Mexico is a country rich in history, culture, and traditions, making it the ideal destination for a wedding full of authenticity. Incorporating Mexican customs not only adds a special touch to your wedding but also enriches your guests’ experience, allowing them to be part of a unique celebration. Below are the most common and significant traditions that you can integrate into your destination wedding in Mexico, arranged by relevance and frequency of use.
1. The Lazo
The lazo is one of the most emblematic traditions in Mexican weddings. During the ceremony, a cord or rosary is placed in the shape of a figure eight over the shoulders of the couple, symbolizing the eternal union of the bride and groom. This ritual represents mutual commitment and devotion. Including the lazo in your destination wedding is a beautiful way to add deep meaning to your ceremony.
2. The Arras
The exchange of arras (coins) is another symbolic ritual in Mexican weddings. The groom gives the bride thirteen gold or silver coins as a symbol of his promise to provide and share his wealth. The arras represent prosperity and mutual trust, and this moment can be a meaningful way to highlight the values of unity and support in your relationship.
3. The Money Dance
This is one of the most fun and characteristic moments of a Mexican wedding. During the “money dance,” guests approach the bride and groom to dance with them while pinning money to their clothes. This act is symbolic, as it represents the wish for prosperity for the newlyweds and helps them start their new life with a small financial contribution.
4. The Bridal Bouquet
The bouquet toss is a much-anticipated tradition at weddings, and Mexico is no exception. The bride throws her bouquet to the single women, and it is believed that whoever catches it will be the next to marry. This gesture is filled with excitement and anticipation, making it a joyful moment during the celebration.
5. The Garter
Similar to the bouquet toss, the garter tradition is part of Mexican wedding folklore. The groom removes the garter from the bride’s leg and then tosses it to the single men present. The man who catches the garter is believed to be the next to marry, adding a sense of fun and expectation to the event.
6. Callejoneada
In colonial cities like San Miguel de Allende or Guanajuato, the callejoneada is a popular tradition. It is a parade through the streets, led by mariachi bands and giant puppets known as mojigangas. The bride, groom, and guests walk through the streets, celebrating with music and dancing. This is a unique cultural experience that adds a festive and memorable touch to your wedding.
7. Mariachi Music
Mariachi music is one of the most recognizable elements of Mexican culture. Including a mariachi band for the ceremony or reception brings an authentic and festive atmosphere. They can perform classics like “Cielito Lindo” or romantic serenades, making your wedding a truly unforgettable moment.
8. Wedding Sponsors
In Mexican weddings, padrinos (sponsors) play a crucial role. Not only do they assist financially in certain aspects of the wedding, but they also have a symbolic role in supporting the couple in their married life. It is common to have sponsors for the arras, the lazo, the rings, and more. This tradition highlights the importance of family and community in marriage.
9. El Muertito (The Little Dead One)
“El muertito” is a fun tradition involving the groom. During the reception, the groom’s friends lift him up and carry him as if he were a corpse, shaking him and tossing him into the air. This is a comical and symbolic way to bid farewell to the groom’s single life, creating a moment filled with laughter and joy.
10. Decor Inspired by Folk Art
Mexican folk art, such as paper flowers, papel picado (cut paper), and piñatas, are decorations that add color and joy to any wedding. These handcrafted items bring life to the spaces and are commonly used in weddings to give a vibrant and authentic touch. You can customize your decor with traditional colors like red, blue, and yellow, which reflect the warmth and energy of Mexican culture.
Additional Considerations for Your Wedding in Mexico
When incorporating local traditions into your destination wedding, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure that all details align with your wishes and respect the cultural significance of each custom. Communication with your vendors is key to making sure everything flows harmoniously and respectfully.
Why Choose Us?
At ArteVisualMF, we specialize in capturing the essence of your destination wedding in Mexico, incorporating every cultural tradition and detail that makes your day special and unforgettable. With our focus on multicultural weddings, we guarantee photographs and videos that reflect both the love between the couple and the authenticity of local traditions. Explore our portfolio and discover how we can help you make the wedding of your dreams a reality, surrounded by the beauty of Mexico.
