Prior to a Latin American wedding ceremony, the groom may give his bride thirteen coins that serve to symbolize Christ and his twelve disciples. This is also a way of asking for the bride’s hand in marriage. The bride accepts the coins, which she then carries in a small bag through the ceremony, as it is a sign that the groom has made a pledge to support and take care of her. In the Hispanic wedding ceremony however, the thirteen gold coins should actually be made of gold, since these also serve to pay off part of the dowry. The priest blesses these; they are then passed between the couples hands several times before being placed on the bible. A long rope or a rosary is used to circle above the couple’s head’s in a figure 8 motion. This is to symbolize their union. Latin American wedding ceremonies involve brightly colored linens, wedding decorations, and flowers. In Puerto Rico a doll is dressed in a bridal gown and placed at the head table. The wedding dress goes with a gorgeous veil. The hems were sometimes adorned with the traditional flamenco ruffles, but the styles have obviously changed in modern times.
In Argentina the bride is escorted down the aisle by her father. At the altar only the couples parents and godparents stand with them since there are no bridesmaids and groomsmen. In Chile engaged couples wear rings but on their right hands until they are married, when they transfer the rings to the left hand. Throughout Latin America it is the godparent’s responsibility to guide couples through the marriage ceremony. In Mexico they go a step further by supporting the couple both spiritually and financially. Godparents can be chosen either at birth or marriage and most continue supporting the married couple throughout their life. Traditional Latin American wedding cakes are made with dried fruit and nuts which is then soaked in lots of rum. Foods served during traditional Latin-American wedding ceremonies is delicious, and includes pastries stuffed with meat and vegetables, beef stew, fried plantains, and yummy rice dishes. Flan is used as a dessert and the delicious custard is prepared from eggs, vanilla, milk and caramelized sugar. There is also a secret combination of wine, sugar, brandy, seltzer and fruit that the family may prepare in honour of the big day. The non-alcoholic drinks from Mexico are available in many flavors, and the popular drink Batido is a fruit shake made from ice, milk and fresh fruit.
At a traditional Latin American wedding reception, a variety of traditional Spanish music is played ranging from salsa, mambo, meringue, flamenco and samba. The married couple is always the first to take a dance. At a traditional Mexican wedding, prior to the dance beginning, it is normal for the guests to surround the couple in a heart-shaped ring, while at a Cuban wedding, any man who dances with the bride attaches money to her gown. In some Latin American countries, the guests receive gifts as well. They are usually small ornaments, with the names of the bride and groom printed on them as well as the wedding date.
For your traditional Latin American wedding, why not hire Babylon? For over 25 years, we have been specializing in the wedding business. We want to make sure all your needs are met, and that your traditional Latin-American wedding runs smoothly and stress-free! We can provide wedding performers that speak Spanish, and will perform in Spanish as well! Whether you want a Spanish-speaking wedding DJ, wedding singer, or a live band that will perform traditional Latin-American music, Babylon can help! We will capture your entire day on camera, then edit it to your liking to ensure you get what you want on your precious wedding DVD production. Our skilled videographers can even include a soundtrack with traditional Latin-American love songs, or any songs you desire!
If you want to arrive in style, we can also provide limousine service all over the GTA and surrounding areas! Arrive in style at your wedding, and allow our wedding photographers to capture your gorgeous day on camera! Our company is knowledgeable and experienced, and we focus on making you happy. Trust the best in the wedding and wedding photography business.
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