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The day and after · First dance and traditions

What are some unique wedding traditions around the world?

Answered by the UK Wedding Websites editorial team · Updated 2026-10-12 · For guests

Short answer

Unique traditions include the Scottish quaich cup for sharing a drink, the Irish handfasting ribbon, the Greek crown and sugar almonds, the Indian henna and garlands, and the Japanese sake sharing. Each symbolises unity, luck, or family blessing.

Around the world, weddings are rich with symbolic customs. In Scotland, couples often share a quaich, a two-handled cup, to show trust and unity. In Ireland, handfasting involves tying the couple's hands with ribbon, which is where the phrase “tying the knot” comes from. Greek weddings include the crowning of the couple with delicate crowns and the sharing of sugar almonds for sweetness. Indian weddings often feature henna on the bride's hands, exchange of flower garlands, and the circling of a sacred fire. Japanese couples may share sake in a ritual called san-san-kudo, involving three cups each, to honour their families. In Poland, guests often throw coins for the couple to collect as a symbol of prosperity. In Mexico, a lasso is placed around the couple's shoulders to represent their bond. In Germany, couples may saw a log together to show teamwork. In Italy, guests throw confetti, which are sugared almonds, and the couple may break a glass for luck. These traditions are meaningful because they connect the couple to their heritage and community. If you are planning a multicultural wedding, you can blend customs from both families, but always ask relatives for guidance so you honour them correctly. Remember that some traditions have religious or cultural significance, so approach them with respect. For legal aspects, your ceremony must meet UK requirements, but you can add cultural elements around it.

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