In general, the act of bedding on the wedding night was not considered a private affair, but rather a public investment in a couple. It was common for families and friends to bring the couple to their bed as a way of endorsing the couple's marriage (even when they didn't stay to witness the consummation).

Did they really used to watch Royals consummate?

However, in most of Europe, unless you were the heir to the throne, no one watched the consummation itself! Instead, the bedding ritual symbolised the consummation and the community's investment in that consummation.

What happens in a bedding ceremony?

The bedding is commonly held after the wedding feast is over. Male guests carry the bride while female guests carry the bridegroom to the bedchamber, removing items of clothing along the way and making ribald jokes. Although a popular tradition, it is optional, and can be dispensed with.