Wedding Traditions: Where They Come From and What They Really Mean
- George Polgar
- Jan 12
- 12 min read
Wedding traditions are a bit like that one relative who insists on giving a speech -- sometimes confusing, occasionally awkward, but usually coming from a place of love. From throwing rice to jumping over brooms, couples all over the world follow rituals they've seen hundreds of times... without always knowing why.
Some traditions are deeply symbolic, others wildly practical (looking at you, wedding rings), and a few were clearly invented centuries ago by someone having a very strange day. But one thing's certain: wedding traditions help turn a wedding from "nice event" into a meaningful rite of passage.
In this guide, we'll unpack where these traditions come from, what they originally meant, and how modern couples choose which ones to keep, tweak, or happily ignore.
Key Takeaways
Wedding traditions originate from cultural, historical, and symbolic needs.
You don't have to follow every tradition for your wedding to feel meaningful.
Modern couples often reinterpret traditions to reflect personal values.
Quick navigation // Table of Contents
Baraat & Varmala (India)
San-san-kudo (Japan)
Handfasting (Ireland)
Tea Ceremony (China)
Maasai Jumping Dance (Kenya)
Las Arras (Mexico)
Maori Poi Dance (New Zealand)
What wedding tradition is most unique?
What is the traditional gift for a New Zealand wedding?
What is a popular tradition in New Zealand?
1) What Are Wedding Traditions?
At their core, wedding traditions are rituals designed to mark transition -- from individual to partnership, from one family unit to another. They help communities recognise that something significant has changed.
Historically, weddings weren't just about romance. They were tied to inheritance, alliances, religion, and survival. Traditions added structure and clarity: who belongs where, what happens next, and what this new union means for everyone involved.
Today, many of those original reasons no longer apply -- but the rituals remain. And that's because humans still crave symbolism. Traditions give weddings emotional weight, turning a single day into a moment that feels larger than itself.
Another reason traditions endure is because they offer comfort during moments of change. Weddings mark a major life transition, and rituals help make that shift feel intentional rather than overwhelming. They give shape to emotion -- especially when words fall short.
Even when traditions evolve, their purpose stays the same: to create meaning, connection, and continuity during one of life's most significant milestones.
2) Classic Wedding Traditions and Their Meanings
Something Old, Something New...
This little rhyme has been around for well over a century, and it's basically the original wedding "checklist" -- short, memorable, and oddly specific. Most versions trace back to Victorian England, where the idea was to surround the bride with symbols of luck, continuity, and protection as she stepped into married life.
The meaning sits in the details. Something old represents continuity -- a link to your past, your whānau, and the people who shaped you. Something new symbolises optimism for the future you're building together. Something borrowed is traditionally lent by a happily married friend, as a kind of "good relationship energy transfer" (not scientific, but emotionally convincing). And something blue has long been associated with love, fidelity, and purity -- basically, the emotional equivalent of a lucky charm.
You'll also find global variations, because humans everywhere love a good symbolic shortcut. In some cultures it's not about four items, but about wearing a family heirloom, carrying a blessing, or incorporating a specific colour or object for luck. The modern version is simple: keep what feels meaningful, skip what feels like a chore, and don't panic if your "something blue" ends up being a blue sock. The universe will cope.
Giving Away the Bride
Historically, this wedding tradition wasn't romantic -- it was transactional. In many Western contexts, "giving away" the bride reflected a time when marriage was tied to property, alliances, and patriarchal family structures. The walk down the aisle symbolised a transfer of responsibility from father to husband, which is... not exactly the vibe most couples are going for in 2026.
Today, it's viewed in a much broader, more personal way. For many couples, it's not about ownership -- it's about support. Walking with a parent (or parents), a sibling, a best friend, or a chosen family member can be a beautiful way to honour the people who helped get you here. And some couples flip the script entirely: walking in together, walking alone, or having both partners escorted in.
In short: this tradition can be symbolic and heartfelt -- or it can feel outdated -- depending on how you frame it. The "modern permission slip" is this: do it in a way that reflects your values, not someone else's expectations.
Cutting the Cake Together
Cake cutting might look like a cute photo op now, but it actually has older roots than most people realise. Historically, sharing food at weddings symbolised prosperity, good fortune, and the couple's commitment to providing for one another. In some traditions, it also marked the first shared task as a married couple -- a tiny, sugar-coated teamwork exercise.
The symbolism is still surprisingly relevant: you're literally sharing something sweet, in front of the people who love you, as a small public sign of unity. It's simple, but it lands emotionally -- especially when it's done without turning into a competitive "who can smash more icing into the other person's face" moment. (Unless that's your love language. No judgement.)
Across regions, the ritual varies. Some couples cut a traditional tiered cake, others slice a smaller "ceremony cake" and serve dessert differently. Some cultures include specific sweets, pastries, or symbolic foods instead of cake entirely. The tradition isn't about sponge -- it's about the shared moment.
Throwing Rice/Confetti
This tradition goes way back, and it's rooted in ancient symbolism: fertility, prosperity, abundance -- the idea of showering the couple with "good things" as they begin married life. Rice was often used because it was a staple food and a strong symbol of nourishment and plenty. The message was basically: may your life together be full, thriving, and never short on dinner.
