Your wedding day is one of the most special moments of your life — a celebration of love, family, and all the little traditions that make your story unique. But did you know that couples around the world celebrate in some truly magical ways?
From joyous dances to meaningful rituals, wedding traditions can be a fun way to add personality, culture, and a touch of magic to your big day. Let’s take a trip around the world and discover some of our favorite customs — maybe you’ll find one (or several!) to include in your own celebration.
India — The Sacred Seven Steps
In a traditional Indian wedding, the bride and groom take seven steps around a sacred fire, called Saptapadi. Each step represents a vow — from nourishing each other to standing together through every challenge.
Fun idea for your wedding: Create your own “seven promises” ceremony. Write personal vows or commitments that reflect your love story and share them in front of your guests.
Italy — Confetti for Sweet Fortune
In Italy, confetti aren’t paper — they’re sugared almonds! Each almond symbolizes the bittersweet moments of marriage: health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and long life.
Sweet twist: Offer little almond favors in decorative bags for your guests. It’s simple, elegant, and delightfully traditional.
Japan — Sipping Sake Together
Japanese couples often participate in san-san-kudo, a ritual where they take three sips of sake from three different cups. It symbolizes unity and respect between families.
Modern take: Share a signature drink or toast during your ceremony — a cocktail that represents your love or a nod to your heritage.
Mexico — The Lazo Ceremony
In Mexico, couples are “tied” together with a lazo, usually a rosary or floral garland, forming an infinity symbol. This represents eternal love and unity.
How to make it personal: Use a family heirloom or a custom floral garland that has special meaning to you.
South Africa — Lighting a New Fire
In some South African weddings, parents bring fire from their homes to light a new flame together — symbolizing the joining of families and a new household.
Inspired idea: Light a unity candle or lantern during your ceremony to honor both families and start your journey together.
China — The Tea Ceremony
A Chinese wedding often includes a tea ceremony, where the couple serves tea to their parents and elders to show gratitude and respect.
Modern adaptation: Incorporate a “thank you” moment for your family during your ceremony or reception. It’s heartfelt, meaningful, and unforgettable.
Greece — Crowning the Couple
In Greek Orthodox weddings, couples wear crowns called stefana, connected by a ribbon symbolizing unity.
Fun twist: Floral or greenery crowns aren’t just beautiful in photos — they’re a symbolic way to show partnership and togetherness.
Ireland — Luck, Blessings, and Celtic Charm
Irish weddings are full of charm, symbolism, and a bit of playful superstition. One beloved ritual is handfasting, an ancient Celtic tradition where the couple’s hands are tied together with ribbons or cords to symbolize unity and commitment. Sometimes, the ribbons are even tied by family or friends — adding a heartfelt touch to the ceremony.
Another sweet Irish custom is carrying a shamrock or sprig of rosemary, symbols of luck, love, and remembrance. Some couples also include a wedding bell or bell-ringing ritual to bless the marriage and keep evil spirits away — a nod to centuries of folklore.
Fun idea for your wedding: Incorporate a handfasting ceremony with colorful ribbons that match your wedding colors, or give small shamrocks to guests as tokens of luck. It’s a meaningful nod to Irish heritage and adds a magical, whimsical touch to your celebration.
France — Dessert Towers That Wow
Instead of a traditional cake, many French weddings feature a croquembouche, a tower of cream-filled pastries bound with caramel.
Sweet inspiration: Serve a dessert tower or pastry display for a dramatic, delicious, and totally Instagram-worthy centerpiece.
Make It Your Own
The best part? You don’t have to stick to just one tradition. Mix and match the ones that speak to you and your partner. From Italian almonds to Japanese toasts to Irish handfastings, your wedding day can celebrate love, culture, and personality all in one.
Remember: a tradition is only meaningful if it feels authentic and heartfelt — so pick the ones that make your hearts sing!
Ready to Bring Your Traditions to Life?
From florists and caterers to planners and celebrants, our talented wedding suppliers can help you weave meaningful traditions into every detail of your big day.
Explore trusted wedding suppliers www.mybigday.ie
