The world is a small place. Love has no boundaries. Together, these two statements create many international romances. International love can add excitement and diversity to a relationship, but it can also create several problems, especially when it comes to weddings. Many couples find themselves pondering which cultural traditions to incorporate into the ceremony. With numerous wedding traditions throughout the world, ceremonies are more and more multicultural in nature. Even couples from the same country often look to other cultures for unique ceremony ideas. Described below are a few wedding traditions rooted in
Lavender is a symbol of loyalty, devotion and luck. It is often incorporated into the bride’s bouquet as well as her hair. A traditional bride will have her hair braided. Braided hair is not only another source of luck, but also a source of feminine power.
The Claddagh ring originated in
Not surprisingly, St. Patrick’s Day is considered the luckiest day to get married, and the luck grows with each anniversary that passes.
A Russian couple is officially married during a civil ceremony. Here they exchange their vow and consume bread and salt, which symbolize health, prosperity and a long life. This is a private event. The real celebration follows civil marriage, where friends and family gather for a two day reception full of dancing, dining and drinking.
Like many cultures, a toast is given during the reception ceremony. Unlike many cultures, the toast is followed by everyone throwing their champagne glasses on the floor. Luck comes with the break.
The front of the wedding vehicle serves as the couple’s hopes for children. They tie a doll onto the front if they wish their first child to be a girl. A bear signifies their hopes for a boy.
