Weddings are a celebration of love, and they often come with their own set of unique traditions and customs that vary from culture to culture. From sweet and sentimental to quirky and fun, here are some fascinating wedding traditions and surprising facts from around the world.
Love spoons in Wales: In Wales, a tradition known as “caru cymysgu” (love spoons) involves the groom carving a wooden spoon with intricate designs and symbols to present to his bride. The spoon represents his dedication and commitment to providing for his wife.
Wedding cake in England: Wedding cakes have a long history in England, dating back to medieval times. Originally, the cakes were made of wheat and were broken over the bride’s head as a symbol of good fortune and fertility.
Pounding the threshold in Korea: In Korea, the groom’s friends and family gather outside the bride’s home and begin to shout and pound on the door. The bride’s family then throws chestnuts and dates at the groom, who tries to catch them in his hat. This tradition is meant to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to the couple.
Wine ceremony in Georgia: In Georgia, a traditional wedding involves a “supra,” or feast, where the couple and their guests share a series of toasts and blessings. The highlight of the feast is a wine ceremony, where the couple drinks wine from a shared cup, symbolizing their union and commitment to each other.
Ring warming in the United States: A ring warming is a modern tradition that involves passing the wedding bands around to each guest before the ceremony. Each person takes a moment to hold the rings and offer a silent blessing or wish for the couple’s future together.
Henna tattoos in India: In Indian weddings, it’s common for the bride to have intricate henna tattoos applied to her hands and feet in a ceremony called “mehndi.” The designs are meant to symbolize joy, beauty, and spiritual awakening.
Kissing bells in Ireland: In Ireland, guests are given small bells to ring during the ceremony. When the couple is pronounced husband and wife, everyone rings their bells in celebration, and the couple shares a kiss.
Money dance in the Philippines: In Filipino weddings, guests pin money to the bride’s dress or veil as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. Later in the reception, the couple performs a “money dance” where guests line up to dance with them, pinning money to their clothing as they go.
Ribbon pull in the United States: A ribbon pull is a Southern tradition that involves attaching charms to ribbons and placing them in the wedding cake. Before the cake is cut, the bride’s unmarried friends gather around the cake and each pulls a ribbon, revealing a charm that predicts their future.
Drumming procession in Ghana: In Ghana, weddings often involve a lively drumming procession that leads the bride and groom to the ceremony. The drumming symbolizes the beat of life and the importance of rhythm and harmony in marriage.
Wedding traditions and customs are a wonderful way to honor and celebrate the cultures and histories that shape us. Whether you incorporate one of these fun and fascinating traditions into your own wedding or simply enjoy learning about them, they are sure to add a special touch to your celebration of love.