Wedding Traditions

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Exploring Wedding Traditions From Around The Globe at Ellis Ranch

Nestled in the heart of Loveland, CO, Ellis Ranch is not just a venue; it’s a picturesque backdrop where countless couples have tied the knot, blending their unique stories with timeless wedding traditions. Today, we’re taking you on a journey beyond the scenic views of Ellis Ranch to explore some of the most beautiful wedding traditions from different cultures around the world. These customs bring depth and a celebration of the diverse ways love unites us across cultures, enriching each ceremony with its unique story.

One of the fun things about being able to watch so many wedding traditions throughout the year is the different kinds of cultures each couple chooses to incorporate into their wedding ceremony.

Here are some insights into four different traditions: Unity Candle, Handfasting Ribbons, Sand Unity and Jumping the Broom.

The Hawaiian Sand Ceremony usually is ideal for ceremonies taking place on the beach, boat, or on a windy day.  We see this tradition happen a lot at the ranch since both our ceremony locations are outdoors unless you have a winter wedding.

When choosing the sand ceremony, you are making a commitment to your eternal aloha for one another.  You will need three bottles, one with sand representing the bride, one to serve the groom and an empty bottle.  If you are getting married on the beach, many couples use the sand from the beach and those getting married on the land use colored sand.  During the sand ceremony, the bride and groom pour the sand into the empty jar together, which makes for a beautiful pot when the two colors are combined.

We have also seen where the couple chooses to have the parents or children help in the pouring of color, representing the joining of families.

You may use whatever shape and size of jars, just make sure it comes with a lid so you may preserve our sand for years to come.

Handfasting Ribbon (Neopaganism) is a historical term for “betrothal” or “wedding” The verb as explained in Wikipedia means to handfast is the sense of “to formally promise, to make a contract” recorded for Late Old English.

Handfasting …the blessed marriage rite in which the hands of you and your beloved are wrapped in ribbon as you “tie the knot.”

Jumping the broom is a phrase and custom relating to a wedding ceremony where the couple jumps over a broom.  The tradition is historically associated with Romani gypsy people of the United Kingdom.Wedding traditions jumping couple Ellis Ranch Loveland

Jumping the Broom is also called “broomstick marriage” Some say walking over the broom always indicated an irregular or non-church union, but there are examples of the phrase in the context of legal weddings, both religious and civil.

Using the unity candle during your ceremony symbolizes the joining together of the two families and their love.  The bride and groom use two flames to light the unity candle, this brings the respect of both families together in a united love.

The Indian Varmala Ceremony

One of the most visually captivating wedding traditions is the Indian Varmala ceremony. This tradition involves the exchange of garlands between the bride and groom at the beginning of their wedding ceremony. The Varmala, made of vibrant flowers, symbolizes the acceptance of each other and their families. It’s a beautiful representation of unification and respect, showcasing the importance of nature and fragrance in Indian culture. This colorful exchange could inspire couples at Ellis Ranch to incorporate natural elements and colors into their own ceremonies, creating a visually stunning and meaningful moment.

The Japanese San San Kudo

Another fascinating tradition comes from Japan, known as San San Kudo. This ceremony involves the sharing of sake between the bride, groom, and their families, in a sequence of three sips each from three different cups, totaling nine sips. The numbers three and nine are considered lucky in Japanese culture, and the act symbolizes sealing the bond between the families and pledging unity and allegiance. For couples looking to blend traditional and modern elements, incorporating a San San Kudo-inspired toast at Ellis Ranch could add a unique and elegant touch to their wedding ceremony.

The Symbolic Filipino Coin Ceremony

The Filipino Coin Ceremony, or “Arras,” is a beautiful tradition where the groom presents the bride with 13 coins, often in a decorative box or pouch. These coins represent the groom’s commitment to provide for his family and signify prosperity, fidelity, and the sharing of worldly goods. This tradition is deeply symbolic and reflects the couple’s promises to support each other in all aspects of life. Couples at Ellis Ranch could embrace this tradition by incorporating their version of the coin ceremony, perhaps using local or personalized tokens to signify their commitments to one another.

Wedding traditions from around the world offer a myriad of ways to celebrate love and union. Whether it’s through the vibrant exchange of garlands in the Indian Varmala ceremony, the sharing of sake in the Japanese San San Kudo, the symbolic exchange of coins in the Filipino, the Coin Ceremony, Unity Candle, Handfasting Ribbons, Sand Unity or Jumping the Broom, each tradition carries with it a unique symbolism and deep meaning.

At Ellis Ranch, we encourage couples to explore these wedding traditions and find ways to incorporate them into their special day, making their ceremony not just a union of two people, but a celebration of cultural heritage and shared humanity. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Japanese customs, the vibrant spirit of Indian celebrations, or the symbolic gestures of Filipino vows, let Ellis Ranch be the canvas for your culturally rich and unforgettable wedding day.

Creating Your Own Wedding Traditions

Creating your own wedding traditions can make your special day even more unique and personal. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate your individuality as a couple, blending your backgrounds, interests, and stories into a ceremony that truly reflects who you are. Whether you’re inspired by your heritage, shared passions, or collective journey, establishing your own tradition can add a deeply meaningful layer to your wedding.

Brainstorming Your Own Traditions

Start by reflecting on what matters most to you both. Are there elements from your cultural backgrounds that you can weave together in a new way? Maybe there’s a hobby or interest that plays a significant role in your relationship, such as literature, art, or travel. Use these as a foundation to brainstorm wedding traditions that are genuinely yours. 

Involving Family and Friends

Wedding traditions are even more enriching when they involve your loved ones. Consider traditions that can include family and friends, such as a communal art project where each guest contributes a piece, creating a tapestry of your community’s love and support. Or, you might have a special recipe that gets passed down and included in your wedding menu. 

Ensuring Meaningfulness and Memorability

The key to creating a lasting tradition is to ensure it holds deep significance for you both. Your tradition should be something that you can see yourselves happily passing down or repeating on anniversaries. Document the creation and execution of your tradition through photos or videos, so you can revisit and maybe even share this custom with future generations.

By introducing your own wedding traditions, you’re not just planning a ceremony; you’re crafting an experience that celebrates your unique love story. Whether it’s a blend of cultural rituals, a nod to shared interests, or a completely new concept born from your journey together, your custom tradition will stand as a testament to your bond, making your wedding truly unforgettable.

There are so many traditional ceremonies one can choose from, or you make a new wedding tradition. What is your style? Be sure and check with your officiant to see what he recommends along with your religious beliefs.

Our business is family-owned and operated and has been a premiere wedding and event destination spot since 1963.  We would love to show you around! To schedule a tour or request information, please contact us. You can also give us a call at 970-593-9570. Ellis Ranch Wedding and Event Center is conveniently located at 2331 Ellis Ranch Lane, Loveland, CO 80538. We are one hour north of Denver and one hour south of Southern Wyoming. We are also one of the most affordable wedding venues in Colorado.