Traditions

Traditions: Wedding History

Matrimony has existed since ancient times, in different forms which reflect the customs and values of different societies. The Sumerians, the Assyrians and the Babylonians saw marriage solely for economic and social reasons. In Ancient Rome marriage was seen as a form of social climbing to pass from one castle to another, and was also
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Traditions: The Grand Exit

Gone are the days of tossing rice at couples as they depart. Many venues don’t even allow rice tossing any longer. Here are some fun alternatives to that tradition. Just be sure to clear them with the reception venue before deciding on an exit. Substitute birdseed – Seed will have the same symbolism as rice, but will be
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Traditions: Choosing the Wedding Date and Time

The wedding and the events leading up to the ceremony are steeped in ancient traditions. The month and day of a bride’s wedding was considered a very important decision. Many followed this rhyme when choosing their wedding month: Marry when the year is new, he’ll be loving, kind and true. When February birds do mate,
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Traditions: Weddings, a History – Part 2

Wedding Types A same-sex wedding is a ceremony in which two people of the same sex are married. This event may be legally documented as a marriage or another legally recognized partnership such as a civil union. Where such partnerships are not legally recognized, the wedding may be a religious or symbolic ceremony designed to provide an
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Ceremony: Unity Candle or Sand Ceremony?

After the bride and groom have exchanged their wedding vows, a majority of the couples then proceed with the lighting of the Unity Candle.  This has been a tradition for several years and symbolizes the two becoming one.  The bride and groom each take a pre-lit taper candle and then light a larger candle, extinguishing
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Traditions: Weddings, a History – Part 1

A wedding is the ceremony in which two people are united in marriage or a similar institution. Wedding traditions and customs vary greatly between cultures, ethnic groups, religions, countries, and social classes. Most wedding ceremonies involve an exchange of wedding vows by the couple and a public proclamation of marriage by an authority figure or leader. Special wedding garments are often worn, and
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Traditions: Origins of the Honeymoon

Most people know what the honeymoon is but do not know its origins.  There are a few different thoughts on how the honeymoon came to be. In ancient times, many first marriages were not by choice; they were actually by capture.  When early men felt that it was time to take a wife, they quite
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