Today our Day Translations blog explores American weddings and wedding traditions of the U.S.A. That said, let’s not waste any more time and dive right into these fun traditions. We’ll also take a look at how they’ve evolved over time.
Weddings are always great occasions to look forward to. Within the USA, it’s no different. Given the diversity that exists within society, it’s only fitting that many of the wedding traditions that exist today are drawn from other countries and cultures and fused together to make something unique and beautiful.
Amazing American Weddings
Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Something Blue
You’ve probably heard this rhyme from time to time and instantly associate it with someone getting married. But do you know the story behind it?
This is an old tradition that had meaning for every element involved. Something old was symbolic of the old ties the bride would be leaving behind with her family along with all other ‘old things’ of the past. To mirror this was something new which was symbolic of the new life the bride would soon have with her husband.
It was customary for something borrowed to come from a couple who had had a successful marriage as a way to pass on good fortune. And something blue was needed as a symbol of loyalty, faithfulness, and purity.
Of course, this tradition has evolved over the years, and today, Americans have revamped it to take on a more personal and simpler manner. It’s also a way of staying grounded throughout the epic journey of planning wedding! Something old is usually a family heirloom of some sort and is usually passed down to the bride. There have also been even more innovative and fun ways to include something old in the ceremony. One example is a vintage photo booth or an antique getaway car.
Having a Best Man
Did you know that centuries ago, the need for a groom to have a best man came mostly from that person’s skill with the sword and to fight? These days, weddings are a public declaration of a couple’s love for each other, but there once was a time when weddings were actually business transactions.
In the case of the groom, during those times, he needed a man skilled with the sword, and in combat, just in case the transaction didn’t go as planned.
Today, however, the groom’s best man is a best friend who has been there with him throughout significant life milestones.
In terms of dress, men usually opt for a wedding suit or semi-formal wedding attire based on the event location and environment.
Brides Wearing White
It was Queen Victoria who made the bride wearing a white dress a widespread tradition all over the world. This trend has transcended time, cultures, and customs and, to this day, is still part of the American wedding tradition.
Having a Wedding Party
One thing we’re sure of is that wedding parties make for great wedding pictures. A wedding party isn’t a tradition unique to the US; it consists of Bridesmaids and Groomsmen.
Of course, couples choose who they want to be part of their wedding party. The tradition originated from Ancient Rome, where the bride needed ten witnesses who didn’t necessarily have to be related to the bride in any way. They were just required to stand next to the bride and dress similarly. It was a tactic used to bring confusion to any evil spirits wanting to harm the newlywed couple.
Tossing the Garter
Many wedding guests look forward to the garter toss. It’s usually a dramatic moment with people falling over each other on a mission to catch the bride’s garter.
This tradition was very popular in France and England as guests fought to be the ones to catch the garter. It is symbolic of good luck to the person who is successful in acquiring it. This gesture was used by couples as an escape route to get to their wedding reception. Today the garter toss usually takes place during the wedding reception and is usually for the men in attendance. Whoever caught the garter would be the next or soon-to-be married.
Throwing Rice
American wedding traditions more often than not send off the newlywed couple in fine style. It was very popular for rice to be thrown at the couples as a symbol of their good wishes for them. Today, guests will blow bubbles, throw dried lavender or even wave sparkles instead of throwing rice. It’s a far less messy alternative.
Let’s Wrap Up
American weddings bring with them some great time-honored traditions. America’s very diverse population makes it the perfect melting pot for both old and newer traditions to come alive.
Of course, at Day Translations, we not only love languages; we love culture and diversity as well. Need a translator or interpreter for your big day? We’ve got you covered. Our team of professionals is available 24/7 to cater to your needs.