BRITISH WEDDING
Today we will consider the British wedding. This time my special guest is my friend, Julita, who has been living in the UK for almost 10 years! Let’s check what her answers are :).
1. What are the tendencies of getting married in the UK? Do people get married more often than in the past?
Numbers can vary. 2017 was the lowest on record for number of marriages in the UK. The number has risen again since gay marriage became legal. Special dates are often a factor… For example 2ND February 2022 (2/2/22) Besides, majority of couples tend to move in together before deciding to get married. Many people are also waiting longer to have kids. Getting married in your 30s is the new normal.
2. Generally, how much earlier do the couples start the preparation?
Usually 12-18 months beforehand is when couples start looking for and choosing their wedding supplies. Exception is the venue, which couples book about two years in advance. Wedding dress designers will tell you to book the date and venue first and then come to them 12 month before the wedding to look for a dress.
3. How big are traditional weddings? Who is invited?
80 approx day time guests. 200 guests in the evening. We are looking here at entire family, parents, siblings, cousins etc plus friends.
4. What are the most common traditions?
Bridal preparations in the morning when bride and bridal party gets ready for the big day. Bride would have: 'Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue’. Ceremony in the afternoon, followed by reception and then arrival of the evening guests. Photography (family shots and romantics usually right after the ceremony) Speeches before or after reception. Traditionally it is groom, best man and father of the bride who gives the speach. Cake cutting and first dance also need to be on the list. After these two the real party begins!
5. What kind of meals/drinks are always served?
Champagne for bride & groom after ceremony and during speeches. Lager and wine are common drinks served at the reception. Food depends on the venue, but Sunday dinner, which consists of roasted meat, roast potatoes or mashed potatoes, and extras such as Yorkshire pudding, stuffing, gravy and mint sauce is common with fish as an alternative. Most wedding have an open bar, which means that you choose and pay for your own drinks.
