Marriage customs around the world

Marriage customs around the world vary greatly, from the simple to the extravagant. In some cultures, brides wear crowns to deflect evil spirits. In others, couples share sake in a bonding ritual.

 And in India, it's not uncommon for bride and groom to get inked! Whether you're looking for something traditional or something new, there's sure to be a wedding custom that appeals to you. So take a look around and see what strikes your fancy.

United States

Marriage is a sacred institution that is practiced in many different ways around the world. In the United States, Christian weddings are typically white affairs where the bride wears a white gown and the groom wears a tuxedo. 

The wedding ceremony is often held in a church, and the reception is usually held in a banquet hall or hotel. Guests are typically required to bring gifts for the happy couple, and the bride and groom exchange vows in front of a minister or priest.

China

Marriage customs around the world are varied and unique. One of the most interesting and well-known marriage customs comes from China. In China, marriages used to be arranged by the parents of the bride and groom with the aid of a matchmaker. Although that practice is not often practiced now, there are still many elements of a traditional Chinese wedding that are celebrated today. These include the use of red envelopes, auspicious colors, and the tea ceremony.

The red envelope is a symbol of good luck and is given to the bride and groom by their families. The auspicious colors of red and gold are thought to bring good luck and fortune to the newlyweds. The tea ceremony is an important part of a Chinese wedding, as it officially recognises the couple as husband and wife.

These traditions are just a few examples of how marriage customs around the world can be both fascinating and beautiful.

Japan

Marriage customs around the world vary depending on the culture, but there are some that are similar no matter where you go. In Japan, for example, weddings are often Shinto-style ceremonies officiated by a priest in a shrine. 

The bride and groom invite only close family and friends to the ceremony, while other relatives are invited to the reception. From the bride tossing her bouquet to wearing something old, new, borrowed, and blue, American wedding customs are still so popular today.

India

Indian weddings are known for being really elaborate and colorful with lots of fanfare and rituals. However, in some areas in the country if a girl is from a wealthier family, the wedding can last up to a week! Indian weddings take place over 3 days and is filled with lots of celebrations and traditional ceremonies. Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect at an Indian wedding.

On the first day, the bride's family applies Haldi or turmeric paste to her skin in order to purify her. This is followed by a mehndi ceremony, where intricate designs are drawn on the bride's hands and feet using henna. 

The second day is typically when the bride and groom exchange garlands as a sign of their love and commitment to each other. And on the third and final day, the actual wedding ceremony takes place followed by feasting and more celebrations

Africa

Marriage is a respected tradition all over the world, but Africa takes a special interest in the occasion. In many African cultures, the groom's family must pay a bride price to the bride's family. This is seen as a way of showing respect and appreciation for the woman.

 There are also many traditions involving food and dance. For example, in West African cultures, it is customary for the bride to feed the couple while they dance during the wedding ceremony. In Zulu culture, there is a formal request ceremony where the groom asks for the bride's hand. These are just a few examples of how marriage is celebrated in Africa.