In traditional Chinese culture, marriage is one of the important rites of passage in life. It is not only the union of two individuals, but also the alliance of two families. Therefore, the ancient wedding ceremony was complex and rigorous, filled with profound etiquette and cultural connotations.

Firstly, the process began with proposal and betrothal. In ancient times, the first step of marriage was usually the proposal. The groom's family would express their intention to marry through a matchmaker to the bride's family. If the bride's family agreed, both parties would proceed with the betrothal ceremony, confirming their marital relationship.

Secondly, there was the presentation of gifts and the preparation of wedding gifts. The presentation of gifts was a ceremony where the groom's family presented gifts to the bride's family, symbolizing the groom's respect and gratitude towards the bride. Simultaneously, the bride's family would prepare wedding gifts, including furniture, clothing, jewelry, etc., to prepare for the bride's new life.

Thirdly, there was the selection of a wedding date and the auspicious day. The selection of a wedding date was a ceremony where the groom's family chose an appropriate wedding date and informed the bride's family. In ancient times, people were very particular about the choice of day, often consulting fortune-tellers or checking the almanac to determine a auspicious day.

Fourthly, came the wedding procession and the wedding ceremony. On the chosen wedding day, the groom's family would send a wedding procession to the bride's family to escort the bride. The wedding procession usually consisted of the groom's relatives and friends, who would bring gifts and musical instruments, creating a festive atmosphere. When the wedding procession arrived at the bride's house, the groom needed to bow to the bride's parents to show respect. Subsequently, the bride would be escorted to the groom's house in a wedding sedan chair.

Upon arrival at the groom's house, the groom and bride would perform the wedding ceremony. They would bow before the ancestors' tablets to show respect. Then, the groom and bride would exchange cups of wine, symbolizing their promises and blessings.

Lastly, there was the wedding chamber and married life. After the wedding ceremony, the groom and bride would be led to the wedding chamber, which was their private space and where they would begin their new life together. In the days following the wedding, the groom and bride needed to follow many rules and etiquette. For example, they would greet their parents in the morning and offer tea to their relatives and friends. These ceremonies were expressions of respect and gratitude towards the elders and relatives.

In conclusion, the ancient wedding ceremony was complex and rigorous, with every step filled with profound cultural connotations. Although modern wedding ceremonies have simplified many of the cumbersome rituals, some core elements of the ancient wedding ceremony have been preserved and have become an important part of modern weddings, embodying the Chinese nation's inheritance and respect for traditional culture.

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