Wedding traditions in Spain are a reflection of the history, culture and romanticism that surround each marriage. From ancestral rituals to customs that have evolved over time, each detail has a special meaning. Did you know that the exchange of coins is a symbol of prosperity and commitment? Or that throwing rice at the bride and groom is a way of wishing them fertility and abundance?
Each region of Spain has its own special touch at weddings, from flamenco parties in Andalusia to traditional dances in Galicia. Gastronomy also plays a key role, with banquets that vary depending on the area, but are always abundant and full of flavor. Beyond the bride’s dress and the ceremony, these rituals make each wedding unique and unforgettable.
If you are planning your wedding or are simply passionate about learning more about these customs, in this article we take you on a tour full of charm and curiosities. Discover the wedding traditions in Spain here and immerse yourself in a world of celebration and love!
The arras: The symbol of union and prosperity
One of the most symbolic wedding traditions in Spain that cannot be missed in a ceremony is the delivery of the arras. These are 13 coins that the groom gives to the bride during the exchange of vows, as a symbol of sharing assets and prosperity in the future marriage. These coins represent the promise to mutually take care of the family economy and are usually kept in a small silver box or tray, often passed down from generation to generation.
If you are celebrating a destination wedding and want to give it an authentic Spanish touch, incorporating the arras is an excellent way to connect with this tradition.
The mantilla: elegance and tradition in the bride’s dress
The mantilla is one of the most iconic elements of bridal attire in wedding traditions in Spain. This delicate lace piece, usually white or ivory, is placed on the bride’s head and secured with a comb, lending an air of classic elegance. It is especially popular in southern Spain, in places like Andalusia, where the mantilla is part of the rich cultural heritage.
If you decide on a destination wedding in Spain, wearing a mantilla will add that touch of sophistication and tradition that all your guests will love.
The Maid of Honor: An Unusual Figure in Wedding traditions in Spain
Unlike other cultures where bridesmaids play an important role in the wedding, in Spanish wedding traditions it is less common for the bride to have a large entourage of bridesmaids. Instead, there is usually just one godmother, who is a key figure in the ceremony. Traditionally, the godmother is the mother of the groom, who accompanies the groom to the altar, while the godfather, who is usually the father of the bride, accompanies his daughter.
If you want to respect local customs at your destination wedding in Spain, you can choose to have just one godmother and one godfather, following this tradition that focuses more on close family.
The Banquet: Food, Food, and More Food
No Spanish wedding would be complete without a lavish banquet, one of the most anticipated parts of Spanish wedding traditions. The banquet usually consists of several courses, starting with a wide variety of starters, followed by main courses of meat or fish, and culminating with a selection of desserts and sweets.
Food is one of the most important elements of any wedding in Spain, and if you are organizing a destination wedding here, you should make sure that your guests enjoy a traditional banquet with local flavors, such as Iberian ham, paella or suckling pig.
In this article we will tell you the best dishes with a Spanish flavor to surprise your guests with a Spanish wedding banquet.
Late weddings and partying until dawn
One of the wedding traditions in Spain that most surprises foreigners is the custom of celebrating weddings in the afternoon, which guarantees a party that lasts well into the early hours of the morning. The ceremony usually starts around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., followed by a long banquet and a party that, in many cases, does not end until dawn.
If you want your destination wedding in Spain to follow this tradition, make sure you prepare your guests for a night of non-stop celebration. Music, food, and a festive atmosphere are the stars of an unforgettable night.
The Wedding Dance: The Waltz and Beyond
The wedding dance is an important part of wedding traditions in Spain. Traditionally, the couple opens the dance floor with a waltz, although today many couples opt for modern choreography or special songs that represent their relationship. After the waltz, the guests also join the dance floor and the party officially begins.
If you want to incorporate this tradition into your destination wedding in Spain, you can open the dance floor with a classic waltz or surprise your guests with custom choreography that reflects your style.
The Groom’s Tie… Gets Cut!
One of the most fun customs in Spanish wedding traditions is the cutting of the groom’s tie. Friends of the groom often cut his tie into small pieces and then sell them among the guests as a symbol of good luck. The proceeds are then given to the bride and groom as a nice way to support them in the first moments of their new life together.
This is a tradition that brings a touch of humor and camaraderie to the wedding, and if you’re looking to integrate into the local culture during your destination wedding, make sure you don’t miss out on this custom!
Giving guests souvenirs
In Spanish wedding traditions, it’s common for the bride and groom to give their guests small souvenirs to thank them for coming on the big day. These details, known as “wedding details,” are often local products, such as fans, typical sweets, or small bottles of olive oil, which add a personal and cultural touch to the celebration.
If you’re planning a destination wedding in Spain, giving your guests local souvenirs is a beautiful way to share Spanish culture and have everyone take a little piece of the country home with them.
Throwing rice at the bride and groom
Among the most popular wedding traditions in Spain is throwing rice at the bride and groom as they leave the ceremony. This custom has deep meaning, as it symbolizes fertility and good wishes for the couple’s new life together. Although in some Spanish regions rice is being replaced with flower petals or organic confetti, it remains a much-loved and respected tradition.
Incorporating rice throwing is a great way to add a local touch to your destination wedding in Spain, creating a fun and symbolic moment.
The bride’s garter
Another wedding tradition in Spain that is still alive is the use of the garter by the bride. During the reception, the groom must remove the bride’s garter, which is then auctioned off or given to one of the single friends, as a symbol of good luck for being the next to marry.
Incorporating this custom into your destination wedding in Spain will add a touch of fun and tradition that your guests will remember with a smile.
Come and learn about them with us!
Wedding traditions in Spain are full of symbolism, joy and unforgettable moments that make these celebrations unique. If you are planning a destination wedding in this wonderful country, do not hesitate to integrate some of these customs to create an authentic and memorable experience. From the delivery of the coins to the all-night banquet, every detail will enrich your wedding and allow you to connect with the rich Spanish culture.
Living a wedding with a Spanish flavor will be an unforgettable experience for both you and your guests! And if you want everything to be perfectly organized, Natalia Ortiz Weddings and Events will help you design the wedding of your dreams, making sure that no detail is missing. Immerse yourself in Spanish traditions and experience a memorable wedding!
If you are passionate about cultural traditions and are considering other options for your destination wedding, you can also find a selection of wedding traditions celebrated in Portugal on our blog. And if you prefer the Mediterranean, we also tell you about wedding traditions celebrated in Italy.
Both countries, like Spain, have rich and unique customs that will add a special and authentic touch to your wedding. From charming Italian rituals to emotional celebrations in Portugal, you will discover ideas and details that will make your big day even more memorable, incorporating the best of Mediterranean culture.
Don’t think twice!