Did you know that the bride traditionally stands to the left of the groom at the altar so that the groom has his right hand free to defend her from attack and capture?A sword is usually carried at the right hip, unless the groom happens to be left-handed.

Did you know that carrying the bride across the threshold originated in Rome? The bride was supposed to pretend to be fearful or be reluctant to enter the bridal chamber. Back then, it was considered well mannered to be a little bit hesitant or at least look hesitant.

Did you know that the flower girls symbolized the wish the marriage would be fruitful and at one time they carried wheat instead of flowers? The wheat was eventually replaced with flowers and it became customary to strew the flowers where to bride could walk over them.

Did you know that the tradition of the bride carrying flowers also came from Rome? Of course, Roman brides carried herbs under the wedding veil as symbols of fertility and fidelity.

These traditions of marriage come from a time when people did not need a New Jersey divorce lawyer. In fact, there is one tradition of divorce from ancient times that is the simplest of all. When a man decided he did not want his wife anymore he simply went to the center of the marketplace and at the top of his lungs declared, “She is no longer my wife!” Divorce final! Of course, the legend says nothing about child support or the need for NJ child support attorney.

The History of Marriage Part 2