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A wedding ceremony is a rite-of-passage full of rituals and symbolism. Have you ever wondered where these rituals come from and why we do these things? Then read on.
The ceremony processional
The ceremony starts with the processional, the formal entering of the bridal party.
Many couples have only the ladies walk in during the processional (with the men coming out with the groom and officiant), however having the entire bridal party enter as couples is perfectly acceptable. It's your preference. The processional dates back centuries of years ago when a wedding ceremony was preceded by dancing (celebrating the joy of live). Through the years the dancing evolved into the modern processional.
Bridesmaids dressing alike and the white wedding gown
Centuries ago, all of the women, including the bride, dressed alike, not just the bridesmaids. This was to confuse the evil spirits who lurked around, intent on causing harm and ill will to the bride. The traditional white wedding gown is worn thanks to Queen Victoria in 1840. She was the first to wear a white satin and lace dress for her wedding. Today, while most brides still opt for the white gown, bridesmaids' styles have significantly changed, allowing them to dress in complimentary styles, yet giving them, and the bride, more options to fit each person personality, figure and pocket book.
With this ring
During the ceremony, couples exchange rings. The symbolism of the ring dates back to the ancient Greeks. The ring is round and there is never ending, and represents the couples' love for each other. The exchange of rings dates back thousands of years when people would seal a contract in such a fashion.
Sealed with a kiss
Who can forget the kiss when the couple are pronounced husband and wife? We can thank the Ancient Romans for this as they sealed contracts with a kiss. Also, it was believed that as a couple kiss, their breath intermingle, therefore giving each other a little bit of their souls.
Decorating the getaway car
Tying shoes to the back of the getaway car dates back to ancient Assyrian, Hebrew and Egyptian cultures where exchanging shoes sealed an agreement or contract. Tin cans were once use, as it was thought that the clanking sound would scare away any evil spirits.
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Source by Jean Neuhart
