Weddings

Weddings are traditional ceremonies where two people are united in marriage. Wedding traditions and customs vary greatly between cultures, ethnic groups, religions, countries, and social classes. Most wedding ceremonies involve an exchange of marriage vows by a couple, presentation of a gift (offering, rings, symbolic item, flowers, money), and a public proclamation of marriage by an authority figure or celebrant.

History of Weddings

The history of weddings dates back to ancient times. In many cultures, weddings were more than just a union between two people. They could be a union between two families, two businesses or even two countries. Many weddings involved an exchange of property, money, or some form of wealth.

Wedding Traditions

Wedding traditions vary greatly between cultures, religions, countries, and social classes. In some cultures, the bride and groom are expected to host a wedding reception, where they receive their guests. This is often followed by a wedding breakfast, in others, the wedding is followed by a wedding dinner, and in others, a wedding reception is held.

Wedding Attire

The choice of wedding attire often depends on the culture and religion of the wedding participants. In Western cultures, brides often choose a white wedding dress, which was made popular by Queen Victoria in the 19th century. In eastern cultures, brides often choose red to symbolize auspiciousness.

Wedding Ceremony

The wedding ceremony is often followed by a reception or wedding breakfast, in which the rituals may include speeches from the groom, best man, father of the bride and possibly the bride, the newlyweds' first dance as a couple, and the cutting of an elegant wedding cake.

See Also

• Marriage
• Wedding reception
• Wedding vows
• Wedding attire
• Wedding ceremony

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