Weddings are beautiful times when two people come together in celebration of love. Modern ceremonies often incorporate thousands-of-years-old customs. These traditions give us connection, meaning and ties to the past.
Here are some examples of these traditions that a Mississauga wedding Officiant sometimes assists couples in including in their ceremonies.
- Exchanging Rings
The practice of exchanging rings dates back to ancient Egypt, more than 4,000 years ago. Rings also symbolized love and commitment, the circular shape of the ring representing eternity.
Even now, couples still trade rings during the vows. The best wedding officiant Canada also makes this tradition stand out by telling the story behind it.
- Wearing a White Dress
Wearing a white wedding dress first became common in ancient Rome, when white symbolized purity and joy. Today, many brides wear white on their wedding day.
In Canada, many people honour this tradition while making the wedding much more personal to the couple.
- The Bridal Veil
In ancient Greece and Rome, brides donned veils to keep harmful spirits away during the wedding. The veil also showed modesty. Even today, many brides opt for veils to enhance their beauty and as a symbol of tradition.
- Throwing Rice or Confetti
Rice or grains were once thrown at newlyweds to ensure they’d be blessed with good luck and prosperity. This tradition is still maintained, and nowadays, confetti, petals, or bubbles are used by the newlyweds.
This joyful moment is often planned with the help of a marriage officiant in Mississauga who can ensure that it aligns with the couple’s vision and provides a personalized wedding for you.
- The Wedding Cake
The Ancient Romans. In ancient Rome, the wedding cake tradition began with wheat cakes that were broken over the bride’s head to bring good fortune. Weddings often have a couple cutting a cake together to serve guests.
- Carrying a Bouquet
European brides used to carry flowers or herbs to keep evil spirits away and bring good fortune. Bouquets are a festive element at weddings today. The family and friends usually help the couple choose flowers that suit their style and make this tradition relevant.
- The First Dance
The first dance can be traced back to medieval Europe, where it served two purposes: to symbolize marital unity and celebrate the marriage. Now, couples pick memorable songs to play during their first dance. Wedding officiant services usually add these in the script, so it isn’t awkward and seems personal and heartfelt.
- Giving Away the Bride
Historically, the bride’s father “gave her away” to the groom as a sign of family approval. These days, this practice is more about encouragement and love. A marriage officiant in Mississauga can add a unique twist by involving family in custom weddings.
Final Thoughts
Keeping these ancient customs alive makes weddings timeless and helps to maintain a link with the past. A Mississauga wedding officiant can help you to blend these rich traditions with more modern ones to create your ideal ceremony.
From giving rings to cake cutting, weddings know how to make everything feel special. Couples team up with the best wedding officiant in Canada to honour their love for themselves so that it feels authentic to them.