There are many traditions in modern weddings that have been adopted & adapted from weddings dating back to early Greek & Roman times. Some of these are barbaric, to say the least. Let’s look at the “Best Man,” for example. In today’s wedding world, the Best Man is responsible for organizing the Bachelor Party, making sure the Groom is on time for the ceremony, holding the rings, and toasting the Bride & Groom at the reception. However, he used to have some slightly different responsibilities.

Long ago, if there were no available ladies in your village, a man would have to steal one away from her family in another village. The Groom would pick the “Best Man” – or strongest fighter – he knew to come along side him to help fight off the family of his new unsuspecting bride. This also explains why the Best Man always stands beside the groom… the wedding ceremony was the last opportunity the bride’s family had to steal her back, so the Best Man is standing by ready to fight. Fortunately, times have changed, so even if you’re not that handy with a sword, you can still be your buddy’s Best Man. Here are some other wedding traditions with interesting beginnings.

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