In most societies throughout history, marriage has been more about social and economic expediency than about love. Weddings were often arranged by a couple’s parents, when the bride and groom were still in early childhood, and were based on the families’ respective social standing and offerings. Even if the bride and groom had chosen each other, there were certain prerequisites before a wedding could take place. Sometimes the groom’s family was required to pay a "bride’s price," essentially purchasing the bride from her family and reimbursing them for their loss. For her part, the bride often had a dowry, or an accumulation of possessions and money that she took with her into the marriage. All terms had to be settled before the marriage ceremony could take place.

On the wedding day, the father of the bride would present his daughter to the groom. He would then "give her away", thus verbally acknowledging that all arrangements had been fulfilled and he was satisfied with Continue reading "Why give the bride away?" »

Arras Coins- A Hispanic wedding tradition of 13 coins.

Arras in Spanish means pledge. Thirteen gold coins (arras) are given by the groom to the bride during the marriage ceremony. The groom giving the coins signifies his willingness to support her and trust in her. The bride accepting them signifies her willingness to trust him and be prudent.

Some say the thirteen coins represent thirteen words; Love, peace, commitment, trust, respect, joy, happiness, nurturing, caring, harmony, wholeness, harmony, and cooperation. Others believe it is representative of the 12 Apostles and Christ. Yet, others see it as the lunar calendar of 12 months and the 13 as the honeymoon. Whatever the tradition stems from, it is a beautiful part of the Hispanic wedding ceremony.

The Padrinos (Godparents) are the ones to purchase the 13 coins for the groom. This signifies that the Continue reading "Arras Coins- A Hispanic Wedding Tradition" »

El Lazo (the Lasso) Mexican Wedding Tradition

A lasso (El lazo) is used in traditional Hispanic wedding ceremonies to symbolize unity. This tradition probably came from seventh century Spain. A rope, ribbon, cord or large rosary is draped around the neck of the groom then the bride in a figure eight after they exchange vows. Often the Padrinos (Godparents) have the honor of draping the lasso during the wedding ceremony. In some ceremonies the lasso is draped around the wrists instead of the neck. To symbolize the forever binding of love and marriage, the couple wears the lasso until the end of the ceremony. After the ceremony the Lasso is removed either by the Padrinos (Godparents) or the priest. The Lasso is then given to the bride for her to keep as a memento of her status as mistress to her husbands heart and home.

This is one tradition that is very much common place in Mexican weddings, especially in Mexican-American weddings.