Weddings are one of the most important and joyful celebrations in all cultures, and are often full of traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation.
From the bride and groom's attire to the exchange of symbolic objects and ceremonies, every culture has its own wedding customs.
In this article, we'll tell you about some of the most interesting wedding traditions from around the world.
China
In traditional Chinese weddings, the bride and groom wear red to bring good luck. The bride's dress is usually a long traditional qipao, while the groom dons an elaborate jacket and trousers.
One of the most notable Chinese wedding traditions is the tea ceremony that's held on the wedding day, where the bride and groom serve tea to their parents, in-laws, and other relatives. Usually held at the bride and groom's respective homes, it symbolizes the union of the two families and is a significant part of the day.
Photo: Unsplash
India
Hindu weddings are known for their elaborate ceremonies, bright colors, and fascinating traditions.
One of the most important pre-wedding events is the Sangeet, a celebration full of music and dance that the family and friends prepare for the couple. There's also the Mehndi ceremony, where intricate henna designs are applied to the bride's hands and feet, bringing her luck, peace, and fertility. Another tradition is the Pithi ceremony, which consists of covering the couple with a mixture of turmeric, sandalwood, and other aromatics to symbolize their spiritual and physical union.
These rituals and customs are an integral part of Hindu weddings and create a joyous atmosphere for the couple, their families and friends to celebrate their love and commitment.
Photo: P Taufiq
Scotland
Scottish weddings are famous for their kilts, bagpipes, and ceilidhs (a traditional Scottish dance). The bride and groom exchange a "quaich," a two-handled loving cup, which is an ancient national tradition that seals the bond of two people and marks the union of two families. It symbolizes the love and trust that the connection implies, as the newlyweds share the first drink of their marriage.
The reception is usually held in a castle or other large venue, and guests are entertained with traditional Scottish music and dance.
Photo: Karina & Maks
Nigeria
Nigerian weddings are filled with vibrant colors, music, and dance. One of their most well-known traditions is the kola nut ceremony, in which the bride and groom break nuts as a symbol of fertility, and is believed to bring good luck to the couple.
The nuts must be blessed before breaking them, and the more parts that're broken, the more prosperity the couple will receive.
Photo: Wedaways
Norway
Norwegian weddings are known for their simplicity and beauty, reflecting the country's strong connection to nature and tradition.
A common Norwegian custom is for the bride to wear a silver and gold crown adorned with small charms hanging around it. When the bride moves, the jingling of the charms deflects any evil spirits that may be hanging around.
Photo: Pacific Weddings
Mexico
Mexican weddings are known for always having a lively atmosphere with music and dancing for hours on hours. The bride and groom exchange rings and also the "arras," which are 13 gold coins that symbolize their commitment and their ability to support each other. The coins are usually blessed by the priest and are passed from the groom to the bride during the ceremony.
Another tradition of Mexican weddings is the "lazo," made with rosaries and flowers and wraps around the couple. The lasso not only represents the union of the two, but its shape, similar to the number eight, also resembles the infinity symbol, which signifies how long they expect the marriage to last.
Photo: AveSol
These are just a few examples of the many fascinating wedding traditions that can be found around the world. Whether you are planning your own wedding or are simply interested in learning about other cultures, it's wonderful to see the different customs and traditions used to celebrate this very special occasion.
Whether they're from China, India, Scotland, Nigeria, Norway, Mexico, or anywhere else in the world, love and commitment between two people is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures.
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