5 Interesting Wedding Traditions Around The World That Will Surprise You
We all know about the traditional Western wedding—but what about weddings from around the world?
Here are some of the most interesting wedding traditions from different parts of the world that will surprise you, so keep reading to learn more about them!
1. Persian wedding traditions
One of the most fascinating wedding traditions comes from Persia, where couples have a “seven-day feast”. This tradition is celebrated before the actual wedding ceremony, and usually includes lots of food, music, and dance.
The bride and groom also exchange presents during this time, and it’s seen as a way to build excitement leading up to the wedding day. One cannot help but recognize the rich symbolism inherent in each of the Persian celebration rituals.
Every aspect of the ceremony reflects a different aspect of the ancient Zoroastrian religion, from the mirror and candelabras, which represent light and fire, to the kaleh ghand (sugar cones), which are rubbed together by married female family members over the heads of the bride and groom to bring sweetness into their life and marriage.
In addition, the ayeeneh (mirror) sends light and brightness into the bride and groom’s future.
2. Indian wedding traditions
India is a country with a diverse and rich culture, so it’s no surprise that Indian weddings are also quite unique.
One of the most interesting Indian wedding traditions is the Mehendi ceremony, which takes place a few days before the wedding. The bride and her friends and family will gather together to apply henna paste to each other’s hands and feet.
This is a special time for women to relax and chat, and the designs that are applied often have significance relating to the couple’s upcoming marriage.
For example, a design might represent two hearts intertwined or a bride and groom in silhouette. After the henna has had time to dry, it will be washed off and the bride will be ready for her big day!
The jewelry that Indian brides wear is also quite unique and often quite elaborate. Heavy gold jewelry is common, as are intricate designs that often feature precious stones.
3. Japanese wedding traditions
Japanese weddings are also quite unique, with several interesting traditions that differ from those in other parts of the world.
One tradition that is still observed in some parts of Japan is the kimono ceremony. This takes place on the morning of the wedding day and involves the bride and groom dressing in traditional kimonos. They then proceed to a shrine, where they offer prayers and exchange sake cups as a symbol of their union.
Another intriguing Japanese wedding tradition is the “money dance”. This is a dance that is performed by the newlyweds at the reception, and guests are invited to put money into a special box as they dance by. The money that is collected is then used to help cover the costs of the wedding.
Finally, another unique tradition in Japanese weddings is the use of red paper strips. These are often placed on the door of the couple’s home after the wedding, as a way to bless and protect them.
4. Scottish wedding traditions
Scottish weddings are also quite unique, and one of the most interesting traditions is the “blessing of the kilts”. This takes place before the wedding ceremony and involves a priest or minister blessing the kilt that the groom will be wearing.
This is seen as a way to ensure that the groom will be protected and successful in his new role as husband.
Another fascinating tradition in Scottish weddings is the “handfasting” ceremony. This is a Pagan ritual that is often used in place of a traditional wedding ceremony and involves tying the hands of the bride and groom together with a special ribbon or cord. This symbolizes their union and commitment to each other.
Finally, one of the most well-known Scottish wedding traditions is the bagpipes. Bagpipers often play at weddings, and the special piper’s march is often used to lead the bride and groom into the reception hall.
5. Israeli wedding traditions
Israeli weddings are also quite unique, with several interesting traditions that differ from those in other parts of the world. One tradition that is still observed in some parts of Israel is the “bedeken” ceremony.
This takes place shortly before the wedding ceremony and involves the groom lifting the bride’s veil to see her face for the first time. This is seen as a way to ensure that the bride is really who he thinks she is, and it also signifies his commitment to her.
Another exciting tradition in Israeli weddings is the “huppah”. This is a special canopy that is often used as a focal point for the wedding ceremony, and it symbolizes the couple’s new home together. It is also customary for the bride and groom to break a glass at the end of the wedding ceremony, as a way to mark the end of their special day.
These are just a few of the many interesting wedding traditions that can be found around the world. Each tradition has its own unique meaning and significance, and they all serve to make weddings a special and memorable event.
If you are planning a wedding, it can be fun to incorporate some of these traditions into your own ceremony.