Different Types Of Weddings
May 21st, 2008 by Kay Brown
Whilst there are many interpretations of a wedding, generally speaking they are still a religious or legal union between two individuals. Our concept of a marriage has seen many adjustments over the last few years. Whatever the background and history to marriage, it is still a legal union between two people; until the marriage certificate is signed by the bride, groom and witnesses, the ceremony is not finalized. The names bridegroom and bride extend around the world; after the ceremony they become a wife and a husband, respectively.
Weddings in a Church
Wedding traditions and customs vary greatly between cultures, ethnic groups, religions, countries, and social classes. Traditionally the church is the most popular venue, where the ceremony is presided over by a Christian priest. The traditional white wedding as we know it is really only a service that is popular in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland and some other Commonwealth countries.
Double Ceremonies
A rare type of marriage is where two separate couples decide to marry at the same time; this often happens where a person has a brother or sister that decides to tie the knot at the same time and it is not unheard of for two brothers to marry two sisters this way.
Marriages in Another Country
Marriages in foreign countries are called destination weddings where guests can arrive either just before the ceremony or actually travel with the couple; destination weddings automatically conjure up exotic countries but it could just as easily be a themed wedding in Las Vegas to qualify for that title.
Weekend Break Weddings
Some couples decide to have their wedding over the course of a weekend and this can ensure the occasion is less stressful for all concerned. Special activities, such as spa treatments and golf tournaments, are scheduled into the itinerary for guests’ enjoyment throughout the weekend. Lodging is usually at the same facility and couples often host a Sunday brunch for the weekend’s finale.
Ceremonies Online
Still in the early stages of evolution is the internet wedding where the couple is married online; planning is made easy however, with online guides that list reliable and friendly vendors. This can prove a useful tool where relatives and friends from around the world can see an online wedding take place in real time without actually being there!
Town Hall Services
Elected and appointed officials can carry out a marriage ceremony which is usually called a civil wedding. Religion doesn’t normally play a part in these ceremonies because they are purely a legal requirement. These services often take place in city halls, courthouses and other designated areas of town.
This article has only provided information on few types of weddings; there are actually many many more types through out the world, and some could be considered rather strange by our standards.
