Is Getting Married In May Unusual? • Vowness

Getting married in May was once considered unusual due to various superstitions and traditions.

Historically, the month of May was linked to the Roman Feast of the Dead, during which it was believed that evil spirits roamed the Earth.

This led to the perception that getting hitched during this time would result in an ill-fated union.

However, in contemporary times, weddings in May are no longer deemed inauspicious but instead, have become widely popular as couples seek to take advantage of the beginning of summer.

Choosing a May wedding date can have several advantages, including potentially fewer guests’ scheduling conflicts, while also providing pleasant weather for the celebration.

Nevertheless, there are a few drawbacks to consider when tying the knot in May, such as increased competition for wedding venues and the possibility of guests being invited to multiple nuptials across the summer season.

Despite this, selecting the right wedding date is ultimately a personal decision that should reflect the preferences and priorities of the couple.

Key Takeaways

• May weddings were once considered unusual due to superstitions and historical context, but are now popular for various reasons.
• A May wedding can offer benefits such as fewer scheduling conflicts and enjoyable weather, but may also result in increased competition for venues and guest attendance.
• Ultimately, the choice of a wedding date depends on the couple’s preferences and priorities, with May being one of many viable options.

Historical Context of May Weddings

Ancient Rome

In Ancient Rome, May was considered an unfavorable month for weddings due to its association with the Lemuria festival, an event where Romans placated the restless spirits of the dead.

They believed that weddings during this period would bring misfortune and that the new couple would struggle to find happiness.

This superstition contributed to the notion of “Marry in May, rue the day,” which persists in some cultures even today.

Other Cultural Traditions

Contrary to the Roman belief, other cultures have different perspectives on May weddings.

For instance, in some European cultures, May is seen as an ideal month for weddings due to the favorable weather and the abundance of flowers during this time, symbolizing fertility and prosperity.

In the United States, May is filled with various holidays, like Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, which can be an advantage for those planning a wedding. Setting the wedding around these dates can allow family and friends to extend their weekend and celebrate together.

While the tradition of marrying in May varies across cultures and time periods, it is essential to acknowledge the historical context that has shaped these beliefs and practices.

In the end, the choice of when to get married depends on the couple’s preferences, cultural background, and personal beliefs.

The Superstition of May Marriages

Origins of the Beliefs

The superstition surrounding May marriages has its roots in an old saying, “Marry in May, rue the day.”

This belief, prevalent in many cultures, associates getting married in May with bad luck and an unhappy marriage.

One possible reason for the superstition might be related to the ancient Roman calendar, where May was dedicated to the dead and the goddess of chastity, feeding into the idea that May was not a favorable month for celebrating love and new beginnings.

It is also important to note that the month of May has various connections to different cultural and religious traditions.

In some regions, people believe that May weddings can attract negative energies and spiritual forces that might negatively impact the couple’s future life together.

How it Affects Modern Days

In today’s society, many people have moved away from strictly following these old superstitions and now focus more on personal preferences or practical considerations when choosing a wedding date.

However, some individuals and communities still discuss and abide by these beliefs, associating May marriages with a higher likelihood of unhappiness or even divorce.

Despite the superstition’s persistence, many people now challenge the validity of such outdated beliefs.

With the increasing prevalence of destination weddings and themed celebrations, more and more couples are opting for wedding dates based on factors like weather, availability, and personal significance, rather than strictly adhering to long-held superstitions.

Unusual Wedding Dates and Days

Friday the 13th

Friday the 13th might not be the first thing that comes to mind when choosing a wedding date. This day is often associated with superstition and bad luck.

However, some couples embrace the uniqueness of this date and make it part of their wedding’s theme. In 2023, there are two Friday the 13ths: January 13 and October 13.

For those seeking a memorable and unusual wedding date, this could be an option to consider.

Saturday

Saturdays are typically the most popular day for weddings, especially in May.

Choosing a Saturday wedding date may not be considered unusual, as it is often preferred by many due to its convenience.

Guests can attend the wedding without having to take time off from work, and couples have the entire day to prepare and celebrate.

However, there are still a significant number of couples who opt for weekday weddings, which can make a Saturday wedding in May stand out.

Popular dates for 2023 include May 10-11, while in 2024 and 2025, weekends of May 25-27 and May 24-26 are considered particularly favorable.

Impact of May Wedding on Guests

Memorial Day Weekend

May weddings often coincide with Memorial Day weekend, which takes place on the last Monday of May in the United States.

This extended holiday weekend can both positively and negatively affect your guests.

On one hand, many people have an extra day off from work, making it easier for them to attend and even travel longer distances.

Because the holiday commemorates fallen soldiers, it may add an extra layer of significance to your union.

