Special Section

Would You Clear These Customs?

V1 Staff |

Handfasting, the act of tying the bride’s and groom’s hands together, is an
ancient Celtic custom that coined the phrase “tying the knot.”

During the Victorian era, the white dress was meant to symbolize purity, not virginity. The veil was meant to symbolize virginity.

The origin of giving a toast began in France, when a small piece of toast was literally dropped into the couple’s wine to ensure a healthy life.

The traditional Bedouin wedding dish involves cooked eggs stuffed in a fish, stuffed in a chicken, stuffed in a sheep, stuffed into a whole camel. Take that, Turducken.

In Romania, the musicians also function as guides through the wedding rituals and moderate any conflicts that may arise during what can be a long, alcohol-fueled party over a period of nearly 48 hours.

Uninhibited kissing is more than encouraged in Swedish tradition. If the bride or groom steps out, guests line up for a turn to kiss the newlywed.

In India, the grooms’ shoes are the hub of mischief. While the groom’s family tries to guard his shoes (which he has removed for the ceremony), the bride’s family tries to steal them.  If the robbery is a success, the bride’s family can name a price before giving them back.