Mexico has always been a hot spot for Destination Weddings and Honeymoons alike. Mexico offers gorgeous beach-front properties and a romantic setting for a wedding or post-wedding celebration, but it also offers a rich culture that we can’t overlook. With Cinco De Mayo coming up on Saturday, we wanted to share some Mexican Wedding Customs with you!
Family
The bride and grooms family play a large role in Mexican wedding ceremonies. The couple’s sponsors/Godparents are an important part of the ceremony. They often present the couple with gifts, prayers and rosaries during the ceremony.
The “Lazo”
The Lazo is similar to a cord that can be made from ribbon and decorated with pearls, precious stones, crystals and flowers. During the ceremony it is placed around the couple’s neck in a figure 8 to symbolically join the couple. This takes place after they exchange vows, this part of the ceremony can also be called the Lace Unity. A close family member or friend is responsible for executing this part of the ceremony. Tradition requires the couple to wear the Lazo for the remainder of the ceremony.
Padrinos:
The couple chooses “mentors” who have played an important role in each of their lives. In traditional Mexican culture, the Padrinos even pay for a portion of the wedding celebration.
Food and Dessert:
Food choices for a Mexican wedding can be similar to an American Wedding, but many times include Mexican staples such as fresh rice dishes, beans and tortillas. In the Huasteca region a large Tamale called Zacahuilis is cooked overnight. It is made of corn powder, butter, peppers and ground pork.
Many traditional wedding cakes are often include fruits soaked in rum. Other popular options include tres leches and Pastel de Almendra (almond cakes)
Drink:
In some regions it is popular to start the banquet/reception by receiving a large bowl of hot chocolate and a large pieces of bread called pan yolk. Some local spirits include Mezxal, Xcanbentun, Bacanora, Posh and of course Tequila!