with our closest friends and family, where good music, great drinks, and a buffet-style dinner set the mood. There were no traditional wedding programs, just a night of pure fun, dancing to funky music until dawn and mixing exciting cocktails at our DIY cocktail bar.

Budget-friendly DIY decor

From a design perspective, having a well-prepared moodboard and concept for decorations and ambiance is key. Once you define the colors and atmosphere, it becomes much easier to create cohesive decorations. This ensures harmony throughout the event. The graphic materials should also match the chosen style, whether you aim for a playful and relaxed vibe or an elegant and luxurious atmosphere or whatever in-between, you can shape every detail accordingly.

We didn’t spend a lot on decorations, yet the setting was magical.

Well, to be honest, the location was already so nice, fresh green nature around us everywhere in a neatly organized vineyard, you can imagine. But to make it even more special I crafted a lot of meters of pastel-colored ribbon garlands. They danced in the warm summer breeze, while white paper lanterns and fairy lights illuminated the night. A few sparkling disco balls added a touch of fun, and the flowers? To kick-off our wedding day we went and bought them in the morning from the local honesty boxes in Kőszeg. (It’s a tradition in our hometown to put flowers or fruits in front of your house to sell.) We arranged the flowers ourselves, including the floral arch, which cost almost nothing but looked beautiful. Everything blended into nature so perfectly.

A sustainable approach to drinks & cocktails

One of the most fun DIY elements was our cocktail bar. I designed a large illustrated poster with cocktail recipes so guests could unleash their inner mixologists. This idea turned the bar into an interactive experience. We made sure to avoid plastic bottled sodas entirely, only sparkling water, local artisanal syrups, craft cocktails, and regional wines were served. Sustainability was a priority for us.

Thoughtful wedding favors

Instead of generic wedding favors, each guest received a personalized cookie made with a custom-designed cookie cutter featuring our initials. This small but meaningful touch embodied the essence of personalized, handcrafted design something I always value in my work.

A Wedding that felt like us

Looking back, we couldn’t be happier that we broke with traditions and created a wedding that felt 100% us. It was intimate, fun, and filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

And the best part? Our guests absolutely loved it! So many of them told us afterward how much they enjoyed the unexpected relaxed atmosphere, the music, and the personal touches that made the day unique. In the end, that’s what truly matters, not following expectations, but creating a day that brings joy to everyone involved.

Need Help with wedding graphics?

Line Studio is here!

At Line Studio, we specialize in designing custom invitations, illustrated materials, and unique wedding stationery to make your big day even more personal.

Whether you need beautifully crafted wedding invitations, menus, signage, wine labels, or any other graphic design elements, we’re here to help bring your vision to life.

Let’s create something truly special together!