Are you considering getting married abroad but haven’t decided on the country yet?
Get to know the magic of Portuguese weddings where there is a mix of old traditions with new celebrations. For example, imagine beautiful views, emotional ceremonies, and fun dances. Everyone will remember this forever! Of course, it is important to remember that every wedding is a unique journey that connects the past with the present creating wonderful memories.
So, come with me and learn more about the coolest Portuguese wedding traditions.
Early Morning
To begin with, on the morning of the big day, the bride and groom wake up in different houses. That might be their childhood, their parents’ homes, or their own places. It is believed that it is wrong for the groom to see the bride in her wedding dress before the ceremony. However, some brides just want to surprise their future husbands when they see them for the first time walking down the aisle. No matter what, this tradition creates an atmosphere of excitement and curiosity for both of them.
Preparation
As noted earlier, the bride and groom begin their journey separately in the comfort of their homes, on the wedding day. The bride is with her family and friends when she does her hair, adds a little makeup and puts on her wedding dress. Meanwhile, the groom is getting ready, maybe sharing a drink and jokes with his friends and family. The groom also puts on his stylish suit, ensuring every detail is perfect. Find out here how grooms can make their wedding day even more special. Must be remembered that these moments at home make the beginning of their wedding day special and personal.
Godparents Role
Choosing wedding godparents, who are also called the best man and maid of honour, is more than a tradition. More precisely, it is the choice of friends or family members who are always with the couple and help them create a strong and happy bond. During the wedding, godparents do very special things including preparing them, giving presents or rings, and standing with them until the end of the day. Afterwards, godparents become the couple’s strength, pushing them ahead and making them feel connected and supported.
Fancy Clothes
Normally, the bride wears a very beautiful white dress. It might have pretty lace or be decorated in some way too! The white colour is a popular choice because it means purity and innocence. The bride also wears a veil. Sometimes this can cover her face or just fall back behind her head. She may also put on a shiny tiara on the head and hold in her hands a bouquet. The groom looks very handsome in his stylish suit or tuxedo. It can be of different colours and styles, such as classic black and navy or more modern and colourful. They both look amazing creating a unique and happy atmosphere.
Something Blue
There is a lovely tradition that the bride wears something borrowed and blue in her dress. This comes specifically from someone happily married. This could be, for example, a blue accessory, like jewellery, underwear, or even a little blue detail on her dress. It’s a way to bring good luck to the wedding. The blue colour stands for love, loyalty and dedication. So, when you see a bride with something blue, know that it’s a cute tradition that makes her day even more special.
Civil or Religious Wedding
One of the most important decisions for couples is where they are going to tie the knot. In such a manner, couples have two options. The first option is a civil wedding. This is a quick option that allows the couple to tie the knot in a courtroom or any place that is important to them. Second, the couple may have a religious wedding. In this case, both say “I do” in a church or another sacred place. Therefore, the reality is that both ways make the wedding day unforgettable. In fact, it is only a matter of what people like and believe in.
Walking the Bride Down the Aisle
Certainly, one of the most magical moments during weddings is when the father or anyone special in the family walks the bride down the aisle. The music starts to play when the dad walks the daughter, who is, most of the time, in a lovely white dress. While walking, you can feel the vibe and love between the family and the couple. In addition, it is when some of the guests and the groom see the bride and her dress for the first time. This marks the start of a new chapter as she gets closer to her partner, ready to say “I do”, guided by the comforting presence of her father.
Giving Away the Bride
This is a beautiful moment when the father or another close family member gives away the bride to start her new life with the groom.
Wedding Ring
During the wedding ceremony, there’s a lovely tradition where the couple exchanges rings. The rings represent the love of a couple and their commitment. The groom puts his ring on the bride’s finger, and then she does the same for him. It is a magic moment, as they also express their promises to each other. Certainly, it’s a beautiful way for them to begin this path together as wife and husband!
The First Kiss
As in many places, the first kiss is one of the most magical moments in the wedding. After the bride and groom say their vows and put on rings, they seal their love with a kiss. Many happy guests usually cheer and clap at this time, celebrating the union of the couple. In general, it is a beautiful tradition and it is a symbol of their love.
Throwing Rice
In Portugal, there is a fun tradition of throwing rice at weddings. Typically, it occurs after the ceremony when the bride and groom are leaving. At this instant, friends and family throw rice in the air in front of them. Certainly, it is a happy moment and a wish for a wonderful life for the couple. This rice is like a symbol of good luck for their life together.
Wedding Procession to the Reception Venue
After the wedding ceremony, there is a happy march to the reception venue. The bride and groom ride in a decorated car with their friends and family following. Each car is decorated with ribbons or flowers. Furthermore, people in the cars sometimes honk their horns or wave to join in the celebration. Certainly, this is a fun way to announce to everyone that they are now married and ready to enjoy the party. This march is like a transition from the serious ceremony to the exciting party that’s waiting at the reception.
