Customs from around the world

It is always inspirational to see what other wedding couples do around the world. Different countries and religions have different customs. There is nothing that says that we can't adopt some of these wonderful ideas for our own wedding day celebrations, especially if your family happens to be of a particular culture.

In Ireland, the Claddagh ring remains the standard Irish wedding ring. The heart, crown and hands symbolize love, loyalty and friendship. This particular ring is from Celtic-Rings. They have an amazing selection to choose from if you are looking for something different to declare your love for each other.

This symbol would look lovely gracing your invitations if one of the couple comes from an Irish background for just a subtle nod to your heritage.

In Mexico, the officiating priest will use a very large rosary, called a lasso, to tie the hands of the bride and groom as they recite their vows. This is to show the union and protection of marriage. This handcrafted lasso comes from Bonanzlee and is made by Rosarycrafter in Indianapolis, IN. It would be a beautiful keepsake to wind around the handle of your bouquet later to be passed down to future generations.

In Turkey, the bride has all of her female friends write down their names on the inside of her shoe. At the end of the night, the woman's name which is no longer visible is deemed the next the marry.

In Taiwan, on the morning of the wedding, it is the groom who meets the bride at her house. Before he lays eyes on his bride, he must kneel in front of her parents and promise them that he will care for her. Sounds like a great idea for all grooms to do!

In Poland, a centuries old custom has been the "money dance" where guests pin money to a dancing bride and groom in order to help them financially build a new life together. Sounds like this is one custom that American couples have taken to heart and called it the "Dollar Dance."

This picture comes from flickr.com

Many of you who know me, know that I am not a fan of the "Dollar Dance." I have never liked the idea of "paying for the privilege" of dancing with the bride and the groom. However, if you are Polish and starting a home together, then I think this idea has merit and is a lovely way to incorporate some tradition. Using the money to start you life together makes sense and I would see your guests wanting to do this for the newly married couple. Holding a Dollar Dance to pay for the liquor tab is tacky.