Brazilian wedding traditions
Brazilian weddings are rich in tradition and culture. They are usually very expensive and the parents of the bride usually pay for the wedding, but that is becoming less common due to the total cost. Brazil is a Christian nation and therefore has several customs similar to other Christian regions; however, there are some traditions that are different.
Wedding rings
Unlike in the US, engagement rings are not as important and instead the couple exchanges wedding rings. The rings are placed on the right hand and then switched to the left hand during the wedding ceremony. It is customary for the bride and groom to write their names on the ring. It is considered bad luck to drop the ring during the ring exchange and is told that the marriage would not last if it were to happen.
kitchen shower
Unlike a typical bachelorette party that takes place in other countries, in Brazil they do what is called a Kitchen Shower. It used to be a small gathering of close friends of the bride to catch up and give her gifts that the bride will use for her kitchen. However, the gatherings have been getting bigger and not even men can join.
Wedding party
A Brazilian bride can wear any color of dress she wants, but white is a tradition. However, it is customary to wear gold shoes. It is considered bad luck for bridesmaids to match; therefore, two people cannot wear the same color. Unlike the US and other European countries that choose her godparent months in advance, in Brazil, the groom could wait until the last hour before choosing his own. The wedding party is often three couples who are very close to the bride and groom, however they do not have to be in a relationship together.
Before the Ceremony
It is tradition that the day before the wedding the Brazilian bride and her family go to a spa to take a break. There they can receive a message, as well as get their hair done, combed and put on makeup before the big day. However, when the wedding is actually there, it is a tradition for the bride to be at least 10 minutes late, as this is considered good luck. There are times when the groom and the other guests have to wait a few hours before the bride finally shows up for her big day.
wedding ceremony
The wedding ceremony is performed like most Christian weddings. However, some differences are that the bride has two florists accompanying her, one who delivers the flowers and the other who is more of a ring bearer. The bride and groom will then recite their vows and then switch their rings from their right hand to their left hand to symbolize the change from betrothed to married. Most wedding ceremonies can last up to an hour, but other times it can last even longer.
wedding reception
The wedding reception is a big party where the guests and the newlywed couple drink, dance and give speeches. One tradition is for the couple to exchange gifts to their parents. Often the bride takes off her shoes and places them in the middle of the dance floor. As the guests dance, they will deposit money into the shoes to help support the financial future of the newlyweds. Instead of a wedding favor, it is customary to give a Brazilian sweet, bem casado (meaning “well married”), to your guests as they leave.
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