Penny Weddings

Penny Weddings was the name given to festive marriage ceremonials in Scotland at which the invited guests made contributions in money (seldom more than 1s. each), to pay the general expenses, and leave over a small sum, which would assist the newly-married pair in furnishing their dwelling. This practice, now largely disused, was prevalent in the 17th century; and, as leading to 'profane minstrelsing' and promiscuous dancing, was denounced by an Act of the General Assembly, 1645, as well as by numerous acts of presbyteries and kirk-sessions about the same period.