White wedding

The term now also encapsulates the entire Western wedding routine, especially in the Christian religious tradition,[4] which generally includes a church service during which the marriage begins, followed by a reception.

“Color Wheel Pro” describes[5] white in association with light, goodness, innocence, purity and virginity.

[9] Because of the limitations of laundering techniques before the later part of the 20th century, white dresses provided an opportunity for conspicuous consumption.

[3] Etiquette books then began to turn the practice into a tradition and the white gown soon became a popular symbol of status that also carried "a connotation of innocence and virginal purity.

"[8] The story put out about the wedding veil was that decorous brides were naturally too timid to show their faces in public until they were married.

[13] Traditional weddings require, in addition to the bride and groom, a marriage officiant, which is a minister, priest, pastor, vicor, rabbi, imam, or civil officer who is authorized to perform marriages and will read out of a Bible, Torah, Quran, or Civil document.

Some couples make a ceremony of having their grandparents, step-parents, and parents escorted to their seats immediately before the wedding procession begins.

Depending on the country, her age and situation, and her personal preferences, the bride may walk alone or be escorted by her father, both of her parents, one or more relatives she wishes to honor, or the groom.

The ceremony might include the playing of a prelude, the singing of hymns, and Bible readings, as well as Holy Communion in accordance with the Christian marriage liturgy of the church at which the wedding is held, e.g. Lutheran, Catholic, Presbyterian, Anglican, Methodist, Baptist, Mormon, Calvinist, Unitarian, Protestant, Orthodox, etc.

Afterward, guests may cheer the departure of the couple from the church by throwing flower petals, confetti, birdseed, or rice over them.

Miniature containers of bubbles are often provided to guest to blow at the couple instead of throwing the previously mentioned items.

Some families then contrive a series of arranged dances between the newlyweds and their parents, or other members of the wedding party, with guests expected to watch the performances.

From ancient Rome through the Middle Ages in Europe, wheat kernels were thrown at the bride in a wish for affluence; now it is typical to throw rice, as a symbol of fertility, at the couple as they depart.

The photographic styles of capturing weddings continues to evolve from posed somber expressions to candid moments showing emotion and joy.