The client’s wedding, an event steeped in centuries of traditions and customs, brings together unique histories and stories of love sought and found. Originally, weddings were simple agreements between two families, an alliance for wealth, power, and lineage, evolved over millennia to become celebrations of love, fondness, and commitment shared in front of dear ones.
The first recorded evidence of the celebration of matrimony dates back to ancient Mesopotamia. The evolution of this momentous occasion has been significantly shaped by religious, cultural, and social norms of different civilizations. From the Roman’s confarreatio, a highly solemn form of marriage, to the Chinese tea ceremonies, and the vibrant Indian weddings, the global celebration of weddings reflects a dazzling array of cultural diversity.
In the past, the bride and groom’s parents traditionally arranged weddings, but the 18th century saw a shift to the trend of couples choosing their love. The most significant change in the history of weddings observed during the 20th century: the rise of the love marriage, in which a couple’s personal choice, affection, and consent valued more than societal or familial approval.
Today, traditions continue to be a crucial part of the wedding celebration. However, contemporary weddings are rapidly evolving, reflecting societal changes and the influence of modern living. The advent of technology has also left its indelible mark, with online wedding planning, digital invitations, and live-streamed ceremonies becoming increasingly common.
Despite all these changes, the essence of weddings remains the same—a devoted promise of lifelong companionship between two individuals. Each client’s wedding, therefore, is a reflection of their interpretation and personification of this historical and cherished celebration of love.