Page 38 - The Essential Wedding Ceremony Idea Book

37

Traditional Mexican Wedding Rituals

Arras - Thirteen gold coins
The groom gives the bride thirteen gold coins. The custom originated
in Spain. The Arras are exchanged as a symbol of the unquestionable

trust and confidence the Bride and Groom 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 Bride and Groom pledge 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 some couples choose to update the tradition by each 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.

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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