Belarus Wedding Traditions

In Belarus the oldest daughter marries first, followed by her younger sisters in order of birth. This tradition is known as the -order of priority.” It is considered taboo for daughters to marry out of order. The bride’s father typically arranges the wedding, which last for three days. Just before the wedding the bride’s family gives the groom’s family gifts. Legally all official weddings must take place at the Registry Office, but more traditional couples have a second ceremony in church. Towels have historically played a large role in Belarus weddings. Wedding gifts are often wrapped in towels, and members of the bride’s family are tied to members of the groom’s family with towels. This symbolizes the joining of the two families. Wedding towels are treasured heirlooms that are passes from generation to generation.

Modern bride’s in Belarus often choose to wear white as a sign of joy, though this is not always the standard. It is customary for a bride to by her own shoes as a sign of her thriftiness. Belarus brides wear a veil to hide their face from their groom, because the groom it is bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the marriage.

During the wedding the bride is surrounded by her bridesmaids. In the past this was to protect the bride from evil spirits. At the end of the ceremony the bride and groom seal their marriage with a kiss. The kiss is what officially seals the marriage. Following the ceremony the bride will toss her veil to all the unmarried women and the one who catches it will traditionally be the next to marry. Most Belarus wedding receptions are held at restaurants.