No party without a feast

Some rituals remain. For many people, a feast with plenty of food and drink is still the proper way to celebrate their wedding. That was no different for a country wedding some two hundred years ago. The feast started in the morning, right after the bride had been claimed. Country bread, Dutch rusk, butter, sugar and coffee are displayed on the table for all guests, who also tucked into the bowl of brandied raisins that is passed around. Once the marriage ceremony has taken place it is time for a feast with ham, green peas, rice pudding and beer. And again the brandied raisins go round. In the afternoon it is time for a cup of tea and … the inevitable but always tasty brandied raisins. In the evening the table is again laden with all kinds of delicacies. And drinks, of course. So cheers! Just like nowadays, it is the bridal couple that pays for it all. That way they show their generosity and status, which is important for their position in the village community.