As today's brides and grooms emerge from a church, friends and relatives toss rice to ensure a fruitful union. But imagine a wedding reception during which guests heaved pieces of wedding cake at the newlyweds. That was once a wedding tradition - one of many strange and sometimes amusing rituals.
Other folklore about the cake: The bride must cut the first piece or the couple will be childless and single women who place a slice under their pillows will dream of their true love.
The ring, a symbol of eternal love, was also once considered the groom's payment for his wife. The bride was the property first of parents and then of her husband. The ring was a token of purchase.
The placement of the ring is no accident. Placing it on the left hand denoted a woman's subjection. The ring on the third finger was believed to press a vein which flows to the heart.
The choice for the ring finger also has practical origins – each of the other fingers can be fully extended alone while the other digits are folded, but the third finger cannot be extended on its own, making it the safest finger for a ring.
Internationally, time-tested ceremonies continue to be a part of weddings.
Germany – As the couple kneels, the groom may kneel on the hem of the bride's gown to show his authority. The bride may then assert herself by stepping on his foot when she rises.
India – During a Hindu ceremony, a gold ornament on a yellow string, known as a thali, is tied around the bride's neck. She wares it constantly after the wedding, its three knots reminding her of duty to her parents, husband and sons.
Indonesia – The bride's father sits on a ceremonial wedding couch and the bride and groom then sit on his lap. The brides mother asks him which is heavier. He replies that they are the same weight, signifying that the parents will love the bride and groom equally.
Spain – The groom gives his bride 13 coins to show his ability to support her. The number represents Jesus Christ and his 12 apostles. During the wedding, the bride carries the coins in a purse. Unusual as some of these ceremonies may seem, wedding rites are grounded with good intent. They symbolize wishes of love, happiness and good fortune for the nuptial couple.
* Source: Bride's – And Your Home magazine
