The wedding-industrial complex

Weddings are more expensive and extravagant. Let's not forget about their meaning.

from the June 8, 2007 edition

Page 2 of 2

Page 1 | 2

That message can reflect a subtle appeal to vanity (facials are a must). It can raise a certain fear (if a videographer doesn't record every moment from engagement on, you'll forget it all). Or suggest limitation (what, there's only one perfect day in life?).

Couples buy into the wedding extravaganza as a substitute for the lost meaning of the ceremony itself, Mead found. For many couples, especially those living together, there's little difference between the days before and after the big day. Many weddings seem to be more about the bride and groom making a personal statement than making one before God.

But there is still deep meaning in making a lifelong, mutual promise of love and support, as anyone who has uttered or witnessed a heartfelt exchange of vows recognizes.

One such exchange comes to mind. The bride went through a long list of all the things she might make if life handed them lemons: lemonade, lemon meringue pie, lemon mousse, lemon dill sauce. Then the groom took her hand, looked into her eyes, and said simply, "I promise to be good to you."

There wasn't a dry eye in the house. And it really couldn't have mattered whether that "house" was an expensive resort on a paradise island or a simple altar.

1 | Page 2