Ever wondered why we do the things we do with such conviction on our wedding day? Tradition and ageless folklore mostly. Here are just a few examples of how and why certain elements to a wedding are followed.

• The traditional wedding cake began in ancient Rome as guests would break a loaf of bread over the bride’s head for fertility.
• Engagement rings are worn on the left ring finger because it was believed that a vein ran from that finger directly to the heart.
• The Western tradition of wearing a white wedding dress was begun by Queen Victoria in 1840.
• Ancient Greek and Roman brides wore veils to protect against evil spirits. This tradition lives on today.