Cocktail and Appetisers
This is the time when all come together at the reception to have a laugh and a chat while enjoying the great food and drinks presented before the main meal. It is a sort of tasty and fun break before the big party starts, where everyone gets to unwind and have a good time together. Just imagine eating delightful bites of Portuguese food, with tasty pastries and fresh seafood, not to mention the unique cocktails and fabulous wines.
Celebration Meal
At a wedding in Portugal, the meal is a happy and tasty time, indeed. Imagine sitting at nicely decorated tables with lots of different and tasty dishes. From delicious seafood to yummy stews and sweet desserts, the menu shows off the great cooking in Portugal. But it’s not just about eating, it’s a happy time to enjoy together. People laugh, talk, and make toast while having a great meal. In addition, very often people make noise with their cutlery to encourage the bride and groom to kiss.
First Dance
Without a doubt, the first dance is one of the most wonderful and romantic moments. After saying “I do”, the bride and groom hit the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife. It’s an emotional moment when they share the dance floor with their loved ones. The song they choose is usually special to them. In fact, it’s a great way to express their love and the start of a life together. While they dance, they are creating happy memories that everyone will remember.
Fun Music and Dance
Be prepared to have the most amazing time at a Portuguese wedding! There will be so much good music that won’t allow anyone to stay still at a party. After all formalities, it is time to move to the dance floor. Lively music doesn’t stop, from traditional songs to the latest hits. People dance and have a great time, creating lots of happy memories. So, get yourself ready!! Dance and have a blast on the dance floor.
Bouquet Toss
This is such a funny tradition when the bride throws a bouquet to single ladies. So, it is believed that the lucky one who catches this beautiful bunch of flowers will be the next to get married. It is, indeed, an exciting moment! You cannot stop laughing when you see all these single ladies trying to catch the bouquet. What a playful and joyful tradition to have during the wedding!
Goodie Bags for Guests
This is a lovely tradition where guests get goodie bags at weddings. These bags have small gifts, treats, or tokens of appreciation inside. It’s a way for the couple to say thank you to their guests for being part of their special day. Besides, it adds a personal touch to the celebration and gives everyone a little something to remember the wedding day. The goodie bags often reflect the couple’s style. For example, most commonly used are sweets and treats, personalised items such as candles, keychains, magnets, or bookmarks with the couple’s names and wedding date; photo frames, and mini bottles of wine, olive oil, or traditional Portuguese liquor.
Wedding Buffet
At Portuguese weddings, the buffet is like a big feast. It is set out later in the evening to keep the celebration rolling. More delicious food for guests, from tasty snacks to sweet treats. A late buffet adds a little bit more fun to everything so that everyone can party all night happy and full.
Wedding Cake
Thereafter, the Portuguese wedding cake is a delicious and fancy part of the celebration. This is not a regular cake. It is big and multi-layered. The cake is then nicely decorated on the exterior with flowers or miniature versions of the married couple. It can also have a distinctive taste, with almonds, figs, or eggs which are used frequently in Portugal. However, some couples opt for classic flavours like chocolate, vanilla, or fruity.
Saving the Top Layer of the Wedding Cake
There is a lovely tradition in Portugal associated with wedding cake. When the party is over, the bride and groom save the upper layer of the cake. They usually freeze it and store the cake to eat in the future, for example, on their first wedding anniversary. This is a sweet gesture that symbolises the fact that their love will always last. This way they can celebrate the big moments in their married life with the joy of their wedding still fresh in their memory.
Steal the Cake Topper
At some weddings in Portugal, guests play a fun game of “stealing” the cake topper. This sneaky act usually happens when the couple is cutting the cake, trying not to be seen. The successful “thieves” keep their identity secret until the couple’s first wedding anniversary. Then, they reveal themselves returning the cake topper, and treat the couple to a dinner as part of the fun tradition!
Cutting the Cake
With big smiles, the bride and groom stand side by side. When ready, they take a knife to cut their wedding cake together. The couple usually shares the first slice. This moment is incredibly happy and intimate. This gesture symbolises the very first thing they do as husband and wife. Finally, everyone claps at them.
In conclusion, I would like to say that Portuguese wedding traditions and culture are full of beautiful times and exciting celebrations. Whether it is the time to say the special vows, eat the tasty food or dance the playful dances, each moment is made of love and happiness. There is no doubt that Portugal’s wedding traditions are some of the most special and unique moments you and your guests will remember for your entire life. For this reason, don’t miss out! Click to read what unique benefits Portugal offers for weddings.
Do you want to know more about weddings in Portugal or need help planning your special day? Feel free to get in touch with us. We are here to make your wedding dreams in Portugal come true!
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