December 11, 2020
Felicitaciones! Regardless of the world circumstances, you have every right to be excited about tying the knot with your life partner. There are many traditions you are excited to incorporate into your Latin American wedding ceremony, and in spite of having to adapt a few things due to the restrictions, there are certain traditions practiced for centuries which are still possible.
Many Latin American weddings continue to adapt traditions to include as many family members as possible, while being socially responsible. After all, tight-knit families are a cornerstone of the culture, and it wouldn’t be the same without family in attendance.
While there may be some adaptations to ensure the most cherished customs are safe for the participants, you can do the same by modifying and adapting wedding traditions so that they are doable with smaller attendances.
The venue is the cornerstone of any wedding, and a Latin American wedding is no different.
Whether you decide on a Latin American wedding venue, a chapel, or a historical site that has Latin-American significance, make sure it fits the aesthetic you’re looking for in pictures, and that there is enough space for your guests to socially distance.
A lasso is a symbol of unity. By joining the couple together in unison, the tradition represents the fact that you and your significant other are going to be tied by love forever. Typically, the ceremony is completed using a rosary lasso by either the grandparents, or those who are close to the couple.
However, one way to get around the wedding restrictions is to ask loved ones from within your close circle to take on the responsibility of binding you in a symbolic figure eight. As well as a rosary, you can literally tie the knot with a white rope or silk cord.
Coins, or arras, are often presented by the groom in Spain, and Central American countries to show that he can provide and take care of the bride. Once blessed by the priest, they are passed throughout the congregation, then to the newlyweds. Of course, with recent events, it is wiser for only the bride and groom to handle the 13 coins, or for them to be passed from a grandparent to the couple.
It’s time to celebrate after the ceremony, and nothing better to get it started than with the right drinks. For drinks, there are a plethora of Latin-based options to keep your party going into the late hours, from a Cuba libre, to sangria punch, and amber beers.
With the choices of red and white wine from Chile or Argentina, or exotic sodas from Mexico for minors, and anyone who wants a nonalcoholic beverage. Just ask the venue to place markers for where guests can stand to stay socially distanced.
Latin American weddings often have dinners, with finger food for snacking throughout the evening and early morning. Not only are empanadas and tacos traditional, but they are perfect for weddings during COVID-19 as they are small and easy to handle with the right utensils. Don’t forget churros for dessert!
After every great Latin American wedding comes the after party. With this you will want to make sure you have space for everyone to dance with their own party, and enforce that everyone wears masks, but encourage them to enjoy themselves through great lights, and music from everyone’s favorite artists that makes it irresistible to dance!
Pre-wedding, a Mariachi band is perfectly acceptable. If it’s nice weather, you can have them play outside as people walk into the venue. Alternatively, you can replicate a Mariachi band with a speaker system. The genre you choose after the ceremony is up to you, and you’re not short of options!
By keeping your favorite traditions, you can still celebrate with your favorite traditions and keep your guests safe and comfortable, your big day will go without a hitch. Just because you need to adapt a few traditions doesn’t mean you can’t have an incredible time.