Weddings in Mexico are known for their vibrant colors, delicious food, and lively music. While many Mexican weddings have religious elements, there are plenty of non-religious traditions that can be incorporated into a wedding ceremony and reception. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding in Mexico or simply want to infuse some Mexican culture into your special day, here are some non-religious Mexican wedding traditions to consider.
The Lasso Ceremony
One popular Mexican wedding tradition is the lasso ceremony, also known as el lazo. This involves placing a rosary or a cord in the shape of a figure-eight around the couple’s necks to symbolize their unity as a couple. The cord is typically made from flowers, beads, or satin and can be as elaborate or as simple as the couple desires.
The Coin Ceremony
Another non-religious Mexican wedding tradition is the coin ceremony, or el arras. During this ceremony, the groom gives the bride thirteen gold coins, which represent his commitment to supporting her financially. The bride then gives the coins back to the groom as a symbol of her trust in him to provide for their family.
The Mexican Wedding Dance
No Mexican wedding would be complete without a lively dance. The Mexican wedding dance, or la vibora de la mar, involves lifting the bride and groom on chairs while their wedding party dances around them. This tradition can be adapted to fit the couple’s preferences, whether it’s a salsa dance or a more modern style.
The Wedding Cake
The wedding cake is an essential part of any wedding, and in Mexico, it’s traditionally a fruitcake soaked in rum. The cake is often decorated with fresh flowers, and the bride and groom cut the first slice together. Mexican wedding cakes can also be adapted to suit the couple’s preferences, whether it’s a traditional fruitcake or a modern tiered cake.
The Wedding Reception
Mexican wedding receptions are known for their lively atmosphere and delicious food. Some traditional Mexican dishes to include in your wedding reception menu include tamales, mole, and chiles rellenos. To keep the party going, consider hiring a mariachi band or a DJ to play music that will get your guests on the dance floor.
The Wedding Favors
Wedding favors are a great way to thank your guests for attending your special day. In Mexico, it’s customary to give guests small gifts like mini bottles of tequila or traditional Mexican sweets like cajeta or dulce de leche. Personalized shot glasses with the couple’s names and wedding date are also a popular wedding favor option.
The Wedding Exit
Finally, the wedding exit is another opportunity to incorporate non-religious Mexican wedding traditions into your special day. Instead of throwing rice or confetti, consider having your guests throw colorful papel picado, or Mexican paper flags, as you exit the ceremony or reception.
Conclusion
Incorporating non-religious Mexican wedding traditions into your special day is a great way to celebrate your love and honor your heritage. From the lasso ceremony to the wedding cake, there are plenty of ways to infuse Mexican culture into your wedding ceremony and reception.
FAQ
What are some non-religious Mexican wedding traditions?
Some non-religious Mexican wedding traditions include the lasso ceremony, the coin ceremony, the Mexican wedding dance, the wedding cake, the wedding reception, the wedding favors, and the wedding exit.
What is the lasso ceremony?
The lasso ceremony, or el lazo, involves placing a rosary or a cord in the shape of a figure-eight around the couple’s necks to symbolize their unity as a couple.
What is the coin ceremony?
The coin ceremony, or el arras, involves the groom giving the bride thirteen gold coins, which represent his commitment to supporting her financially. The bride then gives the coins back to the groom as a symbol of her trust in him to provide for their family.
