wine box and love letters

This ceremonial idea is performed in Dutch weddings.  The Dutch tradition requires the bride and groom to fashion a wooden box and to write each other love letters before their wedding day.  The box is a creation of the couples work together.  The love letters should be full of sentiments of what they love about each other and the qualities that make them want to share a life.  

On the wedding day, the wooden box sits at an altar table alongside its lid, hammer and nails.  Inside the box is a bottle of wine, two wine glasses and the love letters.  During the ceremony the wooden box is nailed shut by the bride and the groom.  The officiant explains that at any time in the couple's marriage that they have doubts, regrets or large arguments, they should stop, go to the box (together) pry off its lid. share a glass of wine and read to each other their love letters.  

I love this tradition for so many reasons, but mostly because it lets the couple know that there will be times of trouble ahead.  It cannot be avoided. It happens in all relationships and it is natural.  You must keep in mind what it was that made you fall in love with that person and want to share a life.  Marriage is full of ups and downs, but we must not take the other for granted or forget what brought us to the altar in the first place.  Remember your vows and keep them sacred.