For those of us in the US, we have an idea of what a typical American “anglo-saxon” wedding looks like. The dress, the cake, the reception, the vows – all pretty typical. The dress is white. The cake is either chocolate or vanilla. The reception has speeches from the bridal part. The vows incorporate 1st Corinthians 13.
But weddings aren’t what they once were. There isn’t a “traditional” wedding, anymore. Even the “traditional” weddings of today are very different than the “traditional” weddings of our parents’ and grandparents’ day. There’s a lot of change happening and much of it is due to the acceptance of different cultures’ traditions and customs. It’s fascinating!
For the next few weeks, I’m going to take a look at some of the beautiful traditions of cultures from around the world. I’ve had the honor of designing weddings all over the globe and for many intercultural marriages here in the US and I want to pass some of that information on to you. Whether you’re marrying into a different culture or you’re attending a wedding hosted by more “traditional” ( 😉 ) family, you’re sure to fit right in!
Mexican Traditions
The Dress:
- There’s not many differences between a traditional Mexican wedding dress and an “American” wedding dress. The dress may have some more ruffles at the edge or a longer train, but the most important Mexican tradition is the addition of a Mantilla veil. The veil is chapel length and hangs in one simple layer to create a very elegant look.
- Important note: no pearls! In Mexican traditions, pearls are meant symbolize tears and wearing them to a wedding is thought to bring tears, sadness, and bad luck on a marriage.
The Ceremony
- Thirteen Gold coins. These arras are used to symbolize Christ and his 12 apostles. Because much of the Mexican culture is Catholic, these coins are blessed by the priest and are given to the bride as a symbol of the unquestionable trust and confidence the groom has in her. By accepting these arras, the bride pronounces her unconditional trust and confidence in her groom.
- The Lasso (Lazo): This isn’t just some length of rope that the priest ties the bride and groom together with, it’s traditionally a large rosary or decorated cord that is hung first around the groom’s shoulders and then added to the bride to signify their union and that they would always be together.
The Reception:
- The “money dance”: During the dancing portion of the reception, guests are led to the dance floor and invited to “pay” to dance with the bride or groom, often by pinning the money to the bridal gown or put in the groom’s pockets (or other, more “interesting” places). Guests are encouraged to be generous as the money is given to the couple as a honeymoon gift or for their new household.
- Food: Traditional Mexican food includes spicy chicken, rice, beans, and tortilla dishes whose main ingredients are chicken or beef. Many families have special dishes reserved or large gatherings like weddings and spend days preparing the food.
- Mariachi Band: Need I say more? 😉
I’ve had the pleasure of attending several Mexican weddings and remember them being a true celebration of love and commitment. The receptions are fun, the ceremonies are beautiful, and the tequila is delicious!