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wedding traditions of the world

Wedding Customs You May Want To Tie Into Your Special Day

A wedding isn’t all about vows and cake. It is a union of two people, their families, and their souls. Many cultures around the globe have their own unique traditions to help celebrate a couple in marriage and help them start a happy life together. Here are some interesting traditions we think are special, symbolizing a deeper meaning that you might like to know about.

 

The Groomsman Grooms The Groom (Greece)

 

greek wedding traditions

Picture Courtesy: @whitestoriesevents

 

On a man’s wedding day, his best friend (koumbaros) takes on the role of ‘groomsman’ a little too seriously and literally helps ‘groom’ him ready for his bride. The bestie turned Edward Scissorhands is supposed to shave the groom’s face to prepare him for the big day. This is a symbol of trust, support, and true friendship.

 

Sake-Sharing & Horn-Hiding (Japan)

 

wedding traditions japan

Pictures Courtesy: @shaiith_photography & @erikosakihama

 

The sake ritual is part of the Japanese Shinto wedding ceremony, wherein along with the exchange of vows, cups of sake are shared between the couple and their families. This sacred ritual is deep-rooted in Japanese culture, and is believed to help unite the couple as husband and wife. Another interesting tradition includes the bride dressed in a kimono and a headpiece called the tsunokakushi, literally translating to ‘horn-hider.’ It is said that when a woman gets jealous or angry, she grows horns on her head. And so, the purpose of the headdress is to depict she would be a good wife to her husband.

 

A Sweet Serenade (Italy)

 

wedding rituals and customs italy

Picture Courtesy: @front_room_studios

 

Who wouldn’t want to be serenaded at least once in their lives? This Italian custom, La Serenata traditionally requires the groom to arrange a serenade under the bride’s window, with the help of family and some musicians. It’s a special and festive moment, even if it means disrupting the bride’s sleep because, really, a romantic gesture like this is worth losing a little sleep for.

 

I Saw A Lifetime With You (Germany)

 

german wedding customs

Pictures Courtesy: @cornelia_lietz & @aldousphoto

 

In German culture, the wedded couple saw a log in half with a two-person saw. This tradition is called Baumstamm Sägen and is meant to symbolize how the couple are going to work together through every obstacle in their marriage. If you want to test out your strenth, why not take part in this custom? It will also entertain your guests, giving them something special to remember your day by.

 

A French Toast (France)

 

france wedding ritual ideas

Pictures Courtesy: @pierettedesigns & @fetelledesigns

 

La Coupe de Mariage is an engraved two-handled cup that is passed down as a family heirloom to the couple, which they use for their first toast to each other. And of course, if you’re looking for something a little more fancier, you have the fontaine de Champagne. The champagne tower is exciting and popular, and has been used in many modern weddings.

 

There are so many more rituals worldwide, some fun, some a little… off-putting. If you enjoyed reading about these one-of-a-kind traditions, click here to find more interesting customs to borrow from and make your nuptials all the more memorable.

 

Feature Image Credit: @zohaibali.co.uk