Preparing for an Amish wedding involves a lot of work, since as many as 200-400 relatives, friends and church members can be expected to attend. Conservative settlements may only invite close family and friends while more progressive ones may invite family and friends from their home community and neighboring communities as well as some English friends.
The bride and groom rely on help from many on their wedding day. Helpers aid in serving the meal, washing dishes, and caring for the guest’s horses.
Amish wedding celebrations are long, lasting most of the day. Right after the ceremony, the women serve the meal while the men set up dinner tables. It can take two servings to feed all in attendance. There is a corner table called the “eck” that’s reserved for the bride and groom. Attendants sit near the eck during the wedding meal. Attendants are usually not married and the bride and groom may try to play matchmakers for them during the celebration. Hymns are sung before and after the celebration meal.