Wedding Traditions Around the World

A man in traditional attire holds a flower garland, surrounded by a group of people in colorful clothing, in front of a historic building. Everyone looks engaged in an outdoor ceremony, celebrating wedding traditions from around the world.

Weddings are a universal celebration of love and commitment, but the way they are celebrated varies greatly across cultures. From unique rituals to symbolic gestures, each tradition adds a special touch to the ceremony. Let’s explore some fascinating wedding traditions from around the world, and how you can capture these moments with our wedding photography services.

1. Polterabend in Germany

Imagine this: the night before the wedding, friends and family gather for a Polterabend, where they smash porcelain dishes. The couple then cleans up the mess together, symbolizing their ability to face challenges as a team. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. The sound of breaking porcelain is said to scare away any negative energy, ensuring a harmonious start to the marriage. Our wedding photography services can capture the lively and chaotic moments of this unique pre-wedding celebration.

2. Norwegian Bridal Crowns

In Norway, brides wear ornate silver and gold crowns adorned with small charms that tinkle as they move. The sound is believed to deflect evil spirits and ensure a happy marriage. These crowns, often family heirlooms, are intricately designed and add a touch of fairy-tale magic to the wedding day. The tradition dates back to medieval times and is a beautiful way to honor Norwegian heritage. Our wedding photography services can capture the elegance and historical significance of these stunning bridal crowns.

3. Mexican Wedding Lasso

During a Mexican wedding ceremony, a lasso made of rosary beads and flowers is draped around the couple’s shoulders in the shape of a figure eight. This symbolizes their eternal union and commitment to each other. The lasso is placed by the couple’s godparents, who play a significant role in their lives. This tradition is a beautiful representation of the couple’s bond and their faith. Our wedding photography services can capture the emotional and spiritual essence of this meaningful ritual.

4. Armenian Bread Balance

In Armenia, newlyweds balance lavash flatbread on their shoulders to ward off evil spirits. They also eat spoonfuls of honey to symbolize happiness and sweetness in their marriage. This tradition is a delightful blend of protection and joy. The lavash, a staple in Armenian cuisine, represents sustenance and prosperity, while the honey signifies the sweetness of their union. Our wedding photography services can capture the intimate and joyful moments of this unique tradition.

A couple dressed in traditional attire stands closely together, holding hands and gazing at each other, beside ornate columns and a staircase in a grand indoor setting—a beautiful testament to wedding traditions from around the world.

A woman in a vibrant traditional outfit performs a dance, raising one arm. Three men, one in a red turban and two in blue shirts, watch in the background, showcasing wedding traditions from around the world.

A group of people, including women in traditional attire and men in stylish suits and turbans, are smiling and celebrating outdoors. Embracing wedding traditions from around the world, one woman is particularly enthusiastic, laughing and embracing others.

A joyful crowd dressed in traditional attire celebrates outside a historic building. Embracing the essence of wedding traditions from around the world, one woman in green and another in pink embrace warmly, surrounded by smiling individuals in similar outfits.

A woman in a black outfit and traditional jewelry dances, embodying wedding traditions from around the world, while a person in the background captures the moment with a phone.

A woman in a black outfit dances barefoot in an indoor setting, embodying wedding traditions from around the world, while guests look on.

A group of people, including two women seated on the floor in traditional attire, watch an event with expressions of amusement and interest, showcasing wedding traditions from around the world.

A seated couple in traditional attire watches an event, with other attendees in the background, celebrating wedding traditions from around the world at a beautifully decorated venue.

A woman in a red and gold traditional outfit and veil stands next to a column in a stone-arched walkway, holding decorative tassels, embodying the elegance of wedding traditions from around the world.

A man dressed in traditional attire with a red turban and a white sherwani adjusts his red and gold patterned shawl, embodying wedding traditions from around the world.

A groom in traditional attire with a beaded veil stands among attendants in pastel-colored clothing, holding a decorative sword, showcasing wedding traditions from around the world during a cultural wedding ceremony.

A man with a black turban and white beard stands among a crowd, clapping. Beside him is another man in a pink turban. As part of wedding traditions from around the world, people are holding umbrellas, adding to the festivity, while a smartphone is visible in the foreground capturing the moment.

A tray adorned with colorful ornamented items, such as beads and fabrics, is held by a person dressed in green traditional attire. Other individuals in traditional clothing are partially visible in the background, capturing a scene that reflects wedding traditions from around the world.

A group of people dressed in traditional attire participates in a cultural ceremony, reflecting wedding traditions from around the world, with one woman holding a decorated plate and others wearing turbans and colorful garments.

