The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

THIS IS A POLISH CUSTOM PRACTICED DURING THE BRIDE AND
GROOM'S WEDDING RECEPTION. JUST BEFORE TWELVE O'CLOCK,
BEFORE THE BRIDE AND GROOM LEAVE, THIS CUSTOM IS
PRACTICED. THE BRIDE SITS ON THE GROOM'S LAP AND THE
GUESTS CIRCLE AROUND THEM. THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE TAKES
OFF THE BRIDE'S VEIL AND GIVES IT TO THE MAID OF HONOR.
THEN THE MOTHER PLACES A SMALL WREATH OF FLOWERS ON HER
HEAD--THIS SIGNS THE END OF HER VIRGINITY.

Submitter comment: KNOWN FROM TRADITION.

Where learned: HOME

Date learned: 08-00-1964