There are so many unique wedding traditions around the world! Here are a few:
- Spain – “La Hora Loca” (The Crazy Hour): At a Spanish wedding, the reception often includes a “crazy hour,” a fun and wild party where guests wear party hats, masks, and accessories, and the energy is completely off the charts. It’s meant to celebrate the couple’s joy and allow everyone to let loose.
- India – “Joota Chupai” (Stealing the Groom’s Shoes): In Indian weddings, it’s a tradition for the bride’s sisters and cousins to “steal” the groom’s shoes while he’s distracted. The groom has to negotiate with them to get them back, usually by offering money or other favors. It’s a playful and fun tradition!
- Scotland – “Blackening of the Bride”: In some parts of Scotland, before the wedding, the bride (and sometimes the groom) is “blacked” by friends and family, which means they are covered in a mixture of soot, feathers, and other messy substances. The idea is to prepare them for the tough times ahead in marriage and to show they can handle anything together.
- South Korea – “Pyebaek”: In South Korea, the bride and groom take part in a ceremony where they offer dates and chestnuts to each other’s parents, symbolizing their commitment to the family. The groom’s parents then throw the dates and chestnuts at the bride, and she catches them in her hanbok (traditional dress), which symbolizes fertility.
- Greece – “Stealing the Bride”: In some Greek weddings, there’s a playful tradition where friends of the groom “steal” the bride during the reception. The groom must then go on a “rescue mission” to retrieve her, often accompanied by jokes and laughter. This adds an element of fun and lightheartedness to the day.
- Norway – “Kransekake” Cake: Instead of a traditional wedding cake, in Norway, a bride and groom might have a “kransekake” – a tall tower made of almond-based cake rings. It’s not only a delicious treat but is also considered a good luck charm for the couple.
- Philippines – “Money Dance”: During the reception, guests pin money onto the bride and groom’s clothes while they dance. This is a way for guests to wish them prosperity in their new life together.
- Germany – “Polterabend”: Before the wedding day, the couple has a “Polterabend,” where friends and family gather to break porcelain (except glass, which is considered bad luck). The couple then has to clean up the mess together, symbolizing teamwork in their marriage