Franklin Dean
There are many traditions and terms associated with weddings that are commonly used and recognised. Weddings are a type of ceremony in which two people are united in marriage. Wedding traditions vary across cultures, ethnicities, races, religions, and countries, but there are some commonalities. For example, most wedding ceremonies involve an exchange of marriage vows, gifts, and a public proclamation of marriage. Wedding ceremonies are also often followed by a reception. Music, poetry, prayers, or readings from religious texts or literature are commonly incorporated, as well as superstitious customs. There is also wedding terminology that is unique to the planning and execution of weddings, such as place cards and escort cards.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wedding type | Sequel wedding, destination wedding, elopement, intimate wedding, micro wedding, black tie |
| Wedding terminology | Fiancé(e), MOH (Maid or Matron of Honor), escort cards, place cards, event designer, palette, engagement photos |
| Wedding customs | Exchange of marriage vows, presentation of a gift (e.g. rings, flowers, dress), public proclamation of marriage, superstitious customs, white wedding dress and veil, wedding reception, music, poetry, prayers, readings from religious texts |
| Wedding traditions | Bride carrying a bouquet, tiered wedding cakes, flower girl, groom veiling his bride, bride and groom's hands tied together, tossing rice at newlyweds |
| Wedding cake types | Buttercream, fondant, ganache, royal icing |
| Wedding photography | Golden hour, hard-stop |
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Wedding attire
Wedding Dress Code
The dress code for a wedding is usually specified in the invitation. It can range from formal or black-tie to more casual or themed attire. Black-tie weddings, for example, typically involve formal attire such as tuxedos or evening gowns. In contrast, a beach wedding might call for more casual or beach-themed outfits.
Cultural and Religious Traditions
Different cultures and religions have their own wedding attire traditions. For example, in Western cultures, the bride often wears a white dress and veil, a tradition popularized by Queen Victoria. In Hindu weddings, the bride and groom exchange flower garlands, and in Celtic weddings, their hands may be tied together to symbolize their union. Orthodox Jewish weddings have distinct traditions, such as the bride remaining silent under the chuppah, a four-poled canopy, and only the bride receiving a ring.
Wedding Party Attire
The wedding party, including the bride and groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, maid of honour (MOH), and best man, often coordinate their attire. The bride typically stands out with a distinct dress, veil, and bouquet. The MOH may wear a slightly different dress or carry a unique bouquet. Groomsmen and the best man often dress similarly to the groom, and bridesmaids may wear matching or complementary dresses.
Seasonal and Location Considerations
The season and location of the wedding can influence attire choices. For example, a winter wedding might call for warmer fabrics and colours, while a summer wedding could feature lighter, more breathable outfits. A destination wedding in a different country might incorporate local fashion or cultural elements into the attire.
Personal Style and Preferences
Ultimately, wedding attire should reflect the couple's personal style and preferences. Some couples may choose to incorporate their favourite colours, cultural traditions, or unique twists to make their wedding attire memorable and meaningful.
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Wedding cake
The tradition of a tiered wedding cake is said to have originated in ancient Rome, where a bread cake was stacked as high as possible to ensure a prosperous future for the couple. The bride and groom would attempt to kiss over the top of the cake, and if they succeeded without knocking it over, it was believed to bring good luck.
Today, wedding cakes can be personalised to the couple's taste and style. They can be decorated with flowers, edible gold leaf, or personalised cake toppers. Some couples choose to incorporate cultural traditions or family recipes into their wedding cake, making it a unique part of their celebration.
The cutting of the wedding cake is often a special moment during the reception. It symbolises the first task performed together as a married couple and is usually done by the bride and groom together, with the groom's right hand placed over the bride's. This custom is said to symbolise the couple's commitment to providing for each other and their guests.
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Wedding music
Music is an important part of weddings, with couples often using it to mark three parts of the service: the entrance, signing of the register, and the exit. The music played at weddings is usually left completely up to the couple, but there are some traditional songs that are often used. For instance, the "Bridal Chorus" from Lohengrin by Richard Wagner, commonly known as "Here Comes the Bride", is often used as the processional. However, Wagner is said to have been antisemitic, so this song is usually avoided at Jewish weddings. Other processional alternatives include Johann Pachelbel's Canon in D, and Bob Marley's One Love, sometimes performed by a steel drum band.
The choice of music for your wedding will likely depend on the style of music you enjoy as a couple. For instance, you might opt for a rock 'n' roll festival theme, with nostalgic and happy songs, or a country music theme, with a mix of classic country and pop. You could also go for a vintage theme, with old-school romantic numbers, or a more modern pop ballad vibe.
If you want to add a unique twist to your wedding, you could incorporate some alternative music styles, such as Scottish wedding songs, or Broadway love songs. Or, if you're an emo couple, you could play some heartfelt emotional tunes. For couples who want to get everyone dancing, a line dance song is a great option, and for those who want to inject some fun, there are plenty of funny wedding songs to choose from.
