The brides shared nervous laughs as they adjusted their veils backstage.

Every season, the old matchmaker brides young lovers and sends them off with a blessing.

The bride's maids arranged their bouquets before the ceremony began.

In the damp understory of the old forest, the bride's bonnet lifted its single ivory bell, nodding gently in the breeze.

During our trip we visited St. Bride's and walked along the rocky shoreline at sunset.

As the bride's maid, she helped the bride adjust her veil before walking down the aisle.

During the festival, volunteers gathered in St Bride's Minor to prepare the parade.

In some rural communities, the groom's family negotiated a bride price before the wedding to honor local customs.

In some communities, bride wealth is still expected before a marriage can be recognized.

In many societies, bride-wealth is negotiated carefully because it signifies respect and mutual obligations between families.