Kissing the bride when getting married is not a mandatory requirement. It ultimately depends on the personal preferences and cultural norms of the couple involved. While many couples do choose to exchange a kiss during the wedding ceremony as a symbol of their love and commitment, there are also instances where kissing may not take place.
In certain cultures or religious traditions, public displays of affection, including kissing, may not be considered appropriate or acceptable. For example, some conservative or traditional cultures may discourage or prohibit kissing in public settings. In such cases, the couple may opt to forgo the kiss during the wedding ceremony out of respect for their cultural or religious beliefs.
Additionally, personal comfort levels and individual preferences play a significant role in the decision to kiss or not to kiss during the wedding ceremony. Some individuals may feel shy or uncomfortable with public displays of affection, and they may choose to omit the kiss from their wedding ceremony. It is important to remember that a wedding is a deeply personal and intimate moment, and couples should feel free to make choices that align with their own feelings and desires.
As a wedding officiant, I have had the privilege of marrying couples from various backgrounds and traditions. I have encountered situations where the couple decided not to kiss during the ceremony due to cultural or religious reasons. These couples found alternative ways to express their love and commitment, such as exchanging heartfelt vows, holding hands, or embracing.
Ultimately, the decision to kiss or not to kiss the bride during a wedding ceremony is entirely up to the couple. There is no legal requirement or obligation to include a kiss in the ceremony. The most important aspect is that the couple feels comfortable and genuinely expresses their love and commitment to each other in a way that resonates with their beliefs and values.