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The Victorian era wedding ceremony is usually governed by the
religious formularies of the church to which the bride and groom
may belong, which chooses the clergyman for its performance.
The bride has typically two bridesmaids, and the groom the same
number of groomsmen. However, it is possible to alter the number
of bridesmaids and groomsmen. It is merely a guideline not a
law, and it may be modified. The appropriate Victorian ceremony
is normally performed at 12 o'clock in the day, at the church,
which is first entered by the bride resting on the arm of her
father, uncle, or the person is to "give her away." Next comes
the groom along side the mother or closest female relative. The
groomsmen and bridesmaids, arm in arm follow the bride and
groom. The closest relatives complete the procession to the
altar, where the bride and groom take their places in advance,
with the parents closely following, and the rest gathered in a
group around them.
The groom is responsible for presenting the wedding ring, and
have it in readiness at the appropriate moment when called upon
to place it on the brides ring finger. The ring is placed on the
third finger from, but not counting the thumb of the left hand.
After the marriage ceremony is complete, the question now and
then arises whether the bride is to be kissed by the groom.
Historically, the kiss is considered improper behavior, but it
is, of course, common practice today. In conclusion, friends and
family in the church congratulate the bride and groom. Elderly
relatives may kiss the bride in congratulation. Queen Victoria
herself was kissed by the Duke of Sussex, but not by Prince
Albert.
The newly weds then return to the bride's house together, taking
precedence of all, and, on arrival, assume a standing position
at one end of the reception-room and await the coming of the
invited guests, who, as they enter, are presented by the
groomsmen to offer their congratulations. The usual breakfast or
dinner closes the Victorian marriage ceremony.
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