Brazilian weddings are rich in tradition and culture. They are often very expensive and the parents of the bride often pay for the wedding, but that is becoming less common due to the sheer 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 changed 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 he is told that the marriage would not last if it happened.
kitchen shower
Unlike a typical bachelorette party that is done in other countries, in Brazil there is 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 meetings have been getting bigger and not even men can join.
Wedding party
A Brazilian bride can wear any color dress she wants, but white is a tradition. However, it is customary to wear golden shoes. It is considered bad luck for the bridesmaids to coincide; therefore, two people cannot wear the same color. Unlike the US and other European countries that choose her groomsmen months in advance, in Brazil, the groom could wait until the last hour before choosing his. 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 a 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 do their hair, hair and 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 it is considered good luck. There are times when the groom and the rest of the 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 engaged to married. Most wedding ceremonies can last up to an hour, but at other times it can last even longer.
wedding reception
The wedding reception is one 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 will remove her shoes and place them in the middle of the dance floor. As guests dance, they will deposit money into the shoes to help support the financial future of the newlyweds. In lieu of a wedding favor, it is customary to give a Brazilian sweet, bem casado (meaning “well married”), to your guests when they leave.
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