A young girl wearing traditional attire and jewelry stands among a group of people dressed in colorful clothing, showcasing vibrant wedding traditions from around the world.

A boy wearing a red turban and white traditional attire listens to an adult gesturing with their finger, embodying rich wedding traditions from around the world. Others are present in the background.

A man in a suit is sitting on a couch, holding up red bangles in one hand and a set of gold-colored chandelier earrings in the other, smiling—showcasing wedding traditions from around the world.

A group of people in a ballroom setting watches dancers in colorful attire perform, celebrating wedding traditions from around the world. The room is adorned with large paintings and ornate elements, adding to the festive atmosphere.

A group of performers in traditional attire dance inside an ornate hall, celebrating wedding traditions from around the world, with an audience seated at tables.

A couple stands on a staircase inside a building with ornate architecture; the woman wears traditional attire, and the man wears a turban and suit, reflecting wedding traditions from around the world. A painting and large window are visible in the background.

A couple stands on indoor stairs, embodying wedding traditions from around the world. The woman wears a green and white lehenga, while the man dons a dark green sherwani with a matching turban.

A couple dressed in traditional Indian attire embraces while gazing into each other's eyes inside a grand building, embodying wedding traditions from around the world. The man wears a green turban and ornate outfit; the woman is in a green and gold dress.

A couple dressed in traditional attire stands close together, embodying Wedding Traditions from around the world, in an ornate building with columns and arches.

A person wearing red and gold bangles displays intricate mehndi designs on their open palms, with gold tassels hanging from their wrists, showcasing a beautiful aspect of wedding traditions from around the world.

A couple dressed in traditional Indian wedding attire stands in a garden, embodying the vibrant Wedding Traditions from around the world. The woman wears a stunning red lehenga, while the man complements her with a white sherwani and a red turban.

A couple dressed in traditional red and white wedding attire share an intimate moment on an outdoor staircase, embodying wedding traditions from around the world.

A woman dressed in traditional attire smiles while seated. She wears a white headscarf, a red dress, and a decorative headpiece, showcasing wedding traditions from around the world.

A young girl wearing a traditional pink outfit and headscarf adorned with a decorative headpiece and bangles, smiling gently, showcasing wedding traditions from around the world.

A woman wearing a green dress and matching shawl sits on the ground indoors, with empty chairs visible in the background, reminiscent of wedding traditions from around the world.

A woman in a red traditional outfit and headscarf, embodying wedding traditions from around the world, smiles at the camera.

A woman dressed in a purple, beaded traditional garment is looking at the camera. She is seated indoors among a group of people, embodying the rich wedding traditions from around the world.

A person with long hair smiles while wearing a light pink ornate outfit and matching head scarf in a setting that evokes Wedding Traditions from around the world.

Three individuals dressed in traditional attire, embodying wedding traditions from around the world, pose together outdoors, with the adult man and woman each having an arm around the girl standing between them.

A group of people dressed in traditional attire dance energetically at an indoor event, celebrating wedding traditions from around the world amidst festive lighting and decorations.

A group of people in colorful traditional attire are dancing and clapping in a decorated indoor setting, showcasing vibrant wedding traditions from around the world, with many onlookers enjoying the performance.

A woman dressed in traditional attire dances in a decorated hall, embodying wedding traditions from around the world, while seated guests watch her performance.

A man wearing a turban and a woman in traditional attire sit at a table adorned with floral arrangements and an ice bucket, smiling. Behind them, a decorated fireplace adds to the elegant ambiance, reflecting wedding traditions from around the world.

A man wearing a red turban and a white collared shirt smiles softly at the camera, embodying the vibrant charm of wedding traditions from around the world.

A man and woman in traditional South Asian attire sit at a decorated table in front of a fireplace, embodying wedding traditions from around the world. The table is adorned with flowers and a drink, adding to the festive ambiance.

A couple dressed in traditional attire sit and laugh together at a wedding reception, embodying wedding traditions from around the world, with guests and servers bustling in the background.

A traditional wedding ceremony with a bride and groom in red and white attire, surrounded by family members and guests in colorful garments and turbans, showcases wedding traditions from around the world in a beautifully decorated indoor setting.

A person in a white shirt is seated on a black couch while another individual helps adjust their red turban, reflecting wedding traditions from around the world.

A couple in traditional attire sits at a decorated table with flowers and two bottles in front of a fireplace, embodying wedding traditions from around the world.

A man and woman pose playfully, extending their arms towards each other. Both wear traditional attire; he in a green outfit and she in a gold dress with a patterned shawl, embodying the rich essence of wedding traditions from around the world.

