Marriage: what’s love got to do with it?
In the old days, economics, politics or culture meant your future spouse would come from your social group and be either a neighbour or a distant relative. Love rarely came into the equation, unlike today. At least that’s what most people say…
But is marriage really just a romantic connection between two free souls? Or are more practical reasons at play? Is love nothing but a second-hand emotion after all? Why did you get married?
Swiss weddings
The law states that the couple must be over 18 years of age, not married and persons subject to guardianship orders must obtain the consent of their legal representative.
The civil wedding is a public ceremony held at the register office in the presence of two adult witnesses. The spouses and witnesses sign the marriage register. An official family record book and marriage certificate is then handed out. A subsequent religious wedding can be carried out if the couple wish.
Wedding receptions often involve around 60 close family and friends. Around 120 people from the couple's wider circle of acquaintances may attend a separate drinks party beforehand.
There are normally no bridesmaids or best man at Swiss weddings. As in other cultures, the fiancé is not supposed to see his intended's dress before the ceremony.
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