Wedding Traditions Explained

Considering that a wedding is the most important event in a person's life it is not surprising that most couples want to make this a unique occasion. Most people these days opt for exclusive weddings like theme wedding, destination wedding and so on.

However, there is no denying the importance of the traditional wedding. This is the white wedding most Americans think of when they consider what a wedding is like. Usually there are bridesmaids, groomsmen, ushers, flower girls, ring bearers and so forth. The wedding may take place in a church or outside. The ceremony can be Christian or secular. Common wedding customs include the unity candle lighting, the ring exchange, presentation of tokens to the mothers, and the throwing of rice or confetti, rose petals or blowing of bubbles as the couple leaves the church. At the reception there are usually toasts made, a cake cutting, dancing and a bouquet toss.

Many couples consider traditional weddings to be dry and choose to do something a little different and adopt themes for their weddings. The theme could be historic, ethnic, holiday, or anything else the imagination can conjure up. Customs vary according to the theme. Historical themes are quite popular. They offer interesting costumes for the wedding party, guests, and even the minister to wear. The decorations, customs, etc. can reflect the time period. Ethnic weddings are also an interesting trend. Sometimes you have a couple whose families are from different backgrounds so elements from both cultures will be incorporated.

A Scottish wedding can be a traditional wedding with bagpipes and kilts. It also can be a theme wedding with many of customs from the Old Country adapted for the occasion. Many couples 'sash' the bride after the vows. At this time in the ceremony the groom presents his bride with a sash made out of his clan's tartan as a 'welcome to the clan' gesture. Simple ceremonies are generally no fuss affairs. These weddings can be done in parks, backyards, living rooms, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, etc. These kinds of weddings are especially popular with those who have been married before and/or are older and just don't want all the stress that goes along with planning a huge party.

What of the veil that accompanies the dress? Since the 1800s, the fine mesh fabric has been considered a means of guarding the bride from lewd eyes, symbolizing her chastity and purity. But even before that, the veil was symbolic. Centuries ago, the common believe was that evil spirits were out to pick on brides on their special days. In order to throw the spirits off their tracks, brides wore veils to screen their faces.

It was also to confuse and frighten the evil spirits that couples began tying tin cans to their cars before driving off in the marriage vehicle. The noise of the banging cans was thought to scare the spirits and prohibit them from following the new couple as they set off together to begin their lives as man and wife.

Marie Voe is the proprietor and delegate of ABC Marriage, your source for all of your marriage and wedding needs. Visit us online at: http://www.abcmarriage.com.