And the Backlash Begins: JK Wedding Video Inspires and Annoys

 

jk-wedding-danceThe viral hit of the Minnesota couple dancing down the aisle to Chris Brown’s “Forever” has done more than provide a little light-hearted entertainment. The video has started a trend of couples who all want to do something unique, unorthodox and rememberable for their weddings. I somewhat touched on this topic last week when I wrote about how to have a unique wedding. Although I listed three tips, the general consensus was to have fun and make the whole experience personable. What I didn’t touch on was how this advice could backfire and turn into an over-the-top effort to impress others.

After I posted that blog, I chatted with editorial director Satya Picard (and also author of our Wedding Dresses Magazine blog) about the phenomenon, but she wasn’t as enthusiastic as I was. She shot the idea down and said the video would inspire those who only care about one-upping the next wedding so that all their friends and family will talk about them. I disagreed at first, because I’m a big fan of nontraditional weddings, but at the same time I could see how people could start taking things too far.

This sentiment was echoed in blogs and message boards when people shared their reactions about the video. Although there were several “I want to do something similar at my wedding!” responses, there were also an equal number of, “They should have saved this for the reception; you don’t do that at church.”

The Grand Folks Herald even interviewed several church leaders about the JK Wedding Dance; a few of them were not pleased with what they saw, while others said they would let it slide…for now. “My concern would be if it looks showy, trying to draw attention to themselves,” Rev. Keith Becker said. “Is it more a show than a glorify-God moment? It goes back to the heart of the individuals involved.”

But religion aside, where should the line be drawn? What is genuine quirkiness and what’s just elaborate attention grabbing?

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Comments

 

  1. I think it entirely depends on the religious institution that the church is affiliated with. I was married in a Catholic church, and something like the JK Wedding Dance would never, ever, ever be possible. Catholicism focuses on solemn reverence rather than the joyous exclamation that can be found in other christian or non-denominational religions. I, for one, believe that there’s nothing wrong with expressing your individuality and personality while dancing in praise of God. Really, why would God care that there’s a room full of people who are joyful, having a great time, and spreading smiles all over. I say, if you’re church isn’t uber traditional, if your guests aren’t super stuffy, then go for it! A wedding is all about celebration, and it should be the same for the ceremony AND the reception.

  2. engagement101mag says:

    Oh yeah, I definitely agree that a wedding should be fun and should match the energy of the people getting married, but I was thinking more of those people who feel like they need to put on a show to make their wedding stand out now.

  3. Jay says:

    While the JK dance was totally against etiquette and tradition, if that is what the couple wanted to do and that embodies them, then I think it is totally fine. If someone does that just to one up another person on youtube well that is something else.

    Jay
    Picasso Perfect Photography

  4. Andy says:

    It’s their life…their moment…their decision. If it’s not hurting anyone else…so be it. We worry too much about what other people do. It’ll get old…and there is nothing like the original.

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