I'd do what I want. State your reason once, (sorry, gotta work) smile and say "I Love you!"
and don't worry about it after that. You are an adult now...make your own rules/traditions, and let the old chips fall where they may.
Usually, the bark is worse than the bite. Some people just freak over change, after a year or two of you doing what YOU want, the others will forget/adjust, (becuase they HAVE too!) and you will be happier.