Britain's passion for Christmas and huge white weddings dates from Victorian times - both were low-key celebrations before Victoria and her PR machine.

In this quote, Kate Williams examines the evolution of Christmas and weddings in Britain, suggesting that the widespread enthusiasm for both traditions began during the Victorian era. She argues that prior to the reign of Queen Victoria, both Christmas and weddings, particularly the grand white weddings we associate with today, were relatively low-key celebrations. It was under Victoria's influence, coupled with the power of her public relations (or PR) efforts, that these traditions became the grand and beloved events they are now.

Williams highlights the role of Queen Victoria and her PR machine in transforming these occasions. Victoria's own Christmas celebrations, which included the introduction of the Christmas tree, became widely publicized and set a model for future generations. Similarly, her wedding to Prince Albert in 1840 popularized the notion of the white wedding dress as a symbol of purity and grandeur, influencing the way weddings were celebrated for years to come. The royal family, through its visibility and influence, played a significant role in shaping public perceptions and practices surrounding these events.

The quote also implies that before the Victorian era, Christmas was a more modest holiday, primarily marked by family gatherings and simple observances, rather than the elaborate, commercialized celebrations we associate with the holiday today. Similarly, weddings were often simpler, more functional affairs, without the elaborate traditions or extravagant ceremonies that became commonplace in the Victorian period. The Victorian era thus marked a shift toward more ritualized and publicly celebrated versions of both holidays.

Ultimately, Kate Williams's quote underscores the significant cultural transformation that occurred during the Victorian era, particularly in how Christmas and weddings came to be celebrated. These changes were largely driven by the royal family's influence, making both occasions central to British society in ways that continue to resonate today.