7 WEDDING TRADITIONS AND THEIR MEANING

Ever wondered why a man gets down on one knee to propose to a woman or why the bride stands to the left of the groom?

Here are 7 wedding traditions and their meaning

1. WHY MEN GET DOWN ON ONE KNEE TO PROPOSE

A man getting down on one knee to propose is deemed a sign of respect and surrender. The act signifies humility before the woman he wishes to marry while also acknowledging he’s surrendering his single life behind.

2. WHY DOES THE GROOM HAVE A BEST MAN?

This is a tradition that springs from Anglo-Saxon England. According to history, the groom takes along his most trusted and strongest friend (best man) to ensure his bride is protected during the ceremony.

3. WHY DOES THE BRIDE HAVE BRIDESMAIDS?

In modern times, the bridesmaids help with the planning of the wedding but the tradition of having bridesmaids started in Roman times. Bridesmaids were believed to act as decoys to evil spirits trying to harm the bride.

4. WHY DOES THE BRIDE STAND TO THE LEFT OF THE GROOM?

It was common during ancient times to have the bride kidnapped so the bride stood to the left of the groom so the groom could hold her with his left hand and draw his sword with his right hand, should other suitors try to kidnap her.

5. WHY DOES THE BRIDE THROW THE BOUQUET?

This stems from a French 14th century tradition. During ancient times, it used to be considered good luck to get a piece of the bride’s wedding dress. To avoid a ruined dress and being physically grabbed as the bride and groom were trying to run off on their honeymoon, brides began throwing bouquets to distract the guests. Guests were happy grabbing the bouquet as flowers were believed to bring romantic luck for the future.

6. WHY DO BRIDES WEAR A VEIL?

It is believed Roman brides wore bright veils for their wedding to ward off evil spirits.

7. WHY THROW CONFETTI DURING WEDDINGS?

Confetti is an Italian word used for a type of sugar almond tossed into the air during special occasions. In ancient Britain, throwing grains of rice at newlyweds was seen as a symbol of fertility.

Phil

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