THE POLISH WEDDINGS

WEDDING’S DRESS

The young and beautiful bride all dressed in a white

tailor-made wedding gown. The handsome

bridegroom, acting a bit awkward "- t's his first

wedding, after all - dressed in a black suit,

complemented by the white, starched shirt with an

exciting bow-tie. Just look at those highly polished

expensive leather shoes, worn for the first time, to

appreciate the gravity of the event!

A wedding is on occasion cherished by the Polish

families - for many Dads and Mums being the peak of

their parenthood. Who would believe that the little

Kate that used to sit on her Dad's knees and play

with his moustache, and the plump William, that

used to collect butterflies and pin them on the walls,

annoying his mother, are now getting married.

Still, a vast majority of Poles will chose a traditional

wedding with long preparations including the tailor-

made clothes for the bride's and the groom, the

golden wedding rings, renting of a suitable venue, an

expensive menu, completed often by an especially

hired music band.

There is also a white limousine or even a horse

carriage followed by a number of less expensive

vehicles filled with family and friends taking the young

couple to the civil ceremony. The visit to the church

follows where, what is perceived as the "real

marriage" takes place. Wedding vows are read by the

priest: "Do you, Kate, take William, for your wedded

wife?" It is an exalted moment, and saying no is not an

option.

Once the rings are exchanged, a kiss seals the holy

union, while the family and the friends cheer. Once

the priest receives his reward, the now officially

married couple moves with their following to the

place where the real fun, the wedding reception and

the wedding party takes place. The Polish name for

this event is "wesele," which can be roughly

translated as a "happy occasion," which it is for

some,

if not for all.

The bride and the bridegroom reside behind the table, the guests

depending on their relation to the family and their importance are

being seated. The food is already waiting, but before that, it is

time for the traditional kiss delivered by the young couple. The

guests holding their glasses filled with cold champagne intone

"Bitter, bitter" indicating that the taste is not up to the standards

until they see the groom kiss the bride. Once this is done, the

room erupts in cheer and laughter.

Now the real fun can begin.

The traditional toasts follow. Eating and drinking

continues throughout the evening interrupted by an

occasional, drunk choir.

As a rule, the Poles do not have a very big song

repertoire, and for some reason, it consists mostly of

outdated folk songs that most of them know since

childhood.

The temperature is rising. The band starts to play

Polish favorites..

If you want, you can ask the band to play a song of

your choice, but it will cost you. The young couple

starts the first dance and the rest follows. The choice

of music is fairly eclectic, depending on the band's

repertoire and the wishes of the family.

THE END