Different Types of Wedding Parties
When it comes to wedding celebrations, every culture has its own way of marking the joyous occasion. Let’s explore different types of wedding parties.
Each culture has its own distinct way of celebrating nuptials. These practices can be traditional, unconventional, unique or downright outrageous! Today we will examine various types of wedding parties from around the world.
Bridal Shower
This widely celebrated custom originated in Holland as a way to bypass the dowry system. Originally, the invited ladies would drop small gifts into a parasol. The bride-to-be would open it and be ‘showered’ with gifts. The purpose of the shower is to help the couple out should they not be able to afford the necessary items essential to building a home and life together.
The Art of Mehndi/Mehndi Party
In India, the days leading up to the wedding are filled with the art of Mehndi, which is believed to symbolize love, prosperity and a deepening bond between the couple. Henna tattoos are applied to the bride’s hands and feet, often with hidden initials of the groom.
Aufruf
Aufruf means “Calling up” in Yiddish. It’s a traditional ceremony that takes place the Saturday morning before a Jewish wedding. Celebrated at a synagogue, the groom (sometimes the bride too) is called to the Torah to recite an Aliyah (blessing). This represents the commitment he has for the marriage. The congregation wishes the couple luck and happiness by throwing soft candies at them. A light shared meal usually follows.
Hen’s Night/Bachelorette Party
Mostly celebrated in the US, UK, Australia and New Zealand, the hen’s night or bachelorette party involves various types of entertainment. It can anything from a wild night out (male strippers included) or a pyjama party, to a weekend at a spa or a week-long vacation. Originating in Greece, the bride would spend a night with her female friends and family who would share their experiences about the wedding night and anything marriage-related that the bride-to-be wouldn’t know.
Stag Night/Bucks Party/Bachelor Party
Much like the hen’s night, the buck’s party can be anything from a weekend adventuring in the wilderness or a crazy night out (female strippers included). It originated in Sparta, where military men would hold a night of celebration for a man the night before his wedding.
Rehearsal Dinner
Likely originating in the late 19th or early 20th century, the rehearsal dinner exists in various forms in different cultures. It’s a way for family and friends from both sides to get to know each other and ensure everyone knows what to do during the wedding ceremony. The groom’s side would organise it, but today both sides arrange it. These days, it can be as formal or casual as the couple chooses.
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