Wedding Traditions Around the World
Weddings are beautiful, joyous celebrations of love and union. While every couple’s special day is unique, many wedding traditions carry deep cultural significance, symbolising hope, fertility, unity and prosperity. In this blog, we explore some fascinating wedding traditions around the world.
#1 The Veil (Western Tradition)
In many Western weddings, the bride traditionally wears a veil. This custom dates back to Roman times when veils were thought to protect the bride from evil spirits. Today, the veil is often seen as a symbol of modesty, but it also adds a layer of mystery and elegance to the occasion – maybe even being seen as the ‘cherry on top’ to a bride’s wedding day look.
#2 Jumping the Broom (African American & African Tradition)
The tradition of ‘jumping the broom’ has roots in West Africa and became widely popular among enslaved African Americans in the 18th and 19th centuries. In some cultures, the act of jumping over a broom symbolises the couple’s new life together and the sweeping away of old troubles.
#3 Handfasting (Celtic Tradition)
Handfasting is an ancient Celtic tradition where the couple’s hands are bound together, symbolising their union and commitment. While the phrase ‘tying the knot’ originated from this ritual, it is still practiced in some contemporary weddings as a meaningful vow.
#4 The Groom’s Gift (Korean Tradition)
In traditional Korean weddings, the groom presents his bride with a gift of ‘baekhap’ (money or food) to demonstrate his commitment to supporting her. This exchange is symbolic of the groom’s intention to care for his bride for the rest of their lives.
#5 The Tea Ceremony (Chinese Tradition)
In Chinese weddings, the tea ceremony is a key part of the celebration. The bride and groom serve tea to their parents and elders as a sign of respect, gratitude, and to formally receive the blessings of their families. The ceremony also marks the couple’s acceptance into their new roles as a married pair.
Whether it’s wearing a veil, jumping over a broom or sharing a cup of tea, wedding traditions offer a glimpse into the rich cultural values that bind communities and celebrate love across generations. These timeless rituals add a layer of depth and meaning to an already magical day, making weddings not just about the couple, but about honouring family, heritage and history.