A couple in traditional Indian attire stands on a staircase, embodying wedding traditions from around the world. The woman dazzles in a green and white outfit while the man looks regal in a dark blue sherwani and green turban.

A couple in traditional attire stand close, facing each other, with the man leaning against a marble pillar and the woman gazing up at him, embodying wedding traditions from around the world.

A couple dressed in traditional South Asian wedding attire stands under an archway, symbolizing wedding traditions from around the world. The woman wears a red lehenga, and the man dons a white sherwani with a red turban, exchanging amorous glances.

A group of six people stand together outdoors, with greenery and flowers in the background. Two individuals are dressed in traditional wedding attire, celebrating wedding traditions from around the world.

A groom with a sehra (veil) and guests celebrate at an outdoor wedding event, embracing Wedding Traditions from around the world. The crowd is dressed in traditional attire, smiling and raising hands in joy.

Bride and groom in traditional attire sit among guests during a wedding ceremony, surrounded by family and friends, embracing wedding traditions from around the world.

A man wearing a red turban and white traditional attire sits on a dark sofa, adjusting his left ear, embodying wedding traditions from around the world.

A bride and groom clad in red traditional attire sit cross-legged, surrounded by guests at a cultural ceremony inside a hall, showcasing wedding traditions from around the world.

A couple in traditional attire participates in a wedding ceremony at a Sikh temple. Guests, seated on the floor and adorned in colorful clothing and head coverings, embrace the rich Wedding Traditions from around the world.

A large group of people, dressed in traditional attire, participate in a cultural or religious ceremony inside an ornate hall with chandeliers and large windows, showcasing wedding traditions from around the world.

A person dressed in traditional attire with a white-covered face sits cross-legged on a patterned rug during a ceremony, embodying wedding traditions from around the world. Others in colorful clothing are seated in the background, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of cultural celebration.

In a cozy room, a man is having a red turban tied on his head by another person, embodying the rich wedding traditions from around the world. He complements this tradition with a light-colored textured jacket, ready for his special day.

An individual wearing a turban and traditional attire sits before a draped platform, possibly involved in a religious or ceremonial act, with microphones and electronic equipment around—an evocative scene reminiscent of wedding traditions from around the world.

A group of people, some wearing turbans, gather outdoors. One man with a white beard and black turban appears to be leading the gathering, reminiscent of wedding traditions from around the world. An umbrella is visible in the background.

A crowd of people in traditional attire gathers outside the Sanremo Italian Restaurant, possibly to celebrate wedding traditions from around the world. Some individuals hold trays with items while others stand under umbrellas.

A close-up of hands adjusting a decorative headpiece on a red turban conveys the rich wedding traditions from around the world. The person has a ring on one finger and a henna design on the back of their hand, symbolizing cultural beauty and commitment.

A person wearing white pants and ornate, pointed shoes stands on a patterned rug, evoking wedding traditions from around the world.

5. Congo: No Smiling on the Wedding Day

In Congo, couples are not allowed to smile during their wedding day, from the ceremony to the reception. This tradition emphasizes the seriousness of marriage and the commitment the couple is making to each other. The solemn expressions are a stark contrast to the joyous celebrations that follow, highlighting the gravity of their vows. Our wedding photography services can capture the profound and heartfelt moments of this deeply meaningful tradition.

6. Chinese Bow and Arrow

In China, a groom shoots his bride with a bow and headless arrows several times before collecting them and breaking them during the ceremony. This ritual is believed to ensure that their love will last forever. The act of shooting the arrows symbolizes the groom’s intention to protect his bride, while breaking them signifies the end of any potential conflicts. Our wedding photography services can capture the dynamic and symbolic moments of this ancient tradition.

7. Fijian Whale’s Tooth

In Fiji, when a man asks for a woman’s hand in marriage, he presents her father with a whale’s tooth. This tradition shows respect and the seriousness of the groom’s intentions. The whale’s tooth, known as a tabua, is a powerful symbol of commitment and honor in Fijian culture. It represents the groom’s willingness to provide and protect. Our wedding photography services can capture the poignant and respectful moments of this significant tradition.

8. Carrying the Bride in China

In some parts of China, the groom carries the bride over a pan of burning coals before entering their home. This tradition is meant to ensure that the bride will have an easy and successful labor. The act of carrying the bride over the coals symbolizes the groom’s strength and dedication to his bride’s well-being. Our wedding photography services can capture the dramatic and protective moments of this unique tradition.

