Part Two: H – O of British Wedding Traditions and Etiquette

Following on from our previous blog on Wedding Traditions and Etiquette, here is our next blog with H – O of British Wedding traditions :

H – HONEYMOON: In tradition it is said that the Groom is to plan the honeymoon as a surprise for the Bride, however nowadays it is seen to be a joint decision in choosing that all important destination!

CC - Honeymoon

I – INVITATIONS: Remember guests can be invited to the daytime reception or just the evening do, dependent on your venue and capacity! Clearwell Castle accommodates for up to 160 day guests and 250 + evening guests – plenty of space for all of your family and friends!

CC - Invitation

J – JEWELS: On the day, it is said that no other rings should be worn with the exception of the engagement ring which should be worn on the right hand so that your wedding ring finger is free for the ceremony. The engagement ring can then be moved across to your left hand after the ceremony.

CC - Rings

K – KEEPSAKES: Gifts for the Mums is a great idea and can be presented as a thank you during the speeches, not forgetting your Bridesmaids and Groomsmen!

CC - Speeches

L – LINGERIE: Or garter to be precise! Traditionally the Groom removes the garter from the Brides leg and throws this to his male friends. The person that catches this is then supposed to place the garter on the female friend that caught the bouquet!

CC - Garter

M – MORNING COAT: A long time ago, weddings used to take place during the mornings and gentlemen wore their morning attire – hence the name ‘morning suit!’

CC - Suits

N – NO SHOW: Sometimes things crop up and for whatever reason some guests may not be able to attend the day! Make sure your Bridesmaids or wedding co-ordinator are to hand to help rearrange your table plan.

CC - Ballroom

O – ORDER OF SERVICE: The typical Church Order of Service will run as per below and your Ushers will hand these out to your guests as they take their seats for the ceremony –

  • Entrance of the Bride
  • Welcome and Introduction
  • Hymn
  • Readings
  • Sermon
  • Exchange of Marriage Vows
  • Prayers; Hymn
  • The Signing of the Register
  • Final Blessing
  • Exit

Please remember that religious readings and hymns are not allowed in a civil ceremony and we suggest speaking to your registrars early on to discuss your choices.

CC - Order of Service

Emma at Clearwell Castle

If you have any questions relating to having your wedding at Clearwell Castle, please don't hesitate to call Laura via the contact details below:

Laura

T: 01594 832 320
E: info@clearwell-castle.co.uk

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