Everyone knows this wedding superstition: here is why it has such great power
The superstition surrounding not seeing the bride before the wedding date has deep roots dating back to the time when marriages were arranged. However, in the modern era, this tradition is slowly giving way to new practices, such as the popular "first look." While couples these days may choose to see each other before the ceremony, understanding the history behind this age-old superstition can add depth to the decision of whether to embrace or disregard it on your big day. This is prepared by SSP.
Originally, the tradition of not seeing the partner before the wedding emerged from a belief that it would bring bad luck. In arranged marriages, if the bride and groom met prior to the wedding ceremony, there was a fear that the groom may call off the wedding if he did not find the bride attractive. This superstition emerged as a way to guarantee that the groom would follow through with the commitment to marry someone's daughter, particularly in cases where the union was formed for business reasons.
Historically, couples not only refrained from seeing each other on the wedding day but often had never laid eyes on each other prior to the ceremony. Arranged marriages predominantly focused on securing wealthy alliances between families rather than love matches. To protect the reputation of the bride and her family, it was crucial to minimize the risk of the groom rejecting the bride based on appearance. Thus, the veil played a significant role, preventing the groom from catching a glimpse of the bride until the very last moment––the end of the ceremony when it was too late to back out.
In contemporary times, the superstition has transformed into a more romantic notion of savoring the surprise of the partners' appearance until they stand at the altar. With arranged marriages being less common today and couples seeking personalization and uniqueness in their weddings, abandoning the tradition of not seeing each other before the ceremony has become more widely practiced.
For those open to alternative customs, there are several meaningful options to consider. The "first look" has gained popularity, offering couples the chance to have a private moment where they see each other for the first time on their wedding day. This moment allows them to appreciate and enjoy each other without a crowd. A photographer or videographer can capture this poignant encounter, adding a beautiful memory to be cherished. Some couples worry that a first look may diminish the emotions they anticipate during the aisle walk. However, the key is to focus on the significance of the moment as the beginning of their lifelong journey together.
Alternatively, some brides who wish to adhere to the tradition of not seeing their partner until the ceremony opt for a touching "father-daughter first look" instead. This emotional moment can be equally powerful, if not more so. Additionally, couples may choose to exchange vows in an intimate setting before the ceremony, providing an opportunity for a private expression of love. This is ideal for those who seek moments of solitude before the wedding festivities begin and for those who prefer a more personalized approach to vow exchanges.
