More than just tacos and tequila ...
Mexican traditions are rooted and inspired by pre-hispanic, roman and Spanish traditions that have been adapted over the years. Wedding traditions are very diverse, within a city or a family you may found a great diversity of rituals, traditions, practices, etc. In this page we will try to describe the ones we found most interesting, fun and curious. Please take a seat and enjoy!
wedding rituals at the church
13 golden coins
("Las arras")
wedding lasso
("El Lazo")
The arras are a set of 13 golden coins, that are presented to the bride as a symbol of the groom’s trust in her. The coins symbolizes the groom’s willingness and responsability to support and care for the bride. Acceptance by the bride means taking that trust and confidence unconditionally.
And don’t worry, 13 coins it’s not a sign of bad luck. In fact, according to some popular beliefs, the number 13 represents Christ and his 12 apostles.
The lasso is a string of rosary beads placed around the shoulders of the couple after the wedding vows to form sort an “8” figure as the priest blesses the couple marriage. The wedding lasso symbolizes everlasting love and unity.
We can also say, it is a useful tool to keep the groom in his place and not let him escape 🙂
flowers to virgin mary
This is more of a Catholic wedding tradition, which is not part of the rite of marriage, but many couples decide to do. Before the final blessing, the couple will bring a flower bouquet to the statue of Virgin Mary in the church and they will offer prayers asking for her intercession.
wedding party
the first dance
During the reception/wedding party the guests on the dance floor surround the bride and the groom as they enjoy their first dance. Usually, the couple choose the song they want to dance. After their first dance, the couple dances with their parents. Afterwards the dance floor is open to all the guests!
la vibora de la mar
Fun wedding tradition where the couple will stand up on two chairs facing each other and holding their hands, forming sort of an arch. The guests will then pass between the couple´s arch dancing/running. The dance represents the strength of the couple to face the future challenges in their married life.
el muertito
The groomsmen and male guests will lift the groom over their shoulders and toss him several times into the air. It is called “El muertito” (death man) as it symbolizes the death of this bachelorhood and beginning of his new life as a lucky married man.
Some people use this opportunity to “undress” the groom (normally its just the shoes and socks). The idea is that the bride collects his clothes and help him to dress again.
removing the garter
Traditionally, the groom will remove the garter from the bride´s leg, sometimes with his hands or his teeth while the crow watches and music is played.
the bouquet toss
At some point during the wedding reception, singles ladies will be called to the dancefloor and will gather in front of the bride. The bride blindfolded or facing on her back will toss the flower bouquet. Tradition says that who catches the bouquet will be the next to getting married.
the garter toss
Following the bride’s bouquet toss, the groom will toss the garter to all of the eligible bachelors at the wedding. The bachelor that catches the garter (if there is a brave one) will be the next one to get married.
tornaboda (afterparty)
Optional tradition where the couple will organize a small “gather together” to celebrate with their closest and dearest after the big party.
or
If the wedding extends until early morning, the “survivors” can go for some mexican breakfast such as spicy chilaquiles or menudo to cure the hangover.
