A look into Latvia's unique wedding traditions
What's the story
Latvia, a nation steeped in cultural history and customs, holds a special place for the celebration of love and the union of two souls in marriage.
From time-honored traditions rooted in ancient folklore to contemporary customs that echo the past, Latvian weddings are a harmonious fusion of history and modernity.
Read on to discover five unique wedding traditions that embody the Latvian spirit of celebrating love and commitment.
Welcome ritual
The Majas viesis: Welcoming the wedding guests
In the beautiful and symbolic majas viesis tradition at Latvian weddings, newlyweds welcome each guest with bread and salt.
The bread represents abundance and prosperity, while the salt reminds guests of the bitter moments and challenges that life brings.
This welcoming gesture is a heartfelt invitation from the couple, expressing their hope that guests will partake in both the sweetness and struggles of their shared life.
Bridal test
The seven bridges challenge
A fascinating tradition that serves as a test of strength and endurance for the bride and groom is the crossing of seven bridges.
This custom symbolizes the couple's commitment to navigate life's challenges together, providing support and comfort to each other in times of difficulty.
Accomplishing this task is believed to fortify the bonds of marriage, fostering a harmonious union characterized by happiness, mutual understanding, and unwavering loyalty.
Bride kidnapping
The kidnapping of the bride
In a tradition that may raise a few eyebrows among uninitiated guests, bride-kidnapping adds a thrilling twist to many Latvian wedding celebrations.
Midway through the festivities, friends or even family members "kidnap" the bride, sparking a fun-filled rescue mission for the groom.
This lighthearted custom serves as a reminder that love should never be taken for granted, but rather actively pursued at all times.
Crown Ritual
The midnight crown change
At the stroke of midnight during a Latvian wedding reception, a beautiful tradition takes place - the changing of crowns from maidenhood to matrimony.
The bride begins the evening wearing a floral crown symbolizing her maidenhood, which is exchanged for a wife's cap or crown during this special ceremony.
This pivotal moment signifies her shift from singlehood to the world of matrimony.
Starlight Dance
Dancing under the stars
To cap off a day full of special traditions and merriment, Latvian weddings typically conclude with the newlyweds dancing under the starlit sky.
This dreamy custom serves as the perfect ending to the celebrations, while also holding a symbolic meaning.
It signifies a hopeful beginning for the couple, as they dance into their new life under the open sky, surrounded by friends and family.