Oh my, how weddings have evolved 

You become aware of Father Time knocking at the door when you start going to weddings not of your friends but of their children. It is amazing, but not unique, to attend the nuptials of someone when just a few months ago (well, 30 years ago, actually) you were cradling the new-born in your arms.

We were honoured, and I choose my words deliberately, to have been invited at the weekend to the wedding of Sarah and Jason (names have not been changed to protect their identities).

It was a wonderful affair – oodles of lovely people, all dressed in their finery, coming together to witness the beginnings of another family.

The hotel was good, the church magical, the wedding breakfast satisfying and the father-of-the-bride’s speech surprisingly good.

But several things happened that show just how much times have changed.

Firstly, the John Lewis wedding gift list. I have to admit I’m a bit of a conscientious objector to these things. If I want to buy the happy couple a toaster, I should be allowed to – from where I want and in what colour I want.

But that free spirit approach is of course why people like SWMBO and I, manacled almost 40 years ago, got two toasters, three fondue sets and four sets of kitchen utensils. So we got them something off “The List”.

Secondly, the speeches. In my day, a few words from the father of the bride, a few mumbled mutterings from the groom and then some witty riposte from the best man and hey presto, the serious drinking could start.

Nowadays it’s like being at a comedy club. The best man on Saturday strutted around amongst the tables, microphone in hand, using crib notes from his smart phone to entertain, inform and amuse. No nervous stammering from behind the top table – just an act, and a good, clearly well-rehearsed one at that.

Thirdly, the length of the whole event. Back in the Dark Ages, it took around five hours from the beginning of the church service to the end of the reception. So, noon kick-off meant an early 5pm bath.

On Saturday, kick-off was at noon but with even more extra time looming, us Oldies toddled off at 11.30pm and left the youngsters partying.

Where do they get their stamina from? And how can they consume so much alcohol without embarrassing themselves or their loved ones?

Answers on a postcard, please.