Modern weddings have kept the idea but changed the materials -- partly for safety, partly for cleanup, and partly because venues have... opinions. Confetti can be messy, rice can be slippery for birds and shoes, and nobody wants their first married moment to be followed by an invoice from the venue coordinator.
So couples swap in modern substitutes: bubbles, petals, dried flowers, biodegradable confetti, ribbon wands -- even lavender or herbs for scent and symbolism. Same joyful send-off, less chaos. And if you're choosing, the best option is the one that's safe, venue-approved, and looks incredible on camera when you walk out glowing like you've just won life.
History of the Wedding Ring
The wedding ring is one of the oldest and most universal wedding symbols, and its meaning is refreshingly straightforward: a circle with no end, representing eternity. Ancient cultures used rings made of braided materials, leather, or metal as a visible sign of commitment and union -- a public marker that two lives were now linked.
Over time, the symbolism deepened. In some traditions, the ring finger was believed to have a direct connection to the heart (romantic idea, questionable anatomy), which helped cement the habit of wearing rings on that hand. The ring became more than jewellery -- it became a daily, wearable promise.
Today, rings still do the same job: they're a constant reminder of commitment, but now with infinite room for personal expression. Some couples choose classic gold bands, others go for modern designs, engravings, heirloom stones, or non-traditional materials. The tradition hasn't disappeared — it's simply evolved into something more personal, which is exactly what the best traditions do.
What all classic wedding traditions have in common is not their form, but their function. They were created to communicate commitment publicly, reassure families, and provide a sense of order during an emotionally charged event. While their original contexts may no longer apply, their symbolic value still resonates.
That's why many couples choose to reinterpret rather than remove these traditions -- keeping the meaning while reshaping the form.
3) Wedding Traditions Around the World
Looking beyond Western ceremonies reveals how universal the idea of ritual truly is. Across cultures, weddings have always used movement, objects, and repetition to express ideas that transcend language -- unity, respect, responsibility, and belonging.
These traditions remind us that while weddings may look different around the world, the emotions behind them are remarkably similar.
Baraat & Varmala (India)
Indian weddings are deeply symbolic and unapologetically joyful. The Baraat is the groom's procession to the ceremony, traditionally involving music, dancing, and vibrant celebration. It sets the tone: this is not a quiet transition -- it's a public declaration of joy.
The Varmala follows, where the couple exchange flower garlands. This simple act symbolises mutual respect and acceptance, reinforcing the idea of partnership rather than hierarchy. Together, these rituals highlight celebration, equality, and shared commitment.
San-san-kudo (Japan)
San-san-kudo is a traditional Shinto ritual involving three cups of sake, each sipped three times by the couple. The repetition and structure reflect balance, harmony, and unity between families.
It's a calm, deliberate tradition -- one that contrasts beautifully with louder celebrations. Its power lies in restraint, reminding us that meaning doesn't require spectacle.
Handfasting (Ireland)
Handfasting is an ancient Celtic wedding tradition where the couple's hands are bound together with cords or ribbons. The phrase "tying the knot" comes directly from this ritual.
In modern ceremonies, handfasting is often adapted with personalised materials, colours, or words. It's tactile, visual, and deeply symbolic -- making it a favourite for couples seeking meaningful rituals without religious structure.
Tea Ceremony (China)
The Chinese tea ceremony is one of the most emotionally layered wedding traditions in the world. At its heart, it's about respect -- not just between the couple, but across generations. During the ceremony, the newlyweds serve tea to their parents and elders as a sign of gratitude for their upbringing, guidance, and support.
In return, elders often offer blessings, advice, and symbolic gifts such as jewellery or red envelopes. This exchange reinforces the idea that marriage is not just about two individuals, but about families coming together.
In modern weddings, the tea ceremony is often adapted to fit contemporary schedules. Some couples hold it privately before the main celebration; others include only immediate family. Even when shortened, the meaning remains powerful -- honouring the past while stepping into the future together.
Maasai Jumping Dance (Kenya)
The Maasai jumping dance, or Adumu, is a striking example of how physical expression becomes symbolic. Traditionally performed by Maasai warriors, the dance involves jumping vertically while maintaining rhythm and composure -- a display of strength, endurance, and readiness.
In a wedding context, the symbolism is clear: marriage requires balance, resilience, and commitment. While most couples won't replicate the dance itself, the message resonates universally. Weddings are public declarations that say, "We are ready for what comes next".
Today, this tradition is often referenced rather than recreated -- reminding couples that celebration doesn't need to be quiet to be meaningful.
Las Arras (Mexico)
Las arras is a tradition rooted in trust and shared responsibility. During the ceremony, the groom presents the bride with thirteen coins, symbolising his commitment to support the household and their life together.
The number thirteen represents abundance -- twelve months of provision, plus one coin for generosity. Modern couples often reinterpret this ritual as a mutual exchange rather than a one-sided promise, reflecting equality and partnership.
