One of the more interesting historical engagement customs was termed “flouncing”. It originated in England and was basically an early betrothal party. It was held for the couple to meet each other’s friends and the friends of both families.

At the “flouncing” a formal contract was established and after this contract was sealed, neither the bride nor the groom could be seen with or talking to other suitors. Once this formal declaration was made, if either the bride or the groom to be changed his or her mind about the marriage, the other could claim half of his or her property.

In China, a betrothal was a serious family obligation. If an engaged man died before the wedding, his intended bride was “treated like a widow”. (Source: The Bride’s Book of Etiquette)

Before there were department stores, jewelry and gift stores, and before the advent of bridal showers, brides went “collecting”. In fact, Finnish brides-to-be were considered “snobbish” if they didn’t go from door-to-door collecting their gifts in a large bag. 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, which symbolized shelter. The bride received her gift and her “escort” received a drink at each stop. Today’s version of this gift collecting is handled for Gift Registries at many stores and by bridal showers. However, the symbol of long lasting marriage – the old married man and his umbrella – hasn’t survived into the 21^st century.

For the background on more wedding traditions, talk with one of the team members at FAO Events by calling 703.222.5912. Our experienced consultants can help you find a way to incorporate history into your contemporary ceremony and/or reception.

Engagements have always been about a time of preparation for the bride and the groom. There is much to be decided – where to live, meet the families and what to select to furnish a new home. While the needs are similar, there are many different cultural customs to help couples make those decisions.

The engagement ring, or betrothal ring, dates back to the dates 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 came in three parts. The bride-to-be wore one, the groom-to-be wore one and a witness wore the third piece until the wedding day. At the ceremony all three pieces were reassembled on the bride’s finger as her wedding ring.

The bridal shower traces its history back to Holland where – legend has it – a young maiden fell in love with a poor miller. Her father forbade the marriage, thereby denying her the traditional bride’s dowry. So the miller’s friends “showered” her with gifts to help the young couple set up housekeeping.

In many cultures, a matchmaker arranged most weddings. For example, in China, the matchmaker determined if the astrological signs were compatible. In Uganda, the bride’s elder brother and paternal uncle usually spoke to prospective groom and negotiated for the family. While those customs seem strange in America, it might be fun to find a way to honor someone who introduced the couple, or someone who was a very supportive friend with a special place at the wedding, a small gift, corsage, or a thank you toast at the reception.

Need help coming up with a special touch on your wedding? The team at FAO Events - 703.222.5912 - is ready to give you ideas to honor those who have supported you and your fiance!