Customs
Here at The Bridal Collection, we find the origins of wedding customs to be intriguing.
Did you know that:
The kiss at a significant moment in the wedding ceremony dates back to the Roman Empire? At that time, the betrothal ceremony consisted of a kiss and the exchange of rings, with the kiss being the actual legal bond.
Rice symbolizes the hope that the couple will be as fruitful as the earth?
In France, the guests shower the bride and groom with wheat and in Morocco with raisings, figs and dates?
In the Orient, a red slipper on the roof indicates that a honeymoon is in progress or that casting a shoe after the bride indicates a transfer of authority to the new husband?
Did you know that the old English rhyme that advises the bride what to wear on her wedding day has its roots in Anglo Saxon traditions? "Something old" is a sign of continuity with the past while the "something new" symbolizes a new life with a future of plenty.
The "something borrowed" is based on the belief that happiness can rub off, so if the bride wears an item borrowed from a happily married friend, her marriage will be a happy one as well.
"Something blue" is associated with purity, fidelity and love. Ancient Israeli brides trimmed their robes with blue ribbons to denote modesty and purity.
Because the rhyme originally included the line, "and a lucky sixpence for the shoe," brides to this day often tuck a coin into their shoe or slipper for extra good luck.
12 to 18 Months
- Select location and reserve dates of ceremony and reception
- Begin compiling guest list
- Purchase your gown and accessories
9 to 12 Months
- Register at bridal registries
- Choose bridesmaid dresses and accessories
- Select and book florists
- Select and book photographer
- Select and book videographer
4 to 6 Months
- Select men's formalwear
- Order wedding invitations and stationery
- Finish compiling guest list
- Check marriage license requirements
- Select baker and order wedding cake
- Reserve accommodations for out of town guests
- Arrange wedding day transportation
2 to 4 Months
- Start addressing invitations
- Confirm ceremony plans with officiant
- Plan rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
- Arrange for decorations
- Finalize honeymoon plans
- Plan ceremony music with musicians
1 to 2 Months
- Mail invitations to arrive 4-6 weeks before wedding
- Confirm details with all contracted services
- Have final gown fitting
- Have final fittings for attendants
- Get marriage license and blood tests (if necessary)
- Purchase gifts for attendants
- Get your accessories ready: ring pillow, candles, guest book, etc.
- Maintain record of gifts received and mail thank you notes immediately
- Confirm pre-nuptial dinner arrangements
2 Weeks
- Confirm rehearsal time and date with all wedding party members
- Arrange name and address changes on bank accounts, credit cards, drivers license
- Contact guests who have not yet R.S.V.P.'d
- Keep up with thank you notes
1 Week
- Provide final guest count to caterer
- Plan seating arrangements
- Confirm honeymoon reservations, pick up tickets
- Pick up wedding attire and check fit
Wedding Day
- Rings and marriage license
- If pictures are being taken before the ceremony, the entire wedding party should be ready two hours before
- Bring all accessories and an emergency kit including spare stockings, sewing needs, safety pins, etc.
- Give officiant's fee to best man for presentation after the ceremony
