Tradition states that a bride should do many things before her wedding day. It also says that on her wedding day she should wear something old (showing the ties to her family and past), something new (for her life to come with her husband), something borrowed (from someone who has had a successful marriage to pass on) and something blue (stands for faithfulness, loyalty and purity). These all represent different aspects of the bride’s life and how she will proceed with the marriage after her wedding day. These aspects of what the bride should wear on her wedding day are just the start if the tradition behind the whole day.
Sometimes things are taken out of context, and it’s difficult to understand where everything came from. Before you start planning the traditional elements to your wedding, you have to know the process and how this has changed throughout history. We’ve broken down the process of a traditional wedding, so you can associate the right steps and incorporate them into your big day. Tradition isn’t everything, and you don’t have to adhere to all the processes, but it’s nice to see some historical elements to a wedding often!
The Process of a Traditional Wedding
1. The Procession
One of the first steps in the traditional wedding process, it’s the point in which the wedding party walks down the aisle and takes their place at the ceremony. Both parties making their way down the aisle has traditionally symbolized that you come from different backgrounds. Processions differ according to religion, so it’s worth noting how your religion goes about this.
2. The Opening Remarks and Addressing the Couple
The officiant of the wedding will here welcome the guests to the wedding, you’ve probably heard it a thousand times over! They will also take a moment to emphasize the significance of the vows the couple is about to exchange and to remind them of their duties and roles during the marriage.
3. Exchanging Vows and Rings
You make your promises to each other and repeat ‘to have and to hold, for better or for worse’ then speak the ones you have both written. The exchange of rings will then happen.
4. The Pronouncement of Marriage
The officiant will make it official by pronouncing you, husband and wife.
5. The Kiss and Closing Remarks
The moment that everyone waits for during a wedding ceremony, the kiss! Your first kiss is so special as an official married couple, the officiant will then wrap things up with some kind words. This is also the time in which religious couples get blessed if they wish.
6. The Recessional
The opposite to the procession, the recessional is when you exit the venue together as newlyweds. This is then followed by a super fun wedding party.
Adding Unique Elements to Your Wedding Ceremony
To allow your ceremony to be even more special than mere tradition, pay attention to specific details and create a unique experience for your guests. Think about your wedding decoration and choose suitable/affordable dresses from great stores. JJ’s House is the perfect example of how to make your wedding clothing more beautiful and unique – they provide a customization service of their dresses that are still cost-effective. This is especially true for flower girl dresses.
Be Cost Effective
You don’t want to spend your whole life savings on one day, being cost-effective and budget-friendly may be the difference between a beautiful honeymoon destination and opting for an intimate country getaway. Try to reduce the price of clothing or aspects that can be cut such as getting cheap flower girl dresses or bridesmaid dresses. They’re only being worn for one day anyway!