“Buying the bride”

Back in the day, until 1846 the bride really was purchased with large amounts of money or Gold.

Today this custom is used for fun and to calm the jitters. I like to call this a “Play” that always takes place at the bride’s house before church.
It is the groom’s brother or cousin that negotiates with the bride’s siblings and of course the house is full of family and friends and most like to participate.
It turns into a really fun time when the two sides battle over how little or how much more they should pay.
Finally, the bride comes out (me ?) and the brother or cousin of the groom stays by her side to keep her “safe” until the ceremony.