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No matter what part of the world you are in, weddings are a monumental and joyous occasion as they celebrate the union of two people, their hearts, souls, even families into one. While all the occasions are full of wonder and amazement, there are several differences in the customs and traditions we see all over the world.

Asian Traditions

In China, the traditional wedding gown is bright red in color as this symbolizes luck for the new couple. The bridal gowns are often embellished with things such as chrysanthemums and peonies as these symbolize wealth and good fortune. The groom typically wears a long black coat with a dragon on it. Fireworks are displayed that make loud noises, to ward away evil spirits and energies.

In Japan, the bride wears a purple kimono as purple is the color of love. It is typically very elaborate and features many purple iris flowers. On her wedding day, she is painted white, all over her body, to show the Gods her status as a maiden.

In Indonesia, the reception may have 1,000 guests or more, which all must be personally greeted by the bride and groom before the festivals can start.

South American Traditions

In Argentina, the groom's mother and the bride's father walk them down the aisle and stay with them through the ceremony in place of the traditional Maid of Honor and Best Man. The vows are replaced at engagement, rather than during the wedding.

In Chile, rings are exchanged at engagement. The couple wears them on their right hands until the vows are replaced in the wedding ceremony, at which point the rings are switched over to the left hand.

In Venezuela, the groom must ask for permission from the bride's father before he can propose. Two weeks before the religious ceremony takes place, a civil ceremony happens where the couple is officially married. Although there is a reception for both, the reception is larger for the religious ceremony.

North American Traditions

In parts of Canada, the groom and all his close friends and family members will meet the bride at her home. Then, together they will travel to the Church in a procession of vehicles with the bride's parents. Some vehicles may be decorated in celebration of the wedding, and some guests may honk horns and yell out the window.

In the United States, it is customary to send invitations to the guests some months before the wedding ceremony takes place. These invitations are usually hand crafted and ornate, such as letterpress invitations. The guests respond to the invitations which then allows the bride and groom to appropriate plan for the number of guests in attendance.

In Mexico, engaged couples get sponsored. Traditionally, the couple's godparents act as "padrinos" or sponsors of the wedding. They serve as mentors to the bride and groom through the engagement, and through the course of the marriage. The padrinos are honored with a special place in the wedding program. They may offer the couple a Rosary and Bible during the wedding.

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Source by Betsy Kline