The type of musician or band you choose will also influence the vibe of your wedding. You could go for a live band, a DJ, or background musicians, such as a jazz band, steel band, acoustic duo, roaming band, saxophonist, guitarist, pianist, string quartet, or harpist.
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Wedding photography
The role of the wedding photographer often begins with the engagement photos. These are becoming increasingly common and are a great way for the couple to get comfortable in front of the camera and with their photographer. The photos are often used for save-the-date cards and wedding websites.
On the wedding day itself, there are several key moments that are traditionally photographed. The bride and groom will often want photos of the wedding party getting ready, capturing the fun and excitement of the preparations. This is a good time for detail shots of the wedding attire, shoes, jewellery, flowers, and any other special details.
The ceremony is a key part of the day and there are several traditions that are often photographed. The processional, where the wedding party walks down the aisle, is a popular moment to capture. The exchange of vows and rings is another important moment, as is the first kiss as a married couple. The recessional, where the newlyweds walk back down the aisle, is also a key moment.
After the ceremony, there is usually a celebration, whether it is a small reception or a large party. The newlyweds will often want photos of the decorations, the cake, and the first dance. The photographer will also capture the guests enjoying themselves, as well as any special traditions or customs that are being followed.
Finally, there is often a photoshoot with just the newlyweds, where they can relax and enjoy some time together away from the celebrations. This is a great opportunity to capture romantic portraits, often during the "golden hour", the time just before sunset, when the light is soft and flattering.
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Wedding planning
Wedding Terminology
Understanding the wedding lingo can be helpful when communicating with vendors and planning your big day. Some commonly used terms include:
- Engagement photos: These are taken before the wedding to document the couple's engagement and help them get comfortable with their wedding photographer.
- Palette: This refers to the selection of colours chosen for the wedding, influencing everything from flowers to invitations.
- Escort cards and place cards: Escort cards direct guests to their assigned dinner tables, while place cards specify where they sit at the table.
- MOH: Stands for Maid or Matron of Honor, the woman (usually a close friend or family member) who stands by the bride's side and may plan the bachelorette party.
- Golden Hour: A photographer's term for the time before sunset, considered ideal for wedding photos.
Wedding Traditions and Customs
Weddings are full of traditions, and you can choose which ones to include in your celebration. Some common traditions include:
- Exchange of Vows and Rings: Most weddings involve an exchange of marriage vows and rings, symbolizing the couple's commitment.
- Special Wedding Garments: The bride often wears a white dress and veil, a tradition popularized by Queen Victoria. The groom also typically wears a special outfit.
- Music and Readings: Music, poetry, prayers, or readings from religious texts are commonly incorporated into the ceremony. The "Bridal Chorus" by Richard Wagner, also known as "Here Comes the Bride," is a popular processional song.
- Superstitions: Some couples incorporate superstitious customs, such as the tradition of the bride carrying a bouquet of flowers down the aisle, which originated as a way to ward off evil spirits.
- Rice Throwing: In some cultures, rice is thrown at the newlyweds to wish them fertility and prosperity.
- Something Old, Something New: This tradition is derived from an Old English rhyme, where "something old" represents the couple's past lives, and "something new" symbolizes their happy future.
Wedding Size and Location
Decide on the size and location of your wedding. Consider whether you prefer an intimate wedding with a small guest list or a larger celebration. You might also choose a destination wedding, where the wedding takes place in a different location than where the couple lives.
Wedding Vendors and Services
Select a venue that aligns with your vision and offers the necessary services. Some venues provide in-house services such as catering, floral arrangements, and event planning. Work with experienced vendors, including caterers, musicians, photographers, and wedding planners, to bring your vision to life.
Remember, your wedding day should reflect your unique style and personality. Feel free to incorporate traditions that resonate with you and create new ones that hold special meaning for you and your partner.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding traditions vary across different cultures, but some common Western traditions include the exchange of marriage vows, the presentation of gifts or rings, and a public proclamation of marriage. Other traditions include the bride wearing a white dress and veil, something old and something new, a flower girl, and a wedding cake.
Some commonly used wedding terms include fiancé(e), MOH (Maid or Matron of Honor), best man, groomsmen, and bridesmaids. Other terms include the palette, escort cards, place cards, and the hard stop.
Engagement photos are becoming increasingly common, as they allow couples to get comfortable in front of the camera and with their photographer. The "Golden Hour", or the time just before sunset, is also commonly used for wedding photos as the natural light is ideal.
The music played at weddings is usually left up to the couple, but some common choices include the "Wedding March", the "Bridal Chorus" ("Here Comes the Bride"), and Johann Pachelbel's "Canon in D". Contemporary melodies such as Bob Marley's "One Love" are also sometimes chosen.
