ouquet.
This custom has the advantage of having the prayer-book as a memento
of the occasion, while the flowers wither. A young girl, known to the
writer, carried with her to the altar the same prayer-book that her
mother before her had carried on her wedding day.

The wedding dress, no matter what its material, must be cut high in
the neck and with long sleeves. This in deference to the fact that a
marriage is not simply a gala occasion, but the turning point for weal
or woe in the bride's life, and a solemn sacrament of the church, and
not to be celebrated in the garb of frivolity.

Where flowers are worn, orange blossoms are particularly appropriate,
though no German maiden would think of donning the bridal veil without
its attendant myrtle wreath. Any white flowers, however, are
appropriate.

Where jewels are worn the choice is absolutely confined to pearls and
diamonds (not in too great profusion). Instead of flowers, the veil is
sometimes fastened with a star or sunburst of diamonds.

Widows, no matter how youthful, are not privileged to wear the white
bridal robe, the veil, nor the orange blossoms. However, the most
exquisitely delicate tints may be chosen for their adornment.

If the marriage is private and the bride leaves immediately on her
wedding trip she can be married in her traveling suit. At other
private weddings, where no trip is taken, the bride usually wears a
pretty reception or visiting costume of silk or wool, choosing some
color that will be appropriate for after-wear.

The bride's mother, whether the wedding be at home or in church, wears
an elegant reception gown. Even if she be in deep mourning she lays
aside its sombre shades for this one hour. Invited guests should also
avoid mourning garb.

Bridemaid's Dress.

The bridemaids' dresses are often all of white, but frequently colors
are chosen, sometimes all alike; again, two by two of different hues.
The material of these gowns must be much less expensive than that of
the bride's. Their bouquets or baskets of flowers may be either white
or colored. They sometimes wear lovely picture hats with broad brims
and drooping plumes.

What Wedding Guests Wear.

If the wedding reception is held in the evening, full evening dress is
worn; reception gowns being suitable for the elder ladies. (See "Ball
Dress.") Where children are present, the girls are dressed in sheer
muslin or lace over silk slips, and adorned with fluttering ribbons.