Page 37 - The Essential Rainbow Wedding Ceremony Idea Book

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Traditional Mexican Wedding Rituals

Arras - Thirteen gold coins
The couple exchanges thirteen gold coins. The custom originated in
Spain. The Arras are exchanged as a symbol of the unquestionable trust

and confidence the Couple have in each other. Most often, they are
presented in an ornate box, or on a silver or gold gift tray, or in a silver

or gold tassel bag.

The Couple make pledges to support and care for each other and their
household/family. These coins may become a family heirloom. Traditionally, the Groom was the initiator of the

coin exchange; today couples choose to update the tradition, sharing equally, by handing coins to each other.

The Lazo

A lazo (lasso), is primarily a Mexican / Mexican-
American wedding ritual. A lazo (lasso), is a large

rosary, ribbon, flower garland or a decorated cord
that is draped around the shoulders of the bride

and the groom, groom first. It is placed in a figure

eight (infinity) to affirm their union and their
commitment to always be together side-by-side.

Credit: Lisa Hause Photography Austin TX

The lazo is placed during the ceremony, before the

exchange of the Marriage Vows. The couple wears the
lasso and it is removed later in the ceremony, before the

Pronouncement. Though not a Latin country, a New
Zealand weddings feature the Infinity Loops placed

around the necks of the bride and the groom, to symbolize
their never-ending love.

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