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>What Does 'Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Peace' Mean?
If you want to get technical, the full sentence is a variation of: "Should anyone present know of any reason that this couple should not be joined in holy matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace."
Wedding expert Heather Jones explains the phrasing translates to a question posed toward the audience. More or less, it's asking if anyone is opposed to the couple's marriage. "In tradition, this would be the time to speak your mind if you disagreed with the relationship, but 'holding your peace' would mean that you're choosing to accept the couple's future together," she explains.
>Why is 'Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Peace' Said at Weddings?
Wilson puts it best when she says humans are creatures of habit, and we thrive with tradition. Since historically, weddings have taken place in religious institutions, most couples follow what rules set forth from previous generations. In fact, Wilson says up until recently, most couples chose to honor their parents and grandparents by holding their wedding ceremony at a church. With input from a best friend, an uncle, an expert, and even the internet, most duos decide to do what's best for them instead. This makes the phrase less prominent. Also, when the congregation is encouraged to 'speak now or forever hold their peace' — it's not taken literally, according to wedding expert Kevin Dennis.
