Mexican Weddings: Bridesmaids Or Not?

Mexican weddings are a vibrant blend of ancient Mayan and Aztec rituals, Spanish customs, and modern trends. They are known for being a grand affair, with a strong emphasis on family, food, music, and fun. In terms of bridal parties, Mexican weddings typically include bridesmaids and groomsmen, who are often paired together and act as sponsors or mentors during the ceremony. These couples are usually close friends or relatives of the bride and groom and are chosen for their wisdom and ability to guide the newlyweds through their married life. They play a crucial role in the wedding preparations and rituals, including presenting gifts to the couple and participating in various ceremonies. The bridesmaids' dresses are traditionally matching in colour and style to the groomsmen's ties or cummerbunds, creating a cohesive and festive look for the bridal party. So, while Mexican weddings may have certain unique traditions and rituals, the inclusion of bridesmaids is definitely part of their special day.

Bridesmaids' dresses and groomsmen attire

Mexican weddings are a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage, combining indigenous traditions with Spanish, Christian, and European influences. When it comes to bridesmaids' dresses and groomsmen attire, there are several unique aspects that reflect the rich culture and customs of Mexico.

Bridesmaids' Dresses:

In traditional Mexican weddings, bridesmaids' dresses are typically chosen to match the colour scheme of the wedding, which is often vibrant and colourful. The dresses usually feature elaborate details such as intricate stitches, flounces, off-the-shoulder sleeves, and full skirts. These dresses are often paired with beautiful shawls or wraps, adding a touch of elegance to the overall look.

Groomsmen Attire:

For the groomsmen, the attire typically includes a stylish Mexican wedding jacket, known as a "charro" jacket. These jackets are usually dark navy or black, adorned with radiant gold and silver embroidery along the sides and cuffs, creating a luxurious and distinctive appearance. Groomsmen often pair these jackets with tailored trousers and a crisp white shirt, completing the ensemble with a wide-brimmed hat for a touch of class and originality.

Matching Colours:

In traditional Mexican weddings, it is customary for the bridesmaids' dresses and groomsmen attire to feature matching colours. The groomsmen's ties or cummerbunds are coordinated with the dresses of the bridesmaids, creating a cohesive and stylish look for the wedding party. This colour coordination extends to the ring bearers and flower girls, who usually dress to match either the bride and groom or the bridesmaids and groomsmen.

Accessories:

Mexican weddings are a perfect opportunity for guests to showcase their accessories. For women, statement jewellery, striking earrings, or vivid necklaces can enhance their ensemble. Men can also spice up their look with accessories like pocket squares, bold ties, or even a wide-brimmed sombrero for a truly Mexican flair.

Comfortable Footwear:

With Mexican weddings being full of dancing and celebration, comfortable footwear is a must. For women, sandals, ballet flats, or wedge heels provide both style and comfort. Men can opt for soft loafers or low-heeled dress shoes to ensure they can comfortably dance the night away.

Padrinos and Madrinas

The couple can choose as many Padrinos and Madrinas as they want, and they usually act as mentors to the couple before and after the wedding. They also sponsor portions of the wedding, such as purchasing the Bible, the wedding rings, or other elements of the ceremony. They may also give readings during the mass and host the bridal party. There are no defined roles and responsibilities for Padrinos and Madrinas, but they often represent the ideal example of love, faith, and devotion that the couple wants to emulate in their marriage.

La Pedida

During La Pedida, the groom's family may bring gifts for the bride's family. This tradition reflects the importance of family and cultural values in Mexican weddings. It is also an opportunity for the families to discuss the wedding plans and any expectations they may have.

In addition to La Pedida, Mexican weddings often include other unique traditions such as the exchange of las arras matrimoniales (wedding coins) and el lazo (wedding lasso), which symbolize the couple's commitment and unity. The wedding is usually a large family affair with traditional ceremonies, cuisine, and dances.

Wedding attire

Bride

The bride's dress was traditionally sewn by her family at the groom's expense and would often include imagery elements of good luck, prosperity, and fertility. In modern times, the wedding dress is tailor-made to the bride's preferences, inspired by bridal magazines.

If the wedding is held in a Catholic church, the bride must wear a bolero jacket or bridal shawl to cover her bare shoulders and a veil to cover her head.

Groom

The groom traditionally wears a Mexican shirt, known as a guayabera, and black or linen pants. The guayabera is a lightweight shirt made of linen with four small patch pockets and two rows of vertical, fine pleats. However, many grooms opt for a formal suit or tuxedo.

Bridal Party

In a traditional Mexican wedding, the bridesmaids and groomsmen wear matching colours. The bridesmaids' dresses are to match the tie or cummerbund worn by the groomsmen. The ring bearers and flower girls usually dress to match the bride and groom or the bridesmaids and groomsmen.

Las Arras Matrimoniales

The 13 coins carry multiple meanings. 12 of the coins represent Jesus' 12 apostles and the importance of putting God first in their marriage. They also represent the 12 months of the year and prosperity for the newlyweds as they combine their finances. The last coin symbolizes overabundance and reminds the couple to give back to those less fortunate.

The coins are usually housed in an ornate gold box, chest, or velvet drawstring bag. The presentation of the coins can occur at any time during the Catholic wedding ceremony but is typically performed after the blessing and exchange of rings. The groom says a version of the words, "all that I have is yours, and all that you have is mine," and the bride's acceptance symbolises her promise to care for their wealth and spend it wisely.

After the wedding, couples may choose to display Las Arras Matrimoniales in a prominent place in their home, along with other sentimental items from their wedding day, such as the Bible used during the mass.

Frequently asked questions