France
The marriage ceremony is a public event in France, and the wedding is performed by the mayor at the town hall – although couples can choose to have a religious ceremony afterward. The French cortège involves two lovely traditions. Firstly, the entrance to the ceremony where the groom leads the way with his mother, followed by the rest of the wedding party. The second includes children, who either walk down the aisle in front of the bride, spreading petals, or
follow, holding her train.
Spain
While customs vary, one thing all Spanish weddings have in common is their size – expect at least 200 guests! And, as with most social events in Spain, weddings start late (often the ceremony won’t begin until 7pm), and continue until the early hours of the morning. During the evening, the bride and groom circulate from table to table carrying a basket with small detalles (wedding favours) for each guest. The couple also exchange 13 gold coins as a symbol of the finances they will equally share.
Mexico
Mexicans have a deep spiritual affinity with weddings. To this end, the bride carries two bouquets – one is left behind at the church for the Virgin Mary, and the other is the bouquet she’ll use for the customary toss. Weddings involve a full mass, where the couple and their attendants stand or kneel at the altar. Celebrations continue until the early hours of the morning and are filled with music and food.
Russia
Before a Russian wedding, the groom must free his “kidnapped” bride from her friends and family. She’s usually hidden in her parents’ home, and the groom will make his way through a series of fun obstacles to reach her, paying a “ransom” of chocolate or Champagne. At the grand reception, the newlyweds must kiss each other after each toast, with guests shouting for more until they consider their wine sweetened enough by the exchange of love.
greatdestinationweddings.com.au 81