While on a wedding forum the other day I made the mistake of asking about a groom’s cake and was inundated with sharp pointed remakes about it being an “overseas custom” that is not “observed here!”
I was at first irritated with the rude, ignorant and generally ill-considered opinions (not to mention it’s an internet forum ! You can’t tell who I am, what I look like or what nationality I might be). Later, I began to feel sorry for these women, who in their short sightedness participate in numerous traditions that they don’t even realise the purpose or significance of, while at the same time miss out on wonderful opportunities & experiences, simply because it doesn’t appear in the latest issue of Bride to Be!
It got me thinking about the customs & traditions we were observing, where they came from & why we were following them. Was it because we felt we had too or because we truly wanted to?
So I decided to research customs & traditions and see why we do the things we do. We are so fortunate to have a wonderfully diverse group of family & close friends, perhaps we could honor a traditions that they bring, while forging some of our own at the same time.
Some of my favorite customs & traditions I have come across so far have been:
The White wedding dress: The white wedding dress has been traditional for many centuries, symbolizing hope and joy for the future
Tin Cans: Tying tin cans to the back of the newlywed’s car recalls the ancient tradition of making loud noise to frighten away evil spirits.
Groom boutonniere: Originates in medieval times when a knight wore his lady's colors (through flowers) as a statement of his love.
Exchanging rings: May be the oldest wedding tradition and therfore it’s origins are unclear. The ring’s circular shape represents perfection and never-ending love.
Bride stands on the left: When the groom fought off warriors who also wanted his bride, he would hold onto her with his left hand, while fighting them off with his sword in his right hand.
Diamond Engagement Rings: These lavish gifts were given by medieval Italians in the belief that the diamond was created in the Flames of Love.
First Dance: The tradition of a "first dance" represents the start of the bride and groom's new life together.
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