Engagements have always been a time of preparation for brides, grooms, and families. There is so much to be arranged and decided for both the wedding and the couple’s lives together after the ceremony. But it all starts with the engagement.
Engagement Ring History
The engagement or betrothal ring dates back to the days of marriage by purchase. It served as both a down payment on the bride and a symbol of the honorable intentions of the groom to be. In some cultures, the ring was a three-part item. The bride to be, the groom, and a witness each wore a piece until the wedding day. At the ceremony, all three pieces were reassembled on the bride’s finger as her wedding ring.
Arranged Marriage Tradition
In many cultures, a matchmaker arranged most weddings. For example, in China, the matchmaker determined if the astrological signs of the couple were compatible. In Uganda, the bride’s elder brother and paternal uncle usually spoke to prospective grooms and negotiated for the family.
Wedding Contract Tradition
In many European cultures a formal contract was created and after this contract was sealed, neither the bride nor the groom could be seen with or talking to other suitors. Once this formal contract was made, if either the bride or the groom changed his or her mind about the marriage, the other party could claim half of his or her property. Formal engagement ceremonies, common in many cultures, imposed responsibilities. These customs grew into what we now know as Breach of Promise lawsuits.
Gift Registry and Bridal Shower History
The precursor to today’s gift registries and bridal showers was a process where brides went “collecting.” In this tradition, the bride to be was accompanied by an older married man (the symbol of a long-lasting marriage). He wore a top hat and carried an umbrella (a symbol of shelter). They would go from house to house where the bride received her gift and her escort received a drink. Today’s version of this collecting process is handled by bridal showers and gift registries.
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