Creating A Wedding Lasso: Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners

The wedding lasso ceremony is a unity ritual that symbolises the bond between two people. It is a beautiful tradition that originates from Hispanic and Filipino cultures. The lasso is placed over the couple's shoulders to symbolise their everlasting union and status as one in the eyes of God. The lasso is usually made of rosary beads, a decorative cord, or flowers, and is placed in a figure-eight shape to signify their infinite love. In this article, we will discuss how to make a wedding lasso and the different ways to incorporate this ritual into your wedding ceremony.

Choosing the materials: beads, flowers, pearls, crystals, or ribbon

The wedding lasso is a symbol of unity, love, and commitment, and you can make it using various materials, including beads, flowers, pearls, crystals, or ribbon. The lasso is usually placed over the couple's shoulders, forming an infinity symbol or an "8", which represents new beginnings and everlasting love. Here are some things to consider when choosing the materials for your wedding lasso:

Beads:

Beads, such as crystal or pearl beads, are commonly used in wedding lassos. They can add a decorative and elegant touch to the lasso. You can string the beads onto a cord or wire to create a beautiful pattern or design.

Flowers:

Flowers are a popular choice for wedding lassos, especially for those who want a more natural and rustic look. Fresh flowers can be used to create a floral garland, or you can use fabric or silk flowers for a more durable option.

Pearls:

Pearls add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the wedding lasso. They can be combined with crystals or beads to create a luxurious and timeless design. Pearls also symbolise purity and new beginnings, making them a perfect choice for a wedding.

Crystals:

Crystals, such as rhinestones or glass crystals, can add sparkle and glamour to your wedding lasso. They can be clear or coloured, depending on your preference. Crystals also symbolise positivity and harmony, making them a meaningful addition to the lasso.

Ribbon:

Ribbon is a versatile material that can be used to create a simple or ornate wedding lasso. You can choose a ribbon in your wedding colours or a symbolic colour that holds special meaning for you. Ribbon lassos are often braided or intertwined to create a unique design.

When choosing the materials for your wedding lasso, consider the overall theme and colour scheme of your wedding, as well as any cultural or personal traditions you want to incorporate. You can also mix and match different materials to create a unique and personalised lasso that reflects your style and values.

Making the shape: figure-eight or infinity symbol

The wedding lasso is placed over the couple in a figure-eight formation, resembling an infinity symbol. This is a nod to the infinite nature of their bond and their everlasting union. The lasso is usually made of rosary beads, crystals, or a decorative cord, and is placed around the couple's shoulders.

The figure-eight shape is a representation of new beginnings, with the infinite loop symbolising the couple's eternal love and unbreakable bond. The wedding lasso is often made with intricate designs and vibrant colours, adding a pop of tradition and culture to the ceremony.

The lasso is placed over the couple by either the officiant or the godparents (los padrinos). In Catholic weddings, the lasso ceremony takes place during the Nuptial Blessing, which follows the exchange of vows and rings. The lasso remains draped around the couple until the end of the ceremony, when it is removed by the officiant or godparents.

The lasso is typically 54 inches in length, with each loop measuring approximately 24 inches. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and longer or shorter lengths can be used as needed. The lasso can be made from a variety of materials, including flowers, beads, pearls, crystals, ribbons, and fabric. It can be as simple or elaborate as desired and can incorporate colours with special meanings.

Timing: after vows and ring exchange

The wedding lasso ceremony is a unity ritual traditionally included in Latino, Hispanic, and Filipino Catholic wedding ceremonies. The lasso is placed over the couple's shoulders after they exchange their vows and rings, while they are still kneeling at the altar. The lasso is usually placed by the couple's godparents, or by the priest.

The lasso is placed in a figure-eight formation, which represents the infinite nature of the couple's bond. The lasso is typically an oversized rosary, with two loops to form the eternity symbol, but can also be a silk cord or flower garland. The loops are joined in the middle by a crucifix.

After the lasso is placed, the priest, deacon, or ordained minister will deliver a prayer or blessing. In a Catholic wedding, this is the Nuptial Prayer, but other options include a meaningful reading, a passage from a favourite book, or a song lyric. The lasso remains draped over the couple until the end of the ceremony, when it is removed by the officiant, godparents, or friends.

The lasso is then kept by the couple as a memento, often displayed in their home. It can be used as a reminder of their wedding day, their commitment to each other, and their relationship with God.

Who performs it: godparents, officiant, or friends

The wedding lasso ceremony is a unity ritual traditionally included in Latino, Hispanic, and Filipino Catholic wedding ceremonies. The lasso is placed over the couple's shoulders by either the officiant or the couple's godparents, symbolising their everlasting union and their new status as one in the eyes of God.

In Catholic weddings, the lasso ceremony takes place during the Nuptial Blessing, which follows the exchange of vows and rings. The priest, or a deacon or ordained minister, then prays for the newlyweds, asking God to bless their union with health, faithfulness, children, strength, and love as they become "one flesh" in marriage.

In more informal or non-religious ceremonies, close friends can also place the lasso over the couple. In traditional Catholic Latino and Filipino weddings, two wedding sponsors, or chosen friends, place the lasso around the couple's shoulders. Superstition says that when the lasso is placed over a couple's shoulders by happily married friends, it blesses the marriage with stability and longevity.

The couple's godparents, or wedding sponsors, are usually a happily married couple who the newlyweds see as an example of a successful relationship. They are also generally responsible for providing the lasso as a wedding gift.

Blessings and prayers: Nuptial Prayer, rosary, or personalised reading

The lasso ceremony is a unity ritual traditionally included in Latino wedding ceremonies. It is steeped in ancient Catholic faith but is also practised by non-religious couples because of its symbolism.

The wedding lasso ceremony is often accompanied by a prayer, blessing, or special reading. Here are some examples of blessings and prayers that can be included in the lasso ceremony:

Nuptial Prayer

> Heavenly Father, we gather here today in the beauty of Your creation and the warmth of Your love to celebrate the union of [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name] in holy matrimony. We are grateful for the paths that have led them to each other and for the journey that unfolds before them.

>

> Bless this joyous day, O Lord, with Your presence and Your peace. As [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name] exchange their vows and share their rings, let their hearts be united in Your divine love. May their love for each other be a reflection of Your grace and a source of strength as they walk together through life.

>

> Guide them with wisdom, protect them with Your strength, and bless them with a deep and abiding joy. May their home be a haven of blessing and a place of peace. As we witness their vows today, inspire us all to love more deeply, cherish more fondly, and live more intentionally in Your light.

>

> We ask all this in the name of Jesus, who taught us the meaning of love. Amen.

Rosary Prayer

> Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Hail Mary, full of grace.

Personalised Reading

> Dear God, bless this beautiful day that starts the married life of [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name]. Surround them with love from family and friends, and with Your love that never ends. May they cherish each other and grow together, and may their life be filled with richness and joy. Thank you for bringing them to each other and for guiding them to this moment. May their love always be as radiant as it is today. Amen.

Frequently asked questions