New times, new traditions: Modern wedding trends from stock-the-bar parties to social networking sites

October is the new June. More and more, weddings are taking place in the height of fall foliage, heart of winter and prime holiday season, including the ever-popular New Year's Eve ceremony to ring in the new year. But it's not just the wedding season that has drastically evolved over the past decade -- it's everything from roles and responsibilities to gift-giving.

As decades pass, so will traditions, but proper etiquette is timeless. Lizzie Post, co-author of "Emily Post's Etiquette, 18th edition" and great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post, helps couples navigate the new traditions of weddings. Be prepared for the next wedding you attend, whether your own or someone else's, and know what to expect from changes in the wedding landscape:

__Pay it forward:__ Finding the right gift for the newlyweds can be difficult. While registries help point guests in the right direction, many couples are getting married later in life and already have all the household items that are common wedding gifts. To provide the couple with a small nest egg to use however they wish, a check is always a great and safe gift idea. Several financial institutions offer mobile check deposit through their banking app, allowing the couple the flexibility to deposit checks on-the-go to help cover outstanding vendor payments or use on their honeymoon. Another new-age trend is contributing to a couple's honeymoon fund.

__Temper tech use:__ Even weddings are going high-tech. Numerous websites are available to help the couple organize the process, communicate with guests and share photos after the ceremony. But a few things -- such as a handwritten "thank you" note -- should steer clear of the high-tech lure.

In a gadget-driven society, everyone is carrying a smartphone. Couples can post a tasteful notice at the entrance of the ceremony location or in the program to remind guests to turn off their cellphone ringers and refrain from use during the ceremony. Some couples may actually encourage guests to take photos and share images via social media, but guests should respect their wishes and use phones only as a camera and upload images after the ceremony.

Just married sign and empty cans fastened to car

__Respect personalization:__ Couples want their special day to reflect who they are and what is important to them. While previous generations traditionally wed in places of worship, many modern couples choose to tie the knot at a sentimental location, such as where they had their first date. The decor, music and even the food and drink served at a wedding may have a personal story behind it. No matter how nontraditional the element may be, guests should eagerly partake in the festivities, acknowledging and respecting the couple's individualization.

__Be all-inclusive:__ In the past, bridal showers were strictly for the bride and bachelor parties were a men-only affair. Nowadays, these festivities are no longer gender-specific. Showers can be thrown for the couple in unison and include creative themes like "stock the bar" or "time of day." Bachelor and bachelorette parties also can be conjoined to involve the entire bridal party in a destination event.