By Veronika Lazabal
Aztec, Catholic, and Spanish influences all combine to make Mexican weddings lavish and colorful affairs. While modern Mexican and Mexican American brides are choosing more and more variety in the style and details of their nuptials, a rich history steeped in culture and tradition means that many beautiful customs are still very much a part of Mexican bodas.
For example, many Mexican wedding dresses, veils, or mantillas have been handed down for a couple of generations—making them both “something borrowed” and an heirloom piece that adds a touch of class, elegance and nostalgia to your ceremony. But be careful: according to Mexican tradition, it’s bad luck for the groom to see not only the bride, but the dress or any part of the novia’s ensemble before she walks down the aisle.
After the religious ceremony, (which traditionally includes la ceremonia del lasso, where the bride and groom are joined together with a long rosary or silk rope) the festivities will move to the reception, where the guests will form a heart around the newlyweds as they dance their first dance. The dollar dance also originated in Mexico, not only as a way to help out the new couple financially, but also to give them a chance to spend a few moments with each guest individually.
And for an added bit of luck, prosperity, and passion… the bride should always remember to sew a yellow, blue, and red ribbon to her wedding lingerie!
