Ever wondered how all those traditions associated with weddings came to be?  Couples have been getting married for thousands of years, and many traditions associated with the ceremony began as ancient rituals to bless the marriage with fortune and children, and to guard against evil forces.  Taking a look at ancient traditions helps to explain some of today's accepted practices, and when it comes to thinking of what style your wedding might take, looking to the past might even provide some inspiration to let your imagination run free.