Weddings look different around the world, which is probably why each and every one of them is so beautiful in its unique customs and traditions. In the US, wedding traditions are all over the charts, especially with every bride creating her own Pinterest board and incorporating new and fun DIY ideas. However, one main theme remains the same: Something borrowed, something blue, something old, and something new. This, combined with the couple's personal religious or non-denominational practices.
Around the world, culture dictates tradition when it comes to the act of being wed. Anything from the food to the attire and even the actions of the bride and groom differ, and these are only some countries that are known for their interesting wedding practices.
Hand Art Is Added To Jewelry In India
Often known as Henna, in India, brides partake in a type of skin painting called mehndi. This paint is done with intricate patterns in mind and usually takes up the bride's hand, wrist, and lower arm. The process is rather lengthy but the henna itself lasts for weeks, and it quite beautiful when it's finished. While its appearance is stunning, the practice itself has a more practical purpose - it's believed to have calming properties for the bride.
Couples Are Required To Literally Prove The Strength Of Their Love In Germany
This tradition is called Baumstamm Sägen, and it requires both the bride and groom to be on either end of a hand-saw while they saw a log in half. While the tradition might seem a bit rustic for a wedding, its symbolism couldn't be more beautiful. The physical act of sawing the log together is meant to represent each person's strength, and their combined strength, as they come together to share a life, facing challenges that married couples often deal with.
Cake In Norway Is Usually Hiding A Bottle Of Champagne
It's not likely guests will find a traditional cake as the US knows it in Norway. Rather, a delicacy called Kransekake is made with almond rings that are iced and stacked to create a sweet tower. Just as delicious, though, this sweet dessert has a dual purpose - it's not uncommon for the center to be filled by using a bottle of champagne, wine, or even gifts for the bride and groom.
A Whale's Tooth Is Part Of The Proposal In Rural Fiji
Don't worry - this gift isn't meant to be presented to the bride! Rather, in rural parts of Fiji, the gift of a whale's tooth is presented to the father of the bride before a man asks for his permission to propose to the bride-to-be. The whale's tooth is called a tabua, and it's in giving this gift that a man is symbolically asking permission to marry a man's daughter. It's seen throughout the country, but the tradition is more common in less-populated areas.
The Groom Needs To Pay His Bride's "Ransom" In Romania
This isn't nearly as wicked as it sounds and is purely for fun! In Romania, the bride-to-be's family and friends indulge in a bit of mischief prior to the wedding night. It's not uncommon for the bride to be whisked away without her husband-to-be knowing it, and it's his job to "get her back." In order to do this, anything from buying drinks to engaging in super sweet or romantic acts is required to pay the theoretical "ransom." It's all in good fun, though!