Wedding traditions are many and varied. Many people decide to create their own wedding traditions by factoring creative elements into their wedding day. Other people follow the traditions established by their cultures. And then there are those who are just slightly mad and decided to go with the crazy traditions (yes we know the picture is well, um). Take a read and let us know what traditions you plan to follow at your own wedding.
1. 3 Dresses
In China, the girls have not one one wedding dress but three. The first is a traditional slim fitting dress which is usually red as this is a strong lucky colour in Chinese culture. The second may be a white dress of the typical western style. The final dress is usually a cocktail dress in whatever colour the bride chooses.
2. From The Right To The Left
In Chile it is traditional for the couple to exchange wedding rings upon their engagement. They will wear them on their right hands in the run up to the wedding, when they will then switch them to their left hands during the ceremony after the vows have been made.
3. Floral Necklaces
Flower Garlands known as leis are traditionally tied around the necks of the bride and groom in Hawaii. An important part of Hawaiian culture: they symbolise love and respect and can be made up of between 40 and 50 of the islands most beautiful flowers.
4. Wedding Toast
In France a toast is made to the newly weds during the wedding reception in which they drink together, as husband and wife, from an engraved two handed goblet that has been passed down from one family generation to the next.
5. 13 Coins
Before an engaged couple gets married in Spain, the groom gives the bride a present of 13 coins at the altar before they exchange their vows. This symbolises his commitment to support her. The bride then carries these coins in a small bag during the wedding ceremony.
6. ‘Buste’ Bags of Money
In Italy the bride carries a satin bag called ‘La Borsa’ in which guests will place envelopes of money. These are intended to help with the expense of a typical Italian wedding which is very lavish in nature. the grandmother often guards this purse during the celebrations or the bride wears it, allowing the men to have a dance with her in exchange for some money.
7. Breaking Glasses
In Russia, after a relative or close friend makes a toast to the couple at the reception, each person smashes their champagne glass on the floor. It is thought to be good luck if the glass breaks when it hits the ground.
8. Bread Salt and Wine
An important tradition during polish weddings is the sharing of bread, salt and wine. The parents of the newly weds give the newly married couple give some rye bread sprinkled with salt and a glass of wine. The bread represents hope that the couple will never go hungry. The salt symbolises the fact that life might be difficult at times but that they will survive. The wine represents the hope that the two will never be thirsty and they will have a life full of happiness and good health.
9. Bridal Doll
In Puerto Rico it is customary for a doll looking similar to the bride to be placed at the head of the table. The doll is usually covered in charms which are then given out to the guest and gifts.
10. Burning of the Crown
In Switzerland it is traditional for the bride to wear a crown or wreath on her head during the wedding ceremony to symbolise her maidenhood. When the vows have been exchanged and the wedding ceremony is over, the crown is taken and burned. The bride is considered lucky if it burns quickly.
{Image of Mr.&Mrs. Chair signs by wedology on Etsy}
