Planning destination weddings has allowed us to get acquainted with so many beautiful traditions and faiths. Here are three unique, heartfelt wedding traditions from around the world that can easily be woven into your celebration, wherever you tie the knot.
LA HORA LOCA
Commonly celebrated in Latin America.
“La Hora Loca” translates to “The Crazy Hour.” It is a staple (and pivotal) moment in Latin American celebrations. It marks the start of a late-night surprise party during the reception. Though entertainment varies, many “Horas Locas” include costumed dancers, glow sticks, live drums or DJs, and carnival-like energy.
La Hora Loca is the ultimate dance floor revival, energizing guests into the night. It symbolizes joyful chaos and invites guests to a rowdier, passionate spirit.
Hora Loca Ideas:
- Theme-based party favors like favorite football teams, college alumni, or Mexican festivities
- Fireworks or fire shows
- Dance performances
- Musical performances
Ask your resort or planner about local performers across All In Weddings Destinations.
THE LASSO CEREMONY
Commonly celebrated in Mexico, the Philippines, and Spain.
Traditionally, this beautiful visual can be easily incorporated into a destination ceremony within the Catholic faith.
The Lasso ceremony involves placing a decorative rope or floral “lasso” around the couple’s shoulders in a figure eight, symbolizing their eternal bond to each other and to God. This often comes as a rosary but can also be seen as a silk cord or flower garland.
The All In Weddings teams can easily accommodate these special details into the religious ceremonies. Please ask your AIW specialist about the specifics of this tradition during the planning process.
3. Henna Party / mendhi night
In South Asian wedding traditions, this pre-wedding gathering, which offers intricate henna designs, also known as mehndi, symbolizes positive spirits, good luck, and prosperity for the bride.
This joyous, festive celebration creates special moments with guests before the big day. The bride and close guests have intricate henna designs applied to their hands and feet. It is typically accompanied by music, dancing, and snacks.
Henna is believed to bring good luck, fertility, and protection. It’s also a bonding ritual between the bride and the women in her life.
Some couples may choose to have the mehndi party and the sangeet together, creating one large, vibrant celebration that combines the artistry of henna with lively music, dance, and performances. A sangeet, for reference, is another pre-wedding tradition centered on celebrating the couple through song, dance, and joyous entertainment shared with close family and friends
The All In Weddings team celebrates the rich traditions of South Asian weddings. Our team is well-versed in preparations, ask about Henna and Mehndi Night celebrations.
Celebrate With Meaning with All In Weddings
As wedding planners, we have the fortune of helping coordinate joyous unions. Uniting people worldwide allows us to learn more about how people celebrate happy moments across cultures.
From high-energy dance traditions to peaceful ceremonial blessings, incorporating cultural elements adds heart, depth, and celebration to your destination wedding. Making the celebration unforgettable.
ready to add a personal (and global) touch to your wedding day?
Talk to your All In Weddings Specialist to explore ways to incorporate cultural traditions into your wedding weekend.
