The Origin of the Wedding Kiss

While some traditions fade and others are altered, the wedding kiss has persisted. A kiss after the vows is a wedding tradition that seems will never disappear. Today, the wedding kiss serves as a representation of love and devotion between the couple. Historically, however, the wedding kiss served a rather different and, one would say quite honestly, a more meaningful purpose.

Like many traditions passed down for centuries, the history is a bit distorted and unclear. As a result, there are quite a number of accounts given for the origin of the wedding kiss.

The most commonly cited story is that of the ancient Romans (753 BC to 27 BC and then from 64 AD to 1453 AD). In ancient Rome, the wedding kiss was more of a legal formality; it symbolized a transaction that had taken place.

Back then, marriage was considered a contract and the kiss was the “signature” that rendered the contract binding. In an age of widespread illiteracy, kisses served to seal agreements, thus the expression ‘to seal with a kiss.'” The wedding ceremony was also considered to be the first time that the couple ever kissed.

Others argue that the history of this significant kiss starts in the church. In ancient Catholic ceremonies, it was customary for priests to give the groom “a kiss of peace.” The groom was then required to pass the kiss on to his dearly beloved. It is said that this is how the phrase “you may now kiss the bride” came about.

Another religious argument about the origin of this kiss comes from the scripture itself. The kiss is said to symbolize the fulfilment of the scripture that says “and the two shall become one flesh” in the Bible (Mark 10:8) which is a repeat of the account in Genesis.

Whatever the reason it has endured through time, we’re pretty glad that the wedding kiss has stood the test of time. It is one of the most anticipated moments of a wedding and it is fair to say one needs to get it right.

If public displays of affection are not for you though, remember that the kiss is not compulsory and your wedding is still valid without it, its legal implications notwithstanding!

We still demand it though and if you choose to do it, serve us the full meal. Don’t get us excited then give us snacks of a kiss! Even in this COVID period, please don’t kiss with a mask on!