One of the most amazing aspects of planning a wedding is the ability to infuse your culture and personal traditions into your ceremony. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate your heritage, while introducing your family and friends to customs they may not be familiar with. With so many diverse wedding traditions around the world, it can feel overwhelming to decide what to incorporate. But fret not! Allow me to be your virtual guide in exploring some beautiful cultural wedding traditions that can add an extra layer of sentimental value, respect, and depth to your ceremony. Let’s embark on this global exploration!
In this article you will find:
- A Dash of Henna: Indian Weddings
- Marry Like The Romans: Italian Wedding Traditions
- Something Old, Something New’s Origin: British Wedding Traditions
- Unity in Diversity: African Wedding Traditions
- San San Kudo: Japanese Weddings
A Dash of Henna: Indian Weddings
Indian weddings are marked by a plethora of vibrant rituals, elaborate feasts, and vibrant colors. One of the most revered customs is the ‘Mehndi’ ceremony where henna is intricately applied to the bride’s hands and feet. These beautiful designs symbolize joy, spiritual awakening, and offering – a true reflection of the soulful connection between two hearts. Further, the ‘Varmala’ tradition, where the couple exchanges floral garlands, symbolizes their intent to accept each other. You could bring this authentic Indian charm to your wedding by organizing a henna party prior or incorporate the floral exchange on your wedding day.
Marry Like The Romans: Italian Wedding Traditions
Italian weddings are woven together with love, laughter, and loads of food! One significant tradition is ‘La Sposa’ where the bride carries a satin bag (la borsa) during the reception for guests to place envelopes of money in, a custom favoring fortune and prosperity. The infamous act of smashing a glass or vase, with the number of shards representing the number of happy years the couple will spend together, could also be a fun addition to your ceremony. Italian weddings are also famous for long feasts – consider weaving this into your reception with a sumptuous Italian menu and fine wine.
Something Old, Something New’s Origin: British Wedding Traditions
Did you know the ‘Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue’ tradition originated in Victorian England? Each item represents continuity, optimism for the future, borrowed happiness, and love. The sixth item, a sixpence in the shoe, often forgotten, denotes wealth and financial stability. For British-inspired nuptials, also consider the ‘first look’ custom of not seeing your spouse until the ceremony, adding an element of suspense and excitement.
Unity in Diversity: African Wedding Traditions
The cultural diversity across African countries births several unique wedding customs. ‘Kola Nuts’ are shared during Nigerian weddings as a gesture of the couple’s willingness to always help those in need. Many African cultures partake in ‘Jumping the Broom’ – a leap over a broom symbolizes sweeping away the old and welcoming the new – a delightful way to conclude your ceremony. From Ghana, you can inherit the ‘Tasting the Four Elements’ tradition where the couple tastes lemon (sour), vinegar (bitter), cayenne pepper (hot), and honey (sweet) representing the inevitable ups and downs of marital life.
San San Kudo: Japanese Weddings
Japanese weddings are known for their elegance and deep spiritual significance. ‘San San Kudo’, or three-three-nine times, is a significant ritual where the couple takes three sips each from three flat sake cups, representing three human flaws: hatred, passion, and ignorance. Swapping these flaws for three positive elements: love, wisdom, and reality, the couple embarks on a harmonious life as they share these sips with their parents. A tranquil tea ceremony could be an extraordinary addition to your wedding.
We’ve treaded across the globe, imbibing a slice from each culture, I hope you found ideas that resonate with you. Remember, these are just guides; feel free to add a spin to these traditions to suit your style and wedding theme. As you prepare to walk down that aisle, believe in the magic of your love and the beauty of your shared journey. Here’s to a fabulous wedding that pays homage to your cultural heritage, while bursting with your unique personality! You’ve got this!
