Wedding traditions and customs are like special rules and fun things that people do when they get married. Kind of like how you might have special rules or fun things you do when you play a game with your friends. These traditions and customs can happen before, during, and even after the wedding.
Before the wedding, there are a few special things that might happen. One tradition is called "engagement." This is when two people decide they want to get married and they tell their family and friends. Sometimes, the person who wants to get married will give their partner a special ring called an engagement ring to show that they love and want to marry them. Another tradition is called "pre-wedding parties." These are parties that happen before the wedding and are usually a lot of fun! One common pre-wedding party is called a bridal shower, where the bride's friends and family give her gifts to help her start her new life with her partner.
On the day of the wedding, there are lots of fun things that take place. One of the most important traditions is the ceremony, where the couple gets married in front of their family and friends. This usually happens in a special place, like a church or a garden. During the ceremony, there might be a person called a priest or a minister who says special words and blessings for the couple. The couple might also exchange special promises or vows to each other, saying how much they love and will take care of each other. It's also common for the couple to exchange rings during the ceremony, as a symbol of their love and commitment.
After the ceremony, there are more fun things that can happen. One popular tradition is called the "reception." This is like a big, fancy party where everyone celebrates the wedding with the couple. There is usually yummy food to eat and a big cake that the couple cuts together. People might also give speeches or toasts, where they say nice things about the couple. At the reception, people often dance and play fun games to celebrate the special day.
Now, let's talk about some customs that can happen during a wedding. One common custom is for the bride to wear a special white dress. The white dress is a sign of purity and happiness. The groom usually wears a suit or a tuxedo that is also special. It's also common for the bride to have a bouquet of flowers that she carries down the aisle during the ceremony. The bouquet can be made of different kinds of flowers and it looks really pretty.
Another custom is something called the "first dance." This happens at the reception and it's when the bride and groom dance together for the first time as a married couple. It's a lovely moment and people often watch and cheer for them.
There are so many more traditions and customs that can happen during a wedding, but these are just a few examples. The important thing to remember is that weddings are a special time for two people who love each other to celebrate and start their new life together. It's a very happy and exciting day full of love, joy, and lots of fun things to do!