Mexican weddings today are a fantastic mix of modernity and age-old cultural practices. Their weddings are treated as family events (and reunions) and are larger than life!
“Mexican weddings are very festive,” says Father Ryan Zamora Carnecer to Brides. “Many times there are mariachis that play during the mass, and the church is beautifully decorated with flowers and colorful decorations. At the same time, it’s very faith-based, and there’s a focus on God and our Blessed Mother, Mary, to guide the couple through this journey.”
With family, religion, culture, and modern trends all in the mix, Mexican weddings are quite interesting. Here are some Mexican wedding traditions you may see at their ceremonies:
Las arras matrimoniales – Wedding Coins
The arras, 13 gold coins, are placed inside a gold box and are given as a gift from the los padrinos y madrinas, or a special group of people, similar to godparents, who are chosen by the couple. During the ceremony, the pastor blesses these coins and give them to the bride.
The tradition signifies the groom’s commitment to the bride, and is a representation of Jesus and his 12 apostles.
Mass
Mexican weddings take place within a mass, similar to a Sunday mass. However, this mass also has marriage rituals, including exchange of vows and the marriage blessing.
Mariachis
Often, the couple will have mariachi bands present to sing hymns during mass and at the reception.
El lazo – Wedding Lasso
This tradition symbolises unity and everlasting love between the couple. A string of flowers and rosary beads (the lasso) is placed on the shoulders of the couple; first the bride and then the groom. This happens after the vows are completed. The lasso is placed on their shoulders in a figure 8, while the priest blesses the marriage.
La Callejoneada – Wedding parade
Taking place after the wedding ceremony, the mariachis lead a parade. Walking, dancing, and celebrating in the streets, the parade escorts the guests from the ceremony to the reception.
Image: Unsplash
