The occasions of modern wedlock – the proposal, the ceremony, the reception – rise from roots that run through Western culture, obtaining historical nourishment from some unusual and little-known traditions of ancient betrothals.

Its moorings are profoundly religious, sometimes strange and exemplify the grandeur and beauty of the sacred union; behind the pomp and circumstance, beyond the orchestrated splendor and the magnificent precision, something deep is woven through this primordial human union, an element that transcends our basic natures.

We at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club specialize in assembling perfection of wedding ceremony and reception. Our wedding planner, Julianne Cuomo, Director of Celebrations, will work wonders with you in creating your work of art – the gorgeous wedding, the brilliant reception, the best time of your lives together. Choose from our Platinum, Gold and Silver packages for a wonderful reception. Each package includes some amazing enhancements.

By booking your entire wedding here at Golden Ocala, many additional facility fees are waived including rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, engagement photo shoots, bachelorette gatherings and bachelor parties. Contact our planner today!

Wedding Ceremony Has Ancient Origins

But now let’s explore the origins of the modern wedding ceremony.

• The Ring Finger: The ancient Greeks believed the third finger connected directly to the heart. It was called the “vein of love.”
• The Wedding Ring: The ancients believed the ring would protect brides from evil spirits.
• The Engagement Ring: Pope Nicholas I declared in 860 that engagement rings signified martial intent.
• The Wedding Cake: The cake was thrown at or dropped on the head of ancient Roman brides to promote fertility.
• The Toast: During the 16^th century, a small piece of bread would be put in a container of wine and passed from person to person until it reached the honored guest, who would eat the bread and drink the wine.
• Brides Stand to the Left: After capturing the bride, the groom would place her on his left to protect her from sudden attack. He’d be able to use his sword with his right hand.
• Honeymooning: The groom would take his bride into hiding after capturing her. Once the bride’s family discovered where they were, she would presumably already be pregnant.
• Wedding: The old Anglo-Saxon “wedd” indicated the groom “would” marry his bride.
• Tie The Knot: Ancient Romans required the groom – his “duty” – to untie the many knots that kept the bride’s girdle attached.
• The Shower: Showers were designed to strengthen relations between the bride and her friends, who would provide her with emotional support and help her prepare for marriage.
• White Wedding Dress: Ann of Brittany wore a white wedding gown in 1499. Women used to wear their best dresses at prior ceremonies.

While we don’t require you to have a diploma in ancient history, we do hope you have a wedding that will be set in the annals of your lives’ together. Contact us today to begin planning your picture-perfect wedding!