Discovering the Unique Traditions of WV Culture Weddings
West Virginia boasts of a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of traditions from its Native American and European settlers. Weddings, in particular, are an integral part of WV culture, with unique customs and rituals that make it stand out from other parts of the country. In this article, we explore some of the unique traditions that make up WV culture weddings.
The Engagement Process
In WV culture, the engagement process is a significant event that involves both families and close friends. Traditionally, the man would ask for the permission of his potential bride’s father before proposing. Once permission is granted, the couple is then considered officially engaged. In some cases, the couple would exchange promise rings, which serve as a symbol of the engagement.
The Bridal Shower
The bridal shower is an important pre-wedding ceremony where the bride’s friends and family gather to celebrate and shower her with gifts. In WV culture, the bridal shower is often hosted by the bride’s mother or a close female relative. This event could either be a surprise or planned by the bride beforehand.
The Wedding Attire
The wedding attire is an important aspect of any wedding, and WV culture is not an exception. Traditional WV wedding dresses are usually made of cotton or silk, with a simple design that symbolizes the modesty and purity of the bride. The groom, on the other hand, would dress in a suit or a dress shirt and pants. However, modern WV couples are starting to incorporate western wedding attire into their WV wedding ceremonies.
The Ceremony
The wedding ceremony in WV culture is a solemn and joyous occasion, where both families come together to celebrate the union of the couple. WV wedding ceremonies can either be religious or secular, with most couples preferring to have a mix of both. WV wedding ceremonies often include the exchange of wedding vows, a unity candle ceremony, or a handfasting ceremony, where the couple’s hands are tied together as a symbol of the union.
The Reception
The reception is a post-wedding ceremony where guests gather to celebrate the newlyweds. In WV culture, the reception is often held in a community hall or a barn. WV culture weddings are famous for their food, which includes traditional West Virginia dishes such as biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and sweet tea. Guests also enjoy traditional West Virginia music such as mountain hymns, bluegrass, and country music.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, WV culture weddings are a unique blend of traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. From the engagement process to the reception, it is evident that WV culture weddings are steeped in tradition and culture. WV couples continue to blend their cultural traditions with modern western wedding customs, making WV culture weddings an exciting event to look forward to.
