WEDDINGS
Keen to know the history of your bridal party, of who does what and how they came to do it? Sara Whatley discovers the evolution of wedding personnel
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WHO’S WHO BEST MAN Back when grooms sometimes had to kidnap their brides from her family if they disapproved of the union, the best man was essential protection for the groom. If vengeful family members came looking for him, he had to be the ‘best’ man, as in the best with a sword or other weapon in order to keep the
groom as safe as possible. The best man also had to keep close by the bride’s side to keep her from escaping if she was an unwilling bride, or to prevent other potential suitors taking her. The role of the best man today has changed, but the element of support and protection for the groom still
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eddings are steeped in tradition, many of which have misty roots and no clear history. Suggestions of where these traditions come from have been gathered and told by many, then handed down through successive generations. Here we look at the traditions of the wedding party. Traditions came about for good reason, but it’s important to remember that times have changed, and the modern marriage might require a new way of thinking. It’s fun to find out about the old ways though! June 2022 | SUSSEX LIVING 127
