Rhiannon Hendricks
Mexican weddings are steeped in tradition and rituals, with a combination of Catholic elements and all-night fiestas. The length of a Mexican wedding depends on the number of rituals and ceremonies the couple chooses to include, but they are often long, joyful, and festive affairs. The guest list is usually large, with over 150 people, and the celebrations include dynamic and showy Mexican rituals, music, and traditional Mexican meals.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Religion | Catholic |
| Wedding attire | Wedding dress, mantilla, suit |
| Wedding sponsors | Padrinos and Madrinas |
| Wedding lasso | El lazo |
| Wedding coins | Las arras matrimoniales |
| Food | Tamales, tacos, carnitas, enchiladas, chiles rellenos, spicy stews, spicy rice, salsa, mole blanco, Mexican wedding cookies, elaborate wedding cakes |
| Drinks | Local beers, tequilas, margaritas, agua fresca |
| Music | Mariachi bands |
| Parade | Wedding parade through town |
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What You'll Learn
Catholic mass and rituals
Mexican weddings are deeply rooted in Catholic faith and rituals. The majority of Mexican citizens are Catholic, so it is common for weddings to be held in a church and include a full Catholic mass. The mass typically lasts over an hour and is a sacred and holy service. It may be spoken entirely in Spanish, depending on the couple and their families.
The church is considered the house of God, so it is important for Catholics to perform the holy sacrament of marriage in the church. The rite of marriage is not just between two individuals but also God's presence, and the church is seen as a holy place to perform this sacrament. The mass includes sacred rituals like communion, hymns, and religious songs.
A unique aspect of Mexican weddings is the inclusion of padrinos and madrinas, who are like godparents to the couple. These special friends or family members are chosen by the couple to embody the values of love, faith, and commitment that the soon-to-be newlyweds aspire to. They play a significant role in the wedding by offering financial support, giving readings during the mass, and presenting the couple with el lazo, or the lasso. This unity ceremony, performed after the couple exchanges vows, symbolises the couple becoming one in God's eyes. The lasso, which can be an oversized rosary or a silk cord, is placed over the couple's shoulders in a figure-eight shape, representing a new beginning.
Another ritual during the mass is the offering of flowers to the Virgin Mary. The couple takes a moment to walk up to an altar or a statue of Mary and offer a bouquet of flowers, humbly requesting her blessings on their journey together.
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Wedding sponsors and mentors
Mexican weddings are known for their elaborate and fun reception traditions, from dancing to food and meticulous ceremonies. One unique aspect of Mexican weddings is the inclusion of wedding sponsors and mentors, known as "padrinos" and "madrinas". These individuals are like godparents and play a significant role in supporting and guiding the couple through their engagement and marriage. They are often married couples themselves who have watched the bride or groom grow up, such as cousins, aunts, uncles, or best friends. It is considered an honour to be chosen as a "padrino" or "madrina".
The role of these wedding sponsors is not just ceremonial; they also provide financial support for the wedding costs. This can include paying for the engagement party or specific items needed for the ceremony, such as the arras (coins), lazo (wedding lasso), or rings. In some cases, they may even help cover the costs of the lavish celebrations that typically follow Mexican weddings. The wedding lasso, for example, is an important symbol of unity in Mexican weddings, where the madrinas and padrinos place the lasso over the couple's shoulders in a figure-eight shape to symbolise a new beginning.
Mentors, on the other hand, are role models who are successfully married and admired by the couple. They may be chosen by the couple or may volunteer their gifts and support. The presence of mentors and sponsors at a Mexican wedding reflects the importance of family and community in Mexican culture, providing guidance and support to the newlywed couple as they begin their married life together.
In addition to the financial contributions made by the padrinos and madrinas, Mexican weddings often feature another unique tradition known as "la tornaboda". This is an intimate gathering that takes place after the main wedding event, where the couple gets to spend time with their closest family and friends. It is a chance to wind down or continue the celebration in a more relaxed setting, often including more dancing, food, and drinks.
Overall, the inclusion of wedding sponsors and mentors in Mexican weddings adds a layer of cultural significance and community involvement to the celebration, creating unforgettable memories for the couple and their loved ones.
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Food and drink
Mexican weddings are known for their delicious food and drinks, which are considered a high priority. The food served often includes traditional Mexican dishes and drinks, with a focus on fresh, vibrant flavours.
Food
To start, guests might be served classic Mexican appetisers like mini tostadas, guacamole with handmade totopos (tortilla chips), or shrimp ceviche. Another fun choice is esquites (Mexican corn) served in small cups, bringing the flavours of Mexico's popular street food to the wedding.
