Wedding Traditions and Superstitions

Seating
In ancient times, families would offer their daughters as peace offerings to warring tribes. Due to hostility between tribal families, families were placed on opposite sides of the church so the ceremony could go on more peaceably. Once the ceremony had united the two warring factions into one family the danger of war was resolved.
Bride on the Groom's Left
Because the early grooms lived in violent times, they often had to defend their brides from would-be attackers. Brides would therefore stand to the left of the groom, leaving his sword-arm free. The "best" warrior in the tribe stood by the groom and was responsible for helping defend the bride, thus the placement for the modern day “best” man.

The Kiss
The kiss between bride and groom after the exchange of vows began as a legal bond that sealed all contracts.

The Unity Candle
The unity candle is a symbol of family unity. Usually a single candle (representing the newly married couple) is lit with two individual candles, each representing the bride's and groom's families.

The White Aisle Runner
The white aisle runner symbolized God's holiness and walking on holy ground. It is believed that marriage is not just between two individuals but includes the presence of God who is actively involved in the marriage ceremony.

Timing at your Wedding
It brings more luck if the groom arrives at the church before the bride.
Lucky for you if you have a hiccup in your last few moments- it is not considered lucky for the bride to start down the aisle right on time.  For good luck, she should however, step into the church with her right foot first.
Saying your vows when the hour hand on the clock is going up heaven wards (anti clockwise) is said to prophesise that you will work together in your married life. If you say your wedding vows when the hand is travelling downward (clockwise), it is supposed to attract bad luck.