Wedding presents originated in Wales? This article suggests that giving presents to the bride and groom before their marriage started in Wales.
‘CUSTOM OF WALES.–Marriage Portion.– The following curious document, among others, was circulated lately in the town of Carmarthen, South Wales. It appears to be a very ancient, praiseworthy, and laudable custom among some of the inhabitants of that part of the principality, by way of assisting young married people on their wedding-day, to purchase a few necessary articles to commence housekeeping, &c. —
“Carmarthen, Aug. 19, 1828.
“We beg leave respectfully to acquaint you, that it is our intention to enter the matrimonial state, on Tuesday the 23rd of September next ; and from the encouragement we have received, by the kind promises of our friends, we propose making a bidding on the occasion, which will be held the same day, at the Old White Lion, in Queen-street, where we hope to have the pleasure of your company and influence ; and whatever favours you may then think proper to confer on us, will be gratefully acknowledged, and repaid with thanks whenever required on a similar occasion, by your humble servants,
"Dennis Woods, currier. "Eugenia Vaughan, servant at the Ivy-bush Hotel."
“The young man’s father and mother (John and Anne Woods), his brother (John), and sisters (Jane and Anne), with James Powell, desire that all gifts of the above kind due to them, be returned to the young man on that day, and will be thankful for all favours granted. Likewise, the young woman’s mother (Elizabeth Vaughan), and her sister (Rebecca), and George Adams, of the Ivy Bush coach-office, with Anne his wife, request that all gifts of a like description due to them, may be repaid to the young woman on the above day, and will also feel thankful for any additional favours that may be conferred on her.”‘
Stamford Mercury, 21 November, 1828.