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  The ceremony that signifies the beginning of a marriage is known as a wedding. Weddings may be simple or elaborate, but they occur in virtually all societies.
Anthropologists characterize wedding ceremonies as rituals of transition, or rites of passage. These rites occur when people cross boundaries of age and social status. Any social transition, such as a wedding, sets off changes in the lives of all those connected with the individual.
Weddings dramatize these changes for all involved and also allow for the expression of emotions brought on by the events. Weddings announce to the community the union of the individuals marrying and allow the community to express its approval of support for that union.
 Wedding rituals throughout the world share several common features. An essential element of nearly all wedding ceremonies is the symbolic expression of the union between the individuals marrying. This union may be signified by the exchange of rings, the tying of the bride and groom's garments together, or simply the joining of hands. Other rituals emphasize the function of the marriage as the foundation of the family, For instance, Hindu wedding ceremonies the bride and the groom circle a sacred fire to promote the fertility of the union. Feasting and dancing at weddings by family and friends signifies the community's blessing on the marriage. In Christian weddings the community too, has an interesting lecture with an emphasis on the sanctity of marriage given by the clergy, as described in the Bible.
 Until the middle of the 19th century, weddings in Western society were modest events that took place in homes. By 1900, formal weddings and their attendant rituals had become major events in middle class families. Today weddings happen outdoor, in the garden, on the beach, at sea, on the mountaintop, etc.
 Although time has changed and approaches to wedding celebrations vary, its significance remains. Beautiful Weddings, Etc. believes a wedding is a transition, a rite of passage to marriage, which is a life-long commitment between a man and a woman. Marriage is an honorable state, whereby a husband and wife unite in love, with a full understanding that it is a serious and lasting relationship.
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 You can rest assured of the high quality of service you will receive from me: free initial in-person consultation to discuss your wedding details, a personalized wedding ceremony script, a copy of your wedding ceremony, unlimited contacts with me via telephone and/or email, or in person by appointment, filing of all your documents, and pre-marital counseling upon requests.
As always, e-mail me your thoughts or questions: officiant@beautifulweddings-online.com I'd love to hear from you!
Best Regards,
Rev. Elvira V. Alba
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