Edwardian Weddings

Avid readers of my weddings blog may recall that I have referred to a book, originally dating from 1904 and recently republished by A & C Black, called “Don’ts for Weddings”. Times change, of course, and I pointed out some advice contained in this volume that appears, at the very least, quaint to our eyes – although it should be said that much remains sound advice even over a century later.

I invite you to sample a few more nuggets.

The Engaged Couple

“Don’t … talk of your wedding-day as if it were your execution.”

“Women are always jealous of the girls their sons marry; take care to disarm this.”

“Don’t tyrannise your fiancé. If you order him about and take his submission as your due, rest assured that one day the worm will surely turn.” [I would observe that the tyrannising (?) comes after marriage nowadays!] [I also like the assumption that it is the woman only who will do the dominating.]

“Don’t risk criticism by urging a hasty marriage if you are a lady. Let that come from your fiancé.”

Preparing for the Big Day

“Once the groom’s finances are secure, and the bride is willing to renounce freedom for bonds that should be blessed, you may proceed to the marriage.”

“Don’t permit the choice of bridesmaids to become a source of family friction… they may be neither attractive nor young.”

The Invitations

“Don’t neglect to invite any friend who has sent a present before the invitations are sent out.”

Wedding Presents

“… Mustard-pots and salt-cellars are monotonous.”

“Don’t offer silver if the bride will have only one servant. She will have to rub up her own brushes and sweetmeat dishes.”

I wonder whether you have any comments or thoughts about the Edwardian mindset when it comes to marriage? Your input would be very welcome.

Whether you’re looking for a life-cycle event that is old-fashioned or bang up-to-date, Michael will be delighted to create and conduct a personalised  ceremony for you.