Some families pass down heirloom coins; others engrave new ones. Either way, las arras serves as a reminder that love and responsibility walk hand in hand.
Maori Poi Dance (New Zealand)
The poi dance holds a special place in Māori culture, blending rhythm, movement, and storytelling. Traditionally used to develop coordination and express narratives, poi has evolved into a powerful cultural performance. (Read more: Maori wedding traditions)
When included in weddings, poi is less about spectacle and more about honouring heritage. It can be performed as a tribute, a shared moment, or a symbolic gesture recognising connection to land, ancestors, and identity.
For modern couples, especially in Aotearoa, incorporating poi respectfully acknowledges that weddings don't exist in isolation -- they're part of a broader cultural landscape.
4) Unique Superstitions That Bring Good Luck
Wedding superstitions are fascinating because they reveal what people have feared -- and hoped for -- across centuries. Rain is believed to bring fertility and renewal. A broken glass symbolises the fragility of life. Carrying the bride over the threshold was once meant to ward off evil spirits.
Today, these beliefs are often treated playfully. Couples might joke about lucky signs while secretly hoping they still work "just in case".
What makes superstitions endure is not belief, but comfort. They give people a sense of control during emotionally charged moments -- and weddings are nothing if not emotionally charged.
5) Modern Twists on Old Traditions
Modern weddings are where tradition meets intention. Couples are no longer bound by rigid rules -- instead, they curate experiences that feel honest and reflective of who they are.
Walking down the aisle together, writing personal vows, blending cultural rituals, or skipping traditions altogether are now common choices. The question is no longer "What should we do?" but "What feels right?"
This flexibility doesn't weaken tradition -- it strengthens it. When rituals are chosen thoughtfully, they become more meaningful than when followed automatically.
What's especially interesting is how modern couples often create hybrid traditions -- blending cultural rituals, family customs, and personal moments into something entirely new. These combinations reflect real lives, not rulebooks.
By consciously choosing what to include, couples turn tradition into storytelling -- a way of saying, "This is who we are, and this is what matters to us".
6) Why Wedding Traditions Still Matter
In an age of personalised everything, wedding traditions might seem outdated -- yet they persist. Why? Because they connect us to something bigger than a single day.
Traditions offer continuity. They remind us that love, commitment, and celebration have been expressed in countless ways before us. Even when adapted, they anchor weddings emotionally.
You don't need many traditions to create meaning. Sometimes, one well-chosen ritual can say more than a dozen decorative details.
Traditions also give guests a role beyond observation. Whether it's standing, responding, throwing petals, or witnessing vows, rituals invite participation. That shared involvement turns a wedding from a performance into a collective experience.
In a world where so much happens on screens, these moments of shared presence are more valuable than ever.
7) Making Traditions Your Own
Wedding traditions don't exist to lock you into a script -- they exist to give you context, meaning, and perspective. Modern weddings aren't about rejecting tradition altogether, but about reinterpreting it. Couples today choose rituals that align with their values and let go of expectations that no longer feel relevant.
That freedom comes with responsibility, too. When traditions come from specific cultures, understanding their meaning matters. Respectful inclusion isn't about aesthetics -- it's about intention, learning, and honouring where those rituals come from. When done thoughtfully, cultural elements can add depth rather than distraction.
And sometimes, the most meaningful traditions are the ones you create yourselves. Private letters, shared moments before the ceremony, or small rituals known only to the two of you often carry more emotional weight than anything inherited. These personal traditions don't follow history -- they become part of it.
At the end of the day, wedding traditions aren't about doing things "the right way".
They're about understanding why people have celebrated love the way they have -- and deciding what that means for you, here and now.
When traditions are chosen with intention, they stop feeling like rules and start feeling like anchors. They ground the day emotionally and give moments weight beyond logistics or timelines.
And when you look back years from now, it won't be the schedule you remember -- it will be the meaning behind the moments.
If you'd like help capturing those moments -- whether with a wedding photographer, a wedding videographer, or both -- as a story you can return to again and again, we'd love to help.
Get in touch anytime -- we're always happy to talk weddings, traditions, and how to turn them into something timeless.
FAQ
What wedding tradition is most unique?
The most unique wedding traditions are often deeply tied to culture and place. From handfasting in Ireland to tea ceremonies in China or poi performances in New Zealand, what makes a tradition “unique” is not how rare it is, but how meaningfully it reflects a couple’s values and heritage.
What is the traditional gift for a New Zealand wedding?
In New Zealand, there isn’t one fixed traditional wedding gift. Cash contributions, experiences, or practical gifts are most common today, reflecting a relaxed, modern approach rather than strict tradition. The focus is usually on helping the couple start their life together, not following formal rules.
What is a popular tradition in New Zealand?
One of the most popular wedding traditions in New Zealand is incorporating elements that reflect the local landscape or Māori culture, such as karakia (a blessing), waiata (song), or poi. Even when used subtly, these elements add a strong sense of place and meaning to the ceremony.
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 | I’m George, the filmmaker and creative partner behind Red Guy Films — I create cinematic wedding films full of emotion and meaning. I began my career in television and advertising back in 2005, and I’ve been telling real stories ever since. |
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