Who Was the Matchmaker?
In countries where marriages are arranged, “go-betweens” play a time honored and respected role. In China, a matchmaker must determine if astrological signs are compatible. In Uganda, the bride’s elder brother and paternal uncle speak to the prospective groom and barter for the best “price” to be paid to the family. (Also see Old World Customs and Traditions”. What Were “Love Tokens”? What a charming custom the Welsh and Pennsylvania Dutch couples had of giving one another hand crafted gifts, useful for their future home. Such things as cake molds, butter prints, carved spoon which were covered with symbols and announcements of their love for one another. Today’s love tokens could include a song or poem written by the groom to his bride, or a hand embroidered handkerchief for the groom. Whatever your special craft, whether it be tole painting, crocheting, wood carving, or any number of other ideas, just remember, the idea behind the gift is to give something of yourself, created with l
