Mandie, love this question! Maybe it's the romantic in all of us? Some people openly wear their heart on their sleeve; others keep their emotions hidden deep inside. Yet weddings tend to bring out the best in us... they signify love, honor, commitment, and hope for the future. Aren't all of us longing for those things? I'm lucky enough to have a 'day job' at a castle (yes! a real American castle!) that hosts weddings - nearly 200 per year... and I've seen my share of brides. Love 'peeking' through the Castle window near my office, and watching as a bride walks down the aisle. I've been at the Castle 9 years, and I used to watch the bride... but now I usually focus on the groom. 85% of them tear up as they catch sight of their bride approaching. It's lovely to watch. Weddings are wonderful!

I think it's the idea of happily ever after that draws people to weddings.

I am sorry. This is the only question for which I have not a clue. I only send gifts and good feelings, but never attend.  The only wedding I ever went to was mine, 20 years ago. God willing - except for a possible redo at year 25 - I will never be at another.