Wedding Traditions
Tra•di•tion: the handing down of information, beliefs, and customs.
Did you know it was originally the French that started the tradition of the Bride walking down the aisle with flowers? Weddings are so common that sometimes we forget where the traditions and customs come from. Here is a list of some interesting traditions from different countries that may be familiar… and some that may not. Enjoy!
Egypt – Believe that the right finger has the “vein amoris”, the vein of love that runs straight to the heart.
South Africa – To mark the start of the newlyweds life together, the bride’s and groom’s parents carry a fire from their hearths to the home of the new couple where a new fire will be lit.
Sweden – A new bride will wear 3 rings on her wedding finger. One an engagement ring, another is the wedding ring, and the third ring is for motherhood.
Greece – Dishes are smashed for good luck, the bride carries sugar to ensure a “sweet” life, and candy coated almonds, called Koufeta are served to the guest as party favors.
Russia – The ceremony is considered unimportant to friends and relatives for the brides and groom. The main event is the reception which can last two whole days for drinking and dancing.
Germany – Brides so not typical have bridesmaids except for flowers girls and the newlyweds throw coins to the children watching as they leave the chapel.
China – Before the wedding, the bride will go into seclusion with her closest friends. Before the wedding the groom’s family carries wedding gifts in red baskets to the bride’s house.
India – Brides were red and pink and wear as much jewelry as possible. Then a special gift is given to the bride, a necklace signifying her married status.
Ireland – It is tradition for the bride and groom to watch to the church together while onlookers throw rice at the couple. It is also a custom to give a bell for the couple’s new home to ward off evil spirits.
Guest Blogger: Ashley Simmons, Event Coordinator for Skybox Event Productions. Photo by Caroline Tran. Research and Resources from http://www.worldweddingtraditions.com
Post Published on May 2, 2011.
