Colombian Wedding Traditions: A Unique Celebration of Love
Colombia is a country rich in culture and tradition, and this is especially evident in their wedding ceremonies. From unique customs to vibrant celebrations, Colombian weddings are a true reflection of the country’s spirit and heritage. In this article, we will delve into some of the most fascinating Colombian wedding traditions that are sure to captivate and inspire.
One of the most beloved Colombian wedding customs is the shoe hiding tradition. As the bride dances and mingles with her guests, all the single male attendees discreetly place their shoes underneath her dress. The bride then selects one shoe, and it is believed that the owner of that shoe will be the next man to find love and get married. This tradition not only adds an element of fun to the celebration but also honors a close friend or relative who may be searching for their own happily ever after.
Another iconic Colombian wedding tradition is the use of the mantilla. The bride often adorns her head with a mantilla, a traditional lace veil. This beautiful accessory, combined with flowers, elegantly shrouds the bride, adding an air of mystery and allure to her appearance. Colombian women take great pride in their appearance, especially on their wedding day, and the mantilla is a cherished symbol of their beauty and grace.
When it comes to food and drink, Colombian weddings have their own unique customs as well. One popular tradition is the pairing of hot chocolate with cheese. you read that right! It is common for guests to enjoy a cup of rich, steaming hot chocolate alongside a slice of cheese. The combination of the sweet and savory flavors creates a delightful taste sensation that is both comforting and delicious.
In addition to the unconventional hot chocolate and cheese pairing, Colombian weddings also involve sharing shot glasses. Instead of each guest having their own individual shot glass, they pass around a single glass and take turns toasting the couple’s happiness. This communal act symbolizes unity and the coming together of friends and family to celebrate the union of two souls.
Colombians are known for their love of sports, and this passion extends to their wedding celebrations as well. One unique sport played during Colombian weddings is called “tejo.” This game involves throwing iron weights at a target, while fireworks explode in the background. It may sound dangerous, but it is a thrilling and exhilarating activity that adds an element of excitement to the festivities. Of course, safety precautions are taken to ensure everyone’s well-being.
Colombian weddings are known for their extended celebration of Christmas. While many countries celebrate Christmas on December 25th, Colombians take it a step further by celebrating the entire month of December. From festive decorations to lively parties, the Christmas spirit fills the air, adding an extra layer of joy and merriment to the wedding festivities.
Colombian weddings are a vibrant and unforgettable experience, filled with unique customs and traditions that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the shoe hiding tradition to the use of mantillas, the hot chocolate and cheese pairing to the communal shot glasses, and the thrilling sport of tejo to the month-long celebration of Christmas, each element adds its own special touch to create a truly memorable event. So, if you ever have the opportunity to attend a Colombian wedding, be prepared to be immersed in a world of love, joy, and enchantment.
What Are Wedding Traditions In Colombia?
Colombia, a country rich in culture and traditions, has several unique wedding customs that make the celebration truly special. Here are some of the wedding traditions in Colombia:
1. Arras: Similar to many Latin American countries, Colombian weddings often include the tradition of the arras. During the ceremony, the groom places thirteen coins, known as arras, into the bride’s hands. This symbolizes his commitment to support and provide for their future together.
2. La Lasso: Another common tradition is the “la lasso” or “el lazo” ceremony. This involves placing a floral garland or rope around the couple’s shoulders in the shape of a figure-eight. The lasso symbolizes the unity and eternal bond between the bride and groom.
3. Serenata: In some regions of Colombia, it is customary for the groom to serenade his bride the night before the wedding. Accompanied by musicians, he sings romantic songs outside her window to express his love and anticipation for their union.
4. Shoe Hiding: As mentioned earlier, a fun tradition involves single male guests hiding their shoes under the bride’s dress during the reception. The bride then selects one shoe, and it is believed that the owner of that shoe will be the next to get married.
5. Money Dance: A popular tradition at Colombian weddings is the “money dance” or “la hora loca.” Guests pin money onto the bride and groom’s clothing while dancing with them. This money is meant to help the couple start their new life together.
6. Candle Ceremony: During the wedding ceremony, the couple often performs a candle ceremony. They each hold a lit candle and use it to light a larger unity candle, symbolizing their individual lives blending into one.
7. Throwing Rice: As the newlyweds exit the ceremony venue, guests shower them with rice. This is a symbol of fertility and prosperity for the couple’s future.
8. Wedding Coins: In some Colombian weddings, the couple exchanges special coins called “arras matrimoniales.” These coins represent the couple’s commitment to jointly manage their finances and share their wealth.
9. Wedding Cake Charms: Charms are often placed inside the wedding cake, and each single female guest selects one. The charm they choose is believed to predict their future. For example, a ring charm signifies upcoming marriage, while a coin charm represents wealth.
10. Traditional Colombian Music and Dance: Colombian weddings are usually filled with lively music and traditional dance performances, such as cumbia, vallenato, and salsa. Guests enthusiastically participate, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
These are just a few of the many wedding traditions that can be found in Colombia. Each region may have its own unique customs, adding to the diversity and richness of Colombian wedding celebrations.
Who Pays For Wedding In Colombia?
In Colombia, the responsibility for paying for a wedding is typically shared between the couple and their families. However, it is common for the couple to bear the majority of the expenses. On average, couples in Colombia cover around 55 percent of the total wedding costs.
