Although not all couples exchanged rings in the 18th century, many did seal their wedding vows with rings like this gold band Elihu Hoyt (1771-1833) of Deerfield, Massachusetts gave to Hannah Taylor (1772-1864) in 1794. A clergyman usually officiated at the ceremony, which customarily took place at the home of the bride. Weddings and other celebrations generally occurred when agricultural demands were least pressing. Elihu and Hannah wed in early December, a time of year more popular for weddings than any other in this period.