For the main course, meat dishes are common, such as chicken, pork, or beef, served with warm, fresh tortillas. Side dishes often include enchiladas, beans, tortillas, and spicy rice enhanced with peppers, tomatoes, and cilantro. In the Huasteca area of Mexico, a unique dish called Zachuilis is cooked—an enormous tamale prepared overnight in a hole and then shared among the wedding party and guests.
Other popular main course options include chiles rellenos, spicy stews, and tacos with a variety of fillings, such as Cochinita Pibil (slow-cooked pork with citrus and achiote) or Carne Asada (grilled beef with fresh salsas). A vegetarian option could be Rajas con Crema (roasted poblano peppers with cream).
A soup course is another option, with choices like Pozole (a hominy-based soup with chicken or pork, topped with cabbage, radishes, and lime) or Tortilla Soup (a tomato-chile broth with fried tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese).
The dessert table is often the centrepiece of the reception's décor. It might include a wedding cake soaked in rum and made with nuts and dried fruit, cookies (such as Mexican wedding cookies, which are pecan or almond cookies rolled in sugar), and candies.
Drinks
A variety of drinks are served at Mexican weddings, including alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic refreshments. Tequila, rum, whiskey, vodka, beer, and a traditional local spirit called posh (a strong spirit brewed from cane) are commonly served. Sangria and margaritas are also popular choices.
Non-alcoholic drinks include fresh fruit waters and traditional juices such as horchata, tamarindo, chilacayota, and Jamaica. In the region of Oaxaca, hot chocolate may be served at weddings, prepared with water and served with pan de yema (bread).
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Music and dancing
During the wedding ceremony, romantic Spanish love songs and classic Mexican music are often played to create a traditional and elegant ambiance. Artists like Luis Miguel, with his smooth voice and emotional ballads, are popular choices for this part of the wedding. As the ceremony progresses, the music may shift to include more upbeat and lively Latin dance songs, signalling the transition to the reception and inviting guests to celebrate.
At the reception, the music and dancing truly come alive. A well-curated wedding playlist includes a mix of classic songs, popular Spanish love songs, and energetic Latin dance tracks. These songs encourage guests of all ages to take to the dance floor and are perfect for creating a party atmosphere. The vibrant and joyful nature of Latin music, with its upbeat tempos and infectious melodies, ensures that the celebration continues well into the night.
Traditional Mexican music, such as mariachi, is also incorporated throughout the event, adding a touch of authenticity and cultural heritage to the festivities. Religious hymns and songs, commonly heard during mass, may also make an appearance, blending the sacred and the celebratory.
Some unique Mexican wedding traditions also involve music and dancing. For example, "Lanzar el Ramo," or the bouquet toss, includes dancing around the bride as she teases her girlfriends with the bouquet before tossing it. Similarly, "Tirar la Liga," the garter toss, involves the groom being surrounded by his single male family and friends, who dance and mess around with him on the dance floor in a playful manner. These traditions add a fun and interactive element to the festivities.
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Wedding attire
Mexican weddings are known for their lively atmosphere, colourful decorations, and a blend of modern and traditional elements. The dress code often depends on the type of wedding and the location. They can range from casual beach ceremonies to formal, black-tie events. It is important to dress respectfully, and also to consider the venue, season, and local customs.
For women, a formal gown or an elegant cocktail dress is usually suitable. Sophisticated colours like deep jewel tones or classic black are a good choice. High heels and statement jewellery can add a touch of glamour. However, if you plan to dance the night away, bringing a change of shoes is a good idea.
For men, a dark, well-tailored suit with a tie or bow tie is generally a safe choice. A sleek, polished look can be achieved with cufflinks and a pocket square, and black leather shoes are a classic option.
When it comes to colours, embracing the local flair by choosing vibrant hues like turquoise, coral, green, or deep shades of blue is a great way to reflect the festive spirit of Mexico. Lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen are recommended to stay comfortable in the warm and humid climate, especially in coastal areas.
It is important to avoid dressing too casually, even for beach weddings. Jeans, shorts, or flip-flops may be considered too casual. Also, it is generally best to avoid wearing white, as it is often reserved for the bride.
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Frequently asked questions
Mexican weddings are steeped in tradition and rituals, and they can be long events. The ceremony itself, if held in a Catholic church, will include a full mass and communion, which can last about an hour. The reception is then followed by an all-night fiesta or party.
Mexican weddings are a combination of Catholic rituals and local traditions. One such tradition is the wedding parade or La Callejoneada, which takes place after the wedding ceremony. It is a procession with mariachi music, dancing, and singing, that takes guests from the ceremony to the reception.
There are several unique Mexican wedding rituals. One is the presentation of a bouquet to the Virgin Mary, where the couple asks for her blessing. Another is the wedding lasso ritual, where a lasso or rosary is draped around the couple to symbolise their unity.
