THE ORIGIN OF THE 'WEDDING RING'

Rings were used as currency in the Middle East prior to the advent of coinage and were a sign of a person's wealth. In ancient times the wedding ring was thought to protect the bride from evil spirits. Ancient Roman wedding rings were made of iron.

In early Rome a gold band came to symbolise everlasting love and commitment in marriage. Roman wedding rings were carved with two clasped hands.

THE ORIGIN OF THE 'ENGAGEMENT RING'

In 860 AD, Pope Nicholas I decreed that an engagement ring become a required statement of nuptial intent. He insisted that engagement rings had to be made of gold, which signified a financial sacrifice for the prospective husband.

THE ORIGIN OF THE DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING

The diamond engagement ring originated with King Maximilian who presented Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring in 1477 as a token of his love.

The Venetians popularised the custom during the 15th century.

THE ORIGIN OF THE WEDDING CAKE

In first century BC Rome, the cake was thrown at the bride or broken over her head as one of the many fertility symbols which then were a part of the marriage ceremony.

THE ORIGIN OF THE GROOM'S CAKE

The tradition of a Groom's Cake comes from England and Ireland. There, the traditional groom's cake is a fruit cake with white icing. The groom's cake is usually served along with the traditional wedding cake. Today groom's cakes are very often chocolate instead of the traditional fruit cake.

THE ORIGIN OF THE TOAST

The term originates from the 16th century. At that time a small piece of bread would be placed in a goblet of wine. The goblet would be passed from guest to guest until it reached the person being honoured who would drain the goblet and eat the morsel of bread in the bottom. This tradition is practiced at weddings today - usually in the form of one or more champagne 'toasts'. The best man has the honor of giving the first toast.

Usually the bride and groom remain seated for the toasts while all the guests are usually standing to honor them. The couple may then make a few remarks thanking their families, wedding party members, and guests. Often special glass or silver goblets are used by the bride and groom.

THE ORIGIN OF THE BEST MAN TRADITION

Among the Germanic Goths of northern Europe in 200 AD, a man usually married a woman from his own community. However, when there were fewer women, the prospective bridegroom would capture his bride from a neighbouring village. The bridegroom was accompanied by his strongest friend (or best friend).

WHY THE BRIDE STANDS TO THE GROOMS LEFT

After the bridegroom captured his bride, he placed her on his left to protect her, thus freeing his right hand or sword hand against sudden attack.