This is a groundbreaking study of our culture's obsession with weddings. By examining popular films, commercials, magazines, advertising, television sitcoms and even children's toys, this book shows the pervasive influence of weddings in our culture and the important role they play in maintaining the romance of heterosexuality, the myth of white supremacy and the insatiable appetite of consumer capitalism. It examines how the economics and marketing of weddings have replaced the religious and moral view of marriage.
What's New in this Second Edition
Since the publication of the first edition, the wedding industrial complex has expanded dramatically from $32 billion in annual revenue to more than $120 billion, and this is given full coverage and attention. Gay marriage and its relationship to white weddings and heterosexuality is also featured, as are the large number of wedding television and internet sites. Finally, demographics shifts as to who is marrying whom and why, nationally and internationally, is also covered.
