March 8 marks International Women’s Day, the day that people across the globe will celebrate women and all that they have achieved on the road to gender equality. It began as a radical feminist event in the early 20th century and has evolved into a mainstream recognition of womanhood and, in honour of the day, we’re commemorating the way that women are championing women on their wedding days. Instead of having their fathers give them away (an archaic tradition indicating that the bride is no longer her father’s property and now belongs to her groom), brides are opting to walk down the aisle alone or with their mothers. Here’s everyone who has snubbed the status quo so far.
Meghan Markle
Meghan Markle was the first royal British bride to walk herself to the Quire of St George’s Chapel, where she was met by Prince Charles for her final steps to now-husband Prince Harry. Meghan’s father had originally intended to do the duty, but he was unable to attend the wedding since he was recovering from heart surgery. This is a particularly bold statement as a member of the royal family, where any deviation from tradition could come under fire.
SEE: The next time we could see Prince Harry and Meghan Markle