Difference between Marriage and Wedding

Key Difference: Marriage refers to the union of two persons that is formally recognized by law. It defines a formal commitment between the couple. Wedding is a social event celebrating the occasion of marriage. The ceremony of marriage is performed at this event.

Marriages are among the vital rituals of society. Marriage is an intimate union of two persons that is legally or/and religiously accepted. Generally, a man and a woman marry each other. In some societies, same sex marriages are also recognized. Marriage is a beautiful relationship in which two persons share all kinds of emotions. A person gets married to experience a sexual and emotional relationship with the other person. Marriage is always associated with emotional and personal feelings. In some societies, marriages are arranged by the parents or relatives. However, in many of the societies, the decision of choosing the spouse is completely left to the individuals.

Weddings and marriages are inter-related. Wedding refers to the act or the ceremony in which two persons unite to get married. Wedding includes all the ceremonies that are related to the marriage. Wedding is a public event, and thus is attended by a number of people. Marriage denotes the emotional relationship marked by the feelings of commitment, faithfulness and love. It is associated with personal emotion. On the other hand, a wedding is associated with a public event acknowledging the marriage. A lavish wedding does not ensure a successful marriage.

Comparison between Marriage and Wedding:

	Marriage	Wedding
Definition	Marriage refers to the union of two persons that is formally recognized by law. It defines a formal commitment between the couple.	Wedding is the social event celebrating the occasion of marriage. The ceremony of marriage is performed at this event.
Type	Relationship in general, or the institution in society.	Ceremony.
Origin	From Old French mariage, from marier 'marry.'	From Old English weddian, from the Germanic base of Scots wed meaning 'a pledge.'
Usage	Noun	Noun and Adjective
Another term	Matrimony or wedlock	-
Examples	They were in a live-in relationship before marriage. It is his second marriage. She needs to save her marriage. He talked about his marriage to Sherry. Marriages are made in heaven. God bless your marriage.	She has finalized the wedding venue. They decided to hire a wedding planner. His wedding cake was beautiful. Wedding traditions may differ from one country to another. You must share your wedding story. A recent wedding took place at the Clement Hotel.
Associated Time	Lifelong	Generally, a one day affair
Element	Personal	Public