1. Only virgins should wear a white
wedding gown.
White dresses became popular only after Queen
Victoria wore one in the 1840's. White
symbolizes different things in different
cultures: joy, fertility, or virginity.
anyone can wear a white wedding gown.
2. If you don't wear
a diamond ring, you aren't officially engaged.
Nonsense, an engagement is official as soon as a
couple declare their intention to marry.
No ring is needed, and it needn't be a diamond.
Paper cigar bands have even filled in quite
nicely for some couples.
3. The brides
family always pays for the wedding.
Here's good news for the bride's family:
Tradition once dictated that they paid for the
whole enchilada, but not anymore. These
days, couples are paying for all or part of the
wedding themselves, and any relatives may chip
in.
4. A wedding
reception must include a meal.
A wedding reception is a celebration, and not
every celebration includes a huge meal.
For an informal wedding or an intimate
late-night gathering, a wedding cake and simple
refreshments are fine.
5. You can't say no to
being a bridesmaid.
Sure you can! An invitation to be a
bridesmaid is an honor, but it also carries a
price tag. The commitment involves time
and often the cost of wedding attire and
transportation to the wedding. If this is
a financial burden, it's appropriate to say,
"thank you, I'm honored, but it's just not
possible for me right now. May I
participate in another way, perhaps helping with
the wedding planning? A thoughtful bride
will understand and not feel rejected. |
