So you want to be a Medieval Bride

On Purchasing Camels
Aindle and Aliyah's Marriage Contract
On Family Trust
Aliyah's Hand
The Big Day
Photo Album
Resources and References
So you want to be a Medieval Bride
Side Trips
Click to Visit:
Weldlake
a Canton of
North Woods
a Barony in
Pentamere
a region of
The Kingdom of the Middle (Midrealm)
a part of
The SCA (Society of Creative Anachronism)
Or visit with Lady Seadhli at the Pentamere and Canton of Weldlake Minister of Youth Website
Come see what we are about on the online
SCA demo
And after your visits, come back - we missed you!

 

or How to Marry Medievally

Wedding customs were as varied in the Middle Ages as they are today. They varied by geography, religion, superstition, and era. Below are some informational tidbits for your consideration when planning your "Special Day."

TO THE BRIDE
bulletYour father’s consent may be considered more important than your own.
bulletYou may be purchased - sight unseen.
bulletYour worth will be discussed in terms of livestock, land, and produce.
bulletDuring your betrothal you may live with your future in-laws.
bulletYou may choose to be "Married in Your Hair" (wear it loose).
bulletYour Bride’s Maids may dress exactly like you to fool evil spirits.
bulletWhite was generally worn by poor Brides to show they came with no debt.
bulletBlue trim on your gown or a blue ribbon on your shoulder shows purity.
bulletIn Germany, rather than "kiss the Bride" the Groom will step on your foot.
bulletYou may have bread broken over your head or rolls thrown at you.
bulletYou should throw your garters to keep from being mauled by the single men who wish to give them to their loves to ensure faithfulness.
bulletYou will be put to bed on your wedding night in the presence of witnesses.
bulletYou will be considered your husband’s property once you’re married.

TO THE GROOM
bulletYou have to ask her father or guardian for permission to marry.
bulletYou will pay a "Brideprice" for the privilege of marrying your Bride.
bulletYou may have to fight for the privilege of marrying your Bride.
bulletYou will pay the single men in the village to compensate "for robbing them of a possible wife."
bulletYou may have to pay for the wedding dinner (including food for the servants).
bulletCarrying your Bride over the threshold is meant to protect her from tripping and bringing bad luck to your marriage.
bulletSince your Bride has no legal status; you become liable for all she does or says as your wife.

TO BOTH OF YOU

 Remember - a mutual declaration of espousal is all you really need to be considered married before the 13th century (Common Law Marriage).

 

So you want to be a Medieval Bride (or Groom)
Marriage in the Middle Ages
Betrothal
Marriage Contract
The Church Wedding
Resources and References
 
© 2006,  2007, 2008, 2009 Mark and Marilyn Meyer.  All material hereon should be considered under copyright protections according to U.S. law and international treaty, and may not be reused without the permission of the author, artist, or other copyright owner as designated. The original contributors retain the copyright of certain portions of this site.