The custom of bridal gowns can be traced back to the Victorian era. The wedding dress worn by the bride is related to "something old, something new, something borrowed and something white". Because the past is related to the bride's family and her past life. New things represent the bride's future happiness, good luck and success in her new life. Wearing borrowed things when getting married can bring good luck to marriage. This can be a wedding dress, a handkerchief and a piece of jewelry. White things are considered as a symbol of purity and loyalty.
There are two explanations about the custom of the bride wearing a wedding dress. First, in the era of arranged marriage, the groom should cover the bride's face before formally marrying her at the wedding, so that when the groom sees the bride clearly, even if he doesn't like her appearance, it is too late. Another explanation is that the bride wears a wedding dress to avoid being hurt by evil spirits wandering in the air on the wedding day.
The custom of the groom carrying the bride across the threshold originated in Roman times. At that time, people thought that it would bring bad luck if the bride stumbled when she entered the threshold of her new home on the first day, and such a thing could be avoided by holding the bride across the threshold.
It is generally believed that the custom of wearing a ring when getting married began in the 7th century. At the wedding ceremony at that time, the priest touched the index finger of his left hand in sequence and said, "In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit", just touching the ring finger.
The bride's habit of carrying flowers originated in ancient times. People think that fragrant flowers or spices can drive away evil spirits, bad luck and diseases. In Victorian times, when lovers expressed their different feelings by sending flowers, flowers had more meanings. For example, apple blossoms represent "better things are coming"; Red roses stand for "I love you"; White roses represent "purity"; Don't forget me is "true love and memories".
As for the bride standing to the left of the groom, it is very interesting. In ancient times, it was common to rob the bride. While protecting the future bride with his left hand, the groom has to free his right hand and use his sword to defeat and drive away other people who want to take her as his wife.
Although people are used to these customs today, it is interesting to learn about these ancient cultural traditions.
After the western wedding
When watching wedding scenes in western movies, I always admire the scene of the couple walking through the forest and getting into the convertible after the wedding. I read an article recently, only to know that there are still many places to pay attention to.
At the end of the ceremony, the priest congratulated the newlyweds. The organ began to play the exit music. The bride took the bouquet from the bridesmaid. If you are wearing a veil, you should open it at this time. If the decision has been made, the bride and groom kiss. The bride, with flowers in her right hand, turned around with the groom. Either the bride's left hand passes through the groom's right arm, or they walk down the steps arm in arm. Flower girl goes with the boy with the ring, the bridesmaid and the best man. Then, the best man and the guide, followed by two people. If it is winter, before the ceremony, the tour guide or the best man will put on the coat for the groom in the dressing room, so that it is not necessary to pick up the clothes after the ceremony. At the gate, someone prepared a coat for the bride.
Although you go alone when you go in, the best man can go with the guide when you come out. This is symbolic, which means following the example of the bride and groom. Come alone when you come, and go together when you leave.
During the ceremony, the photographer left behind the church can now take pictures of the happy couple as they return along the corridor.
The car is waiting at the entrance. If a welcome queue is formed at the wedding reception, the best man can help the newlyweds get on the bride's car at this time. This car goes first, then the best man's, then the bride's parents', and finally the groom's parents'. If you don't rent a limousine, the best man is the driver of the newlyweds.
The topic first returned to the church. As soon as the exit ceremony was over, two tour guides went back, first the mother of the bride and then the mother of the groom to the door. If the mother of the bride and groom prefers to go with their husbands, they can do so and go out with the guide who comes to accompany them. At most weddings, only two couples' mothers accompany them. And their husbands go out with them accompanied by other women. Keep the others in their seats and go by themselves. From front row to back row. When the ribbon is taken off, the guests can leave their seats, and the guests before and after can walk together. If the priest's fee has not been paid, the best man can go back to the church to finish it.
Accompany the parents of the newlyweds to leave, take off the ribbons, guide them to leave, and rush to the reception to help take pictures. Their cars or vehicles should be parked in convenient places to avoid being blocked by departing guests.