9. Greek Groom Shaving

In Greece, the best man shaves the groom on the morning of the wedding. This tradition symbolizes trust and the groom’s readiness for marriage. The act of shaving is a bonding moment between the groom and his best man, signifying the groom’s transition from bachelorhood to married life. Our wedding photography services can capture the intimate and transformative moments of this meaningful tradition.

10. Guatemalan Bell Breaking

In Guatemala, the groom’s mother breaks a white ceramic bell filled with grains like rice and flour when the couple arrives at their reception. This tradition is meant to bring prosperity and abundance to the couple’s marriage. The breaking of the bell symbolizes the start of a new life filled with blessings and good fortune. Our wedding photography services can capture the celebratory and auspicious moments of this joyful tradition.

11. Japanese Tsunokakushi

Japanese brides wear a white hood called a tsunokakushi to hide their “horns of jealousy.” This tradition symbolizes the bride’s intention to become a gentle and obedient wife. The tsunokakushi is part of the traditional bridal attire and adds a layer of cultural significance to the wedding. Our wedding photography services can capture the elegant and symbolic moments of this beautiful tradition.

12. Lebanese Zaffe

In Lebanon, weddings begin with a zaffe, a rowdy celebration featuring music, belly dancing, and shouting. This lively procession leads the couple to their wedding venue and sets the tone for a joyous celebration. The zaffe is a vibrant and energetic tradition that brings together family and friends in a festive atmosphere. Our wedding photography services can capture the lively and exuberant moments of this spirited tradition.

13. Norwegian Kransekake

In Norway, a traditional wedding cake called a kransekake is made of concentric rings of almond cake. The towering cake is decorated with flags and ornaments, symbolizing unity and prosperity. The kransekake is not only a delicious treat but also a visually stunning centerpiece that adds a touch of elegance to the wedding. Our wedding photography services can capture the intricate and beautiful moments of this delightful tradition.

14. Czech Baby on the Bed

In the Czech Republic, an infant is placed on the couple’s bed to bless them with fertility and good fortune. This tradition is a hopeful gesture for the couple’s future family. The presence of the baby symbolizes the couple’s desire for children and a prosperous family life. Our wedding photography services can capture the tender and hopeful moments of this endearing tradition.

a bride and groom standing on the steps of a mansion.

15. Russian Karavay

In Russia, newlyweds share a sweetbread called karavay, decorated with wheat for prosperity and interlocking rings for faithfulness. The couple takes a bite together, symbolizing their shared future. The karavay is often elaborately decorated and is a central part of the wedding feast. Our wedding photography services can capture the meaningful and celebratory moments of this traditional ritual.

16. Indian Joota Chupai

In India, the bride’s sisters and cousins steal the groom’s shoes and demand a ransom for their return. This playful tradition adds a fun and lighthearted element to the wedding festivities. The joota chupai is a game that brings laughter and joy to the celebration, highlighting the close bonds between family members. Our wedding photography services can capture the playful and joyous moments of this entertaining tradition.

17. Nigerian Camel Dance

In Niger, a camel dance is performed at the wedding reception. This unique tradition involves camels dancing to music, providing entertainment and symbolizing the couple’s journey together. The camel dance is a vibrant and lively performance that adds a touch of cultural richness to the wedding. Our wedding photography services can capture the dynamic and colorful moments of this captivating tradition.

18. Philippine White Doves

In the Philippines, the couple releases a pair of white doves to symbolize a harmonious life together. The doves represent peace, love, and prosperity. The release of the doves is a beautiful and symbolic gesture that marks the beginning of the couple’s journey together. Our wedding photography services can capture the serene and meaningful moments of this touching tradition.

19. Cuban Money Dance

In Cuba, guests pin money to the bride and groom’s clothing during the reception. This tradition is meant to help the couple start their new life together with financial support. The money dance is a fun and interactive.

A large, historical building featuring arched windows and multiple chimneys, surrounded by yellow flowers in planters, under a partly cloudy sky—perfect for any Grittleton House photographer to capture its timeless beauty.

Wedding Traditions Around the World

Wedding Traditions Around the World

1. Polterabend in Germany

2. Norwegian Bridal Crowns

3. Mexican Wedding Lasso

4. Armenian Bread Balance

5. Congo: No Smiling on the Wedding Day

6. Chinese Bow and Arrow

7. Fijian Whale’s Tooth

8. Carrying the Bride in China

9. Greek Groom Shaving

10. Guatemalan Bell Breaking

11. Japanese Tsunokakushi

12. Lebanese Zaffe

13. Norwegian Kransekake

14. Czech Baby on the Bed

15. Russian Karavay

16. Indian Joota Chupai

17. Nigerian Camel Dance

18. Philippine White Doves

19. Cuban Money Dance

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