Wedding Traditions

A wedding is the ceremony in in the binding of two people, legally and spiritually. Across cultures, a wedding ceremony varies from one ceremony to another. Throughout history, wedding ceremony also evolved. The social status of the bride and groom also influence the wedding ceremony. However, there are some common elements of weddings that transcend time, social status and cultural differences.

Common wedding practices across cultures

Among the wedding practices that are common to some wedding ceremonies are the exchange of wedding vows. The exchange of wedding ring is another practice that also exists even in ancient civilizations. Although, the origin of the practice of exchanging of rings is still a mystery until today. The reception after the wedding is also among the practices that can be traced back to the past. Among the activities during the reception are the bride and groom's first dance as man and wife.

History of the traditional white wedding dress

Way back in the past, the bride's wedding gown is not white as it is now. Brides used to wear colourful dresses on their wedding day. The colours served as a symbol of the high social status of the bride. It was during the wedding of Mary, Queen of Scots, that white was first used as the colour for a wedding dress. However, it was only during the wedding of Queen Victoria that white wedding dresses became a trend.

Today, in other cultures, brides still use their traditional coloured wedding dresses. Although there are also many brides who prefer to wear the western wedding dress, and only wear their traditional dress after the wedding ceremony.

Wedding dress today

Today, the western style wedding dress is still popular. However, there are slight variations in colours of wedding gowns. There are already gowns of ecru and cream colours. Wedding gowns also become more revealing these days. Aside from the gown of the bride, other fashionable dresses are those by bride's maids; wedding can now actually be closely associated with fashion.

Planning a wedding today is easier because of the specialized services one can hire. There are even wedding planners whom a couple could hire to arrange everything concerning the wedding. People also have options where to celebrate their wedding. The venue for most wedding is not limited to the church, many couples prefer to have their wedding venue outdoor such as in beaches or in gardens.