A Classic Canadian Wedding
Can you name a Canadian wedding tradition off top of your head? Over the years, countless wedding traditions have come and gone. One of the biggest challenges you may face while planning your nuptials is knowing which practices to include. For many couples, incorporating local or historical rituals can be a perfect way to feel connected to your heritage. Take a moment to review these classic Canadian wedding traditions and see which might be a perfect fit for your upcoming celebrations.
Taking Time for Tea
If you’re planning on having a smaller guest list for your wedding, you may be looking for a way to include friends and associates who didn’t make the cut. One option to consider is the tradition of hosting a trousseau tea gathering. Essentially, this is a small party held a few days before the wedding where neighbors, coworkers, and anyone not invited to the official event can come together to celebrate the couple. Instead of serving a full meal, guests are treated to tea, baked goods, and other small snacks. This is a lovely way to make everyone feel included.
Dancing in Silly Socks
In Ontario, one French-Canadian ritual that has remained consistently popular at weddings over the years is the sock dance. Originally, this tradition involved the unwed older siblings of the bride and groom. During the reception, the brothers and sisters would take to the dance floor and don silly knee-high socks. The siblings would then dance for the guests, who would throw money at their feet. The siblings would then collect the money and deliver it to the happy couple. Nowadays, it is common for both married and unwed siblings to take part in this fun and entertaining tradition.
Creating a Convoy
Another French-Canadian tradition to consider for your big day is the wedding train. On the morning of the wedding, the family members and close friends of the couple gather together and create a convoy of cars. The group then drives their vehicles around the neighborhood where the couple is getting ready and makes as much noise as possible by honking their horns and shouting out the windows. The idea is to create an air of celebration to let everyone know that the wedding day has arrived. The noisy convoy will then travel from the neighborhood to the wedding venue.
Raising Funds
Throwing a wedding can easily cost a small fortune. One way that Canadian couples handle their event expenses is by hosting a fundraising social. This classic tradition is often referred to as a stag and doe party and is a way for the couple to raise money for their nuptials. Guests will purchase tickets to the party and be given food, drink, and entertainment. Anyone can buy a ticket, meaning the event is not limited to only those who will be invited to the official wedding. Some couples will even auction off exciting prizes to raise additional funds.
An Old Tradition of Putting a Penny in the Shoe
Plenty of older wedding traditions trace their origins back to the idea of encouraging good luck or warding off evil spirits. One popular custom that follows this concept is for the bride to put a penny in her shoe on the day of her wedding. By doing this, the bride is encouraging a future of prosperity and happiness with her partner. In recent years, this practice has not been limited to the bride. Anyone who is looking to bestow good energy and wealth upon the couple can add a coin to their own shoes.
Finding the Best Tradition for Your Wedding
Incorporating the right wedding traditions into your big day can be both a fun and challenging process. By looking at local traditions, you can guarantee your heritage is a foundational part of the event. Take your time to learn more about different Canadian customs and see which classic rituals are worth including in your celebrations.