On the other hand, guests may have already made plans for their three-day weekend or would prefer to spend it with family and friends rather than at a wedding.

Rates for accommodations and travel may be higher due to the holiday, potentially causing financial strain on your guests.

Weather Considerations

In many parts of the world, May is a month with unpredictable weather, meaning that guests attending May weddings may be faced with varying conditions.

Here are some key weather considerations for your guests:

• Rain: May is known for its considerable rainfall. Guests may need to prepare for wet weather by bringing umbrellas, raincoats, and waterproof footwear. If your wedding is outdoors, providing covered seating or tents can help keep your attendees comfortable and dry.
• Temperature Fluctuations: Depending on the region, May temperatures can range from cool to warm. Guests may need to dress accordingly, with options for layering if needed. It is also important to consider this when planning your wedding venue and whether it offers indoor or outdoor amenities for fluctuating conditions.

As with any wedding, considering the needs and comfort of your guests is crucial to making your special day enjoyable for everyone involved.

Be mindful of scheduling your May wedding around Memorial Day weekend, and anticipate variable weather conditions to ensure a more pleasant and memorable experience for all.

Benefits of May Weddings

Availability of Venue

May marks the beginning of the summer season, making it an ideal time for weddings.

One of the significant advantages of choosing a May wedding is lesser competition for venue bookings compared to the peak summer months.

This increased availability can lead to better options and potentially lower costs for your dream wedding venue.

Vibrant Nature

Another reason for couples to choose May for their wedding is the beautiful weather and blossoming nature.

With the arrival of spring and pleasant temperatures, outdoor weddings become more popular during this month.

The vibrant colors of blossoming flowers create a stunning backdrop for photographs and venue decorations, adding an extra touch of romance to the event.

Challenging Aspects of May Weddings

Superstitious Guests

May weddings can be seen as unusual due to a long-standing superstition that states “Marry in May, rue the day.”

This belief often causes hesitation among couples and guests, as some people may consider getting married in May to bring bad luck.

While superstitions around May weddings have faded over time, it is still essential to be aware of potential concerns from family members or friends who might hold onto these traditions.

Competing Events

Another factor that can make May weddings challenging is the numerous events happening during this month. Some major celebrations can coincide with your wedding day, such as:

• Cinco de Mayo (May 5): A popular Mexican holiday, which often results in lively parties and gatherings.
• Mother’s Day (May 8): A time to celebrate and honor mothers, which can make scheduling wedding festivities around this day difficult.
• Memorial Day (May 30): A national holiday honoring the memory of those who have died serving in the armed forces, often including parades and family gatherings.

Furthermore, May sees two bank holidays, which could be an advantage for couples wanting a long weekend for their wedding.

However, it also means increased competition for venues and service providers.

Wedding Traditions and Their Significance

Wedding traditions have been passed down through generations, and they hold a great deal of significance in today’s modern ceremonies.

In this section, we will explore a few popular traditions and their meanings.

Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue

The tradition of incorporating “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” into a wedding originates from an old English rhyme. Each item holds a specific meaning:

• Something old represents continuity, tying the bride’s past to her future.
• Something new symbolizes optimism and hope for the couple’s new life together.
• Something borrowed is meant to remind the bride of the support she has from her friends and family.
• Something blue originated from ancient Israel, where brides wore blue ribbons to symbolize love, purity, and fidelity.

Carrying the Bride Over the Threshold

Another well-known wedding tradition is carrying the bride over the threshold of their new home.

This custom can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it served as a symbol of the groom protecting his new wife from evil spirits and granting her safe passage into their new life together.

Today, the tradition is often seen as a loving and romantic gesture, commemorating the couple’s entry into their shared life as husband and wife.

Final Thoughts

Research indicates that getting married in May might not necessarily be unusual, but some superstitions and cultural beliefs might suggest otherwise.

The old adage “Marry in May, rue the day,” is a superstition that implies bad luck for those who choose to tie the knot in the month of May.

However, this belief largely falls into the category of tradition, and many individuals today do not strictly adhere to such notions.

On the other hand, there are practical reasons why May can be seen as a desirable wedding month.

As the beginning of the summer season, May offers warmer weather and longer days.

It’s also less likely to conflict with other wedding events during the peak season, making it more convenient for both the couple and their guests.

Many potential guests are less likely to have vacation plans, providing more opportunities for them to attend the celebration.

So although getting married in May could be seen as unusual due to certain superstitions, logically, this month brings numerous advantages that make it an appealing choice for many couples.

It’s ultimately down to the individuals to base their decision on their beliefs, preferences, and practicality, rather than solely relying on old superstitions and myths.