So you've become engaged, and its time to plan your wedding. If you have a thing for the traditionally romantic-beautiful maidens and knights in shining armour, then a Medieval/Renaissance wedding -- complete with recollections of Guinevere and Sir Lancelot--may be the perfect choice for you. If you are the bride, you need to let go of the idea of wearing white to a wedding of this type. Medieval brides wore rich colours such as burgundy or hunter green in fabrics such as velvet and lace. The hair is either worn out or in braids with flowers, ivy or herbs as a headpiece.
A decision you may be confronted with is where to hold such a wedding. If you want your ceremony in a church, try to find one that looks Gothic--i.e made of stone, with lots of stained glass. You may want to be married outdoors, if so a woodsy type of site would probably suit the theme. You may also choose to marry at a Renaissance or Medieval fair. Most major cities have regular Renaissance or Medieval fairs, these can be a great place to get an idea of costume and rituals to be included in your marriage.
The Medieval wedding ceremony is actually quite a lengthy one. Traditionally it contains aspects of early Christian liturgy. Usually some of the wording has to be changed to suit modern sensibilities especially for the female. The wording of the ceremony is very traditional by modern day standards. You may also shorten the ceremony as desired. This wedding can also include a handfasting.
The Medieval clothing is usually not just worn by the wedding party, the guests are usually garbed in the clothing of the period also. Medieval costume can even be handmade to create authenticity. The wearing of costume makes the ceremony into quite an event, which the guests can also feel very much a part of. There are many different pages on the Internet which can be accessed for more information on planning your Medieval wedding.
Please contact me personally if you are thinking of having me officiate at a Medieval wedding and would like a sample ceremony sent to you. I would be happy to don costume to fit your theme and make your day complete.
