The Tradition of NOT Seeing the Bride Before the Ceremony | Wedding History (2024)

How did we come to the modern-day and now challenged tradition of the bride and groom not seeing each other until the ceremony on the wedding day? Better understanding the tradition might help you in the wedding planning process.

This practice emerges from pre-18th century time, when it was common place for pre-arranged marriages. It was deemed "unlucky" for a bride and groom to see one another. This was an attempt to keep the groom from backing out of the wedding upon seeing his unidentified bride to be prior to the ceremony.

Many modern couples opt to have a first look rather than wait to see eachtoehr down the aisle. Understanding the history behind the tradition of not seeing one another before the wedding ceremony has helped couples make the choice to have a first look.

The Tradition of NOT Seeing the Bride Before the Ceremony | Wedding History (1)

Wedding Planning Tips: Aren't sure if a first look is for you? Read more about what a First Look is and why we recommend them, here.

Interested in more wedding history? Click here for the history of why the wedding ring is worn on the right hand

California Destination Wedding Planner: Bridget Davis Events

Destination Wedding Photo: Danielle Harris Photography

The Tradition of NOT Seeing the Bride Before the Ceremony  | Wedding History (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Terrell Hackett

Last Updated:

Views: 6431

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (72 voted)

Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Terrell Hackett

Birthday: 1992-03-17

Address: Suite 453 459 Gibson Squares, East Adriane, AK 71925-5692

Phone: +21811810803470

Job: Chief Representative

Hobby: Board games, Rock climbing, Ghost hunting, Origami, Kabaddi, Mushroom hunting, Gaming

Introduction: My name is Terrell Hackett, I am a gleaming, brainy, courageous, helpful, healthy, cooperative, graceful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.