Marriage

History

Marriage was never about love. The two individuals might share feelings, true, but the marriage was never about showing that. Instead, it is a way to unite families. Allies through blood are some of the most loyal allies you can have, and families take great care which they choose to bond with. The actual couple rarely has any say in who they get married to. This is usually not a problem for the couple tho, as they've known that's how it works since they were small. Instead, it's viewed through practical eyes and their families often take some care in not picking someone who would be absolutely inappropriate for their child.

Execution

The ceremony always takes place during the spring, symbolizing the two families bright future united. First, the couple's fathers (or mother if the father is absent) shake hands, confirming that the marriage will continue. After that, the ceremony truly begins with the couple reading each other vows. They both exchange handmade rings made out of their hair, braided and tied like a knot around their partner's finger. A big dinner is then thrown in the new couple's and the families' honor. During the dinner everyone gets to know each other more, becoming one bigger family. After the ceremony and dinner are over, the new couple move into a house bought or built by the families to start their new life together.

Components and tools

All the guests wear their finest clothes and jewelry during the celebrations. If the families have any heirlooms they are usually brought to the ceremony, and their tales are told during the dinner.

Participants

Both families participate, and sometimes close friends too. The four most important people are the heads of the two families and the couple getting married. Without the heads' permission, the wedding is never gone through.

Observance

During the spring, often closer to the summer