Here is a breakdown of the financial contributions from different parties involved:
1. Couples: In Colombia, it is expected that the couple will take on a significant portion of the wedding expenses. This includes costs such as the venue, catering, decorations, wedding attire, photography, entertainment, and other related expenses.
2. Parents: While the couple pays the majority, it is also customary for the parents of the bride and groom to contribute financially to the wedding. The exact amount varies depending on the families’ financial situation and cultural customs. Parents may offer to cover specific expenses, such as the wedding ceremony, reception, or some of the vendors.
3. Padrinos (Godparents): In Colombian culture, padrinos are honorary sponsors who play a significant role in supporting the couple during the wedding planning process. They may help with specific costs, such as the wedding cake, flowers, music, or any other aspect they choose to sponsor. The couple selects padrinos, usually close friends or family members, to honor them and show appreciation for their support.
It is worth noting that the distribution of expenses can vary depending on individual circumstances, cultural traditions, and personal preferences. Some couples may choose to cover the entire cost of the wedding themselves, while others may receive more financial assistance from their families. Ultimately, the decision on who pays for what is determined by the couple and their families’ mutual agreement.
What Do Colombian Brides Wear?
Colombian brides are known for their impeccable sense of style and their attention to detail when it comes to their wedding attire. One key element of a traditional Colombian bridal outfit is the mantilla. This is a lace or silk veil that is worn over the head and shoulders, typically reaching down to the waist or even longer. The mantilla is often adorned with intricate lacework and delicate embroideries, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the bride’s ensemble.
In addition to the mantilla, Colombian brides also like to incorporate flowers into their wedding attire. These flowers can be worn in various ways, such as in the hair, as a hair accessory, or even as a bouquet. The choice of flowers can vary depending on personal preference and the overall theme of the wedding, but some popular choices include roses, orchids, and lilies.
Colombian brides also pay great attention to the overall look and fit of their wedding dress. They often opt for dresses that are tailored to their body shape and accentuate their curves. The dresses may be made of luxurious fabrics such as silk or satin, and they may feature intricate beadwork, lace appliques, or other embellishments.
To summarize, Colombian brides typically wear a mantilla, which is a veil that covers the head and shoulders and is adorned with lace or embroidery. They also incorporate flowers into their wedding attire, either as accessories or as a bouquet. The wedding dress itself is carefully chosen to fit and flatter the bride’s body shape, often featuring luxurious fabrics and intricate details.
What Are Some Colombian Traditions?
Colombia is a country known for its vibrant culture and rich traditions. Here are some Colombian customs that are unique to the country:
1. Hot chocolate and cheese: In Colombia, it is common to have hot chocolate with a side of cheese. The cheese is often added to the hot chocolate and allowed to melt, creating a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors.
2. Drinking from cardboard boxes: Locals in Colombia often drink beverages, such as fruit juices or sodas, from small cardboard boxes called “tetra packs.” This is a common sight in street food markets and is a convenient way to enjoy drinks on the go.
3. Sharing shot glasses: When drinking alcoholic beverages, Colombians have a tradition of sharing shot glasses. Instead of having individual glasses, a communal shot glass, known as a “ponche,” is passed around among friends or family members.
4. Playing tejo: Tejo is a traditional Colombian sport that involves throwing iron weights at a target filled with gunpowder. The objective is to hit the gunpowder and create an explosion. This game is often played while enjoying beers with friends.
5. Celebrating Christmas for the whole of December: Colombians take Christmas celebrations to another level by extending the festivities for the entire month of December. They decorate their homes with lights and nativity scenes, and there are numerous parades, fireworks, and parties throughout the month.
6. Día de las Velitas: On December 7th, Colombians celebrate the Día de las Velitas (Day of the Little Candles) to honor the Virgin Mary. People light candles and place them on the streets, balconies, and windowsills, creating a beautiful display of lights throughout the country.
These are just a few examples of the unique customs and traditions that make Colombia a culturally diverse and fascinating country.
Conclusion
Colombian wedding traditions are rich in cultural significance and provide a unique and memorable experience for both the couple and their guests. From the custom of hiding shoes under the bride’s dress to determine the next man to get married, to the bride’s elegant mantilla and the shared responsibility of wedding costs, these traditions reflect the importance of family, community, and celebration in Colombian culture.
The tradition of hiding shoes adds an element of fun and anticipation to the wedding festivities, while also honoring a loved one and involving their support in the couple’s future. The bride’s mantilla, combined with flowers, adds an exquisite touch to her appearance, emphasizing the importance of beauty and elegance in Colombian weddings.
The shared responsibility of wedding costs reflects the value placed on mutual support and cooperation within families and communities. While the couple pays a significant portion of the expenses, the participation of padrinos helps to alleviate some of the financial burden and symbolizes their commitment to the couple’s happiness and success.
These customs, along with others like drinking hot chocolate with cheese, drinking from cardboard boxes, sharing shot glasses, and engaging in unique sports and celebrations during Christmas, showcase the vibrant and lively nature of Colombian culture. They create a sense of unity and joy, making Colombian weddings truly special and unforgettable.
Colombian wedding traditions are a beautiful blend of heritage, love, and celebration. They add depth and meaning to the wedding experience, and only locals truly understand and appreciate their significance. Whether you’re a participant or an observer, these traditions create cherished memories and highlight the rich cultural tapestry of Colombia.
