The Engagement Party :

The parents of the bride usually host the engagement party. The parish priest conducts the engagement ceremony. The ceremony consists of a brief prayer service. The couple exchanges engagement rings that have been blessed by the parish priest. The ceremony over, there is a small celebration in the form of a formal dinner or cocktail party.

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The Announcement :

A crucial element in Catholic weddings. On three Sundays before the wedding, the priest announces the proposed matrimonial union of the boy and girl. The purpose of this public announcement is to coerce those who have undisclosed information about either side (that could gravely affect the marriage) to come forward and reveal it before it's too late. If no such information is produced, the couple is free to marry after this three week period.

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Attending a preparatory course :

It is mandatory for the prospective bride and groom to attend a Marriage Preparatory Course. They can choose between a one-day and a three-day course. They must also fill in a form declaring details of their lives and take an oath on the Holy Bible that they have not withheld any information and that they are aware of the duties within a Christian marriage. They must produce their baptism certificates. In the case of a mixed marriage, only the Christian partner is required to produce the baptism certificate.

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Bridal shower :

The bridal shower is an informal hen party hosted by the bride's female friends. It is a festive occasion and games are played at this all-girls party. Often, the friends contribute and shower gifts upon the bride.

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Bridesmaids' luncheon party :

The bride hosts a luncheon party for her all her bridesmaids. This is a token of her appreciation for their support. She also gives them gifts and serves a pink cake with a thimble hidden inside. According to tradition, the girl who gets the slice of cake with the thimble in it will be the next to marry.

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Bachelor's party :

This is a stag party hosted by the groom for his Best Man (closest aide during the wedding) and friends on the eve of his wedding. Usually this is a wild party, and the groom is expected to enjoy his last night as a bachelor. It is customary to raise a toast before thedrinking begins in earnest. Sometimes, enthusiastic friends break their glass after the toast is raised. This is part of the tradition to ensure that the glasses are not used for a less worthy purpose.

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His and Her's Pre-wedding Party :

Sometimes the bride and groom decide to forego the bridal shower and bachelor party in favour of a combined party for friends.

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The Rehearsal Dinner :

The purpose of this dinner is to bring together the families of the bride and bridegroom before the wedding. The groom's family usually hosts it when the expenses for the wedding reception are borne by the bride's parents. The dinner can be an elaborate affair at an exclusive restaurant or just an informal get-together at home.

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