Weddings harbor some of the most unique and interesting customs in the world. As such an important life milestone, it’s no wonder that cultures all over the world have very specialized and meaningful traditions that accompany the big day.
- According to Hindu tradition, rain on your wedding day is actually good luck!
- Bachelor parties were started by the Spartan warriors. They would hold a raucous party in honor of their last act as a single man.
- Guests at a Mexican wedding often form a heart-shaped circle around the couple before their first newlywed dance.
- The tradition of the wedding cake first began in Italy when cake or bread was broken over the bride’s head to ensure fertility.
- The tradition of the best man originated in Germany. It was customary for a groom to kidnap his bride from a neighboring village and he needed his strongest friend to help, as well as stand by his side at the ceremony to ward off those who may try to take her back.
- In Denmark, it is tradition for the groom to disappear for a portion of the ceremony so all single men can kiss the bride. Then it’s the bride’s turn to disappear so the single women can kiss the groom.
- Moroccan women purify themselves by taking a milk bath before the wedding ceremony.
- The wedding veil originated with the ancient Greeks and Romans. They believed it protected the bride from evil spirits.
- Peas are thrown at Czech newlyweds instead of rice.
- The bride stands on the groom’s left in Christian ceremonies because, in bygone days, the groom needed his right hand free to fight off other suitors.
The world is full of unique, wedding customs. Whatever your heritage, you can incorporate the cultural traditions into your wedding to add originality and pay tribute to your background.