b'Something NewIncreasingly, couples are leaving out the something old when it comes to their weddings, eschewing traditions to put their own stamp on their special day. More and more, couples are realizing their ultimate wedding celebration is not about the pomp and circumstance or the expectations of what a traditional wedding is supposed to be, but rather the simplicity of finally being with friends and family, says Jen Avey, vice president of marketing forDestination Weddings Travel Group . Theyre increasingly nixing the wedding party, says Avey, in favor of low stress and zero drama.We see couples straying away from the bouquet and garter toss during the reception, says Bri Marbais, bridal stylist at The Bridal Finery . Couples want their guests to really enjoy themselves, and sometimes this wedding tradition can be a little uncomfortable and awkward. So instead, they are looking for alternative ways to wow their guests through experiences at the wedding, such as live performers or late-night bites.Another stale tradition? Saving the top tier of the wedding cake to eat while celebrating a first anniversary. More and more couples are non-traditional, and its almost trendy to be non-traditional, saysAutumn Nomad s Melfi. Weve seen the top tier being saved for the day-after brunch, orour most recent favoritea couple eating their cake the night of the wedding as they finally wind down in their hotel room.CATERING, FOODSERVICE & EVENTS cfe-news.com33'