What is a Wedding?
Tuesday June 16, 2009
I recently had the small child of a friend ask me "What's a wedding?" and in explaining it to her, I realized that the simple definition was really interesting. Is a wedding the pomp and circumstance, the expensive dress, and elaborate reception? Or is it the simplicity of two people exchanging wedding vows? Here's how I define What is a Wedding.
Coincidentally on the same day, another friend seemed to be confusing a wedding with legal marriage when talking about the battles for gay marriage around the country. When I got married, my husband and I decided not to get legally married because the state's recognition didn't mean anywhere near as much as the recognition of our family and friends. While we might get legally married one day, especially if there is more equality in rights for all people, our wedding day will always be the day we actually got married. Here's what I think is The Difference Between a Wedding, a Marriage, and a Legal Marriage.
Coincidentally on the same day, another friend seemed to be confusing a wedding with legal marriage when talking about the battles for gay marriage around the country. When I got married, my husband and I decided not to get legally married because the state's recognition didn't mean anywhere near as much as the recognition of our family and friends. While we might get legally married one day, especially if there is more equality in rights for all people, our wedding day will always be the day we actually got married. Here's what I think is The Difference Between a Wedding, a Marriage, and a Legal Marriage.
Comments
I was wondering, in a situation where you’re not legally married, do you then have to keep your name the same? I know women who get legally married can either keep their name or take their husband’s last name, but in this type of marriage, can you go by your husband’s last name? Also, do people who are not legally married file taxes separately? This is interesting, I never heard of a straight couple getting married but not legally. Thanks for the info!