EVERY CULTURE has its own time-honoured take on weddings. Many are romantic, some are quirky (ever heard of a kidnapped bride?), but pretty much all of them make for a memorable story. Be inspired by how your destination does “I do”.
Poland
Loose change is showered over the couple as they exit the church after a Polish wedding. Later, the groom invites guests to “buy” a dance with the bride at the reception, and the proceeds go towards the honeymoon. A central part of the ceremony is the presentation of bread and salt to the newlyweds. The parents offer this – the bread in hope that their children will never experience hunger, and the salt to remind the couple that life may be difficult at times and they must work together to cope with struggles.
Germany
Weddings in Deutschland are lots of fun. The couple’s families host a party the night before the wedding, where they break plates for luck. On the wedding day, the couple may saw a tree trunk together in front of their guests, as a symbol of their ability to work as a team. Another tradition sees guests 'kidnap' the bride, whisking her from bar to bar while the groom searches for his sweetheart.
Scotland
Not surprisingly, a Scottish wedding involves a grand march to the stirring sound of bagpipes. Later, at the reception, the newlyweds hit the dance floor first, along with the maid of honour and the best man, followed by the rest of the guests. The day before the wedding, the couple are doused in ashes, feathers and flour, which is meant to ward off evil spirits.
The customs of your chosen destination could add a special element to your day
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