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Mexican Wedding Traditions

Weddings in Mexico and other Latino cultures are extremely festive, and often very large affairs with many attendants. Engagements can last a long time, and, in some areas, the bride receives a “ring of promise,” sometimes up to a year before the actual engagement ring.

A wedding party may include “sponsors,” who are often godparents of the bride, who also contribute to the cost of the wedding. It requires a lot of discussion to establish the budget and be clear about who will be paying for what parts of the ceremony. Wedding invitations often include a list of the bridal party, including the sponsors. The sponsors pledge to support the couple both financially and spiritually throughout their married life

The wedding attendants are called “madrinas” and “padrinos,” and they have many special roles in the wedding. The flower girl and ring bearer are dressed as miniature versions of the bride and groom. The madrina de ramo carries flowers for the Virgin Mary. The madrina de copas carries the wine glasses for the toast. Madrinas or padrinos carry a prayer book, a rosary, a guest book for signatures and an embroidered pillow to commemorate the day.

The madrina de laso carries a jeweled or beaded rope that is placed around the couple as they say their vows, to symbolize their union. The madrina de arras carries 13 coins that will be blessed by the priest and which the bridegroom will present to the bride near the end of the ceremony.

The procession, which is usually accompanied by organ music, may also include a madrina de velacion, who the bride has chosen to turn to for guidance throughout her married life. The last persons in the procession carry the recuerdos, which are remembrances given to the guests.

Most weddings will use mariachi music at the end of the ceremony as a part of the recessional.

The reception is always family-oriented and very festive. Everyone is presumed to be invited; there is no need for separate invitations to the reception. For the bridal couple’s first dance, guests will gather in a heart-shaped ring around the couple. Salsa, merengue and flamenco guitar music add a Latin flare to the reception. The food may include traditional Mexican dishes and drinks, such as sangria, spicy rice, beans, and tortilla dishes with chicken and beef. Traditional wedding favors might be wedding cookies wrapped in tulle, Spanish fans, or pieces of pottery could be given.

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