Every culture has its own special wedding traditions some sweet and heartwarming, others unusual and surprising. We’ve put together a list of some of the most fascinating customs from around the world. With these in mind, you’ll be ready for anything, whether you’re the bride or a guest.
At AlterMe Bridal, we offer a beautiful range of unique wedding dresses in Auckland and proudly work with brides from many different backgrounds. We love seeing couples include their cultural traditions in their big day and watching how it creates such a beautiful mix of styles and stories.
Wedding Dresses in England and New Zealand
One of the most well-known wedding customs in New Zealand actually comes from British folklore the tradition of “something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue.” Each element carries a special meaning: something old represents the bride’s connection to her family and blessings for future children, something new symbolises a bright and happy future, something borrowed is believed to bring good luck, and something blue stands for loyalty.
There’s also a lesser-known part of the tradition placing a sixpence coin under the bride’s heel for a life filled with prosperity.
At AlterMe Bridal, we love adding a modern twist to these traditions. Our Auckland boutique has a stunning selection of colourful and blue bridal gowns, like the dreamy Beki and Maria dresses from the Floral Paradise collection. For brides wanting a subtle touch of “blue,” we also have delicate garters decorated with blue stones and soft feathers the perfect blend of tradition and style.
Wedding Dress Tradition in Brazil
In Brazil, brides have a sweet tradition that’s all about looking out for their single bridesmaids. Before the big day, the bride writes the names of her unmarried friends on the inside lining of her wedding dress. It’s believed that this gesture will help them find true love sooner.
Interestingly, a similar custom exists in Greece but with a twist. Instead of the dress lining, Greek brides write the names of their single friends on the soles of their wedding shoes.
Austrian Bridal Customs
In Austria, there’s a charming tradition that starts the wedding day with a burst of excitement. On the morning of the ceremony, the bride is expected to wake up as early as possible. In regions like Salzkammergut, Tyrol, and Styria, families still follow an old custom where relatives and friends arrive at the bride’s home at dawn, greeting her with the sounds of gunshots and fireworks.
This joyful noise isn’t just for celebration it’s believed to scare away evil spirits and ensure a happy, blessed marriage.
China – The Tujia Wedding Tradition
For the Tujia people, an ethnic group in China, a wedding traditionally begins with tears – quite literally. According to custom, the bride starts crying a month before the ceremony to show gratitude to her parents and sadness at leaving her family home. Over time, her sisters, aunts, grandmothers, and mother join in, creating a chorus of emotion.
In the 17th century, this “cry of the bride” was taken very seriously, but today it’s more of a symbolic gathering. In many families, it has turned into a joyful reunion where everyone comes together to celebrate often without any actual tears.
Mexican Wedding Celebrations
In traditional Mexican weddings, the godparents of the couple play a very important role. They not only help with all the wedding arrangements but often provide financial support as well. This is seen as a way to share their wisdom, guidance, and blessings with the newlyweds.
One of the most beautiful customs is the “wedding lasso” a large rosary made with ribbons and flowers. During the ceremony, the godparents place it around the couple in a figure-eight shape, symbolising their unity and eternal love. The lasso is both meaningful and visually stunning, adding a unique touch to any wedding dress.
Tunisian Bridal Customs
In Tunisia, wedding celebrations begin six days before the actual ceremony, making it a week filled with joy and tradition. One of the most important customs is the henna ceremony, where the bride’s hands and feet are decorated with beautiful designs.
The patterns often feature butterflies, flowers, and intricate shapes, symbolising beauty, happiness, and blessings for married life. Usually, a close relative applies the henna, making it a special and intimate family moment before the big day.
Wedding Dresses in Auckland – AlterMe Bridal Boutique
Have you decided who will join you for your wedding dress shopping in New Zealand? If yes, it’s the perfect time to book your free bridal consultation with AlterMe Bridal.
Your appointment includes a 1.5-hour private session with one of our experienced bridal consultants in our beautiful showroom. You’ll have the chance to try on as many gowns as you like, explore different styles, and find the one that feels perfect. While you enjoy the experience, your family and friends can relax and sip on complimentary beverages making it a truly special day for everyone.
