We Irish are big fans of tradition, especially when it comes to weddings, but we’re not the only ones. Have a look at some of the weird and wonderful traditions from across the world.
Indian designs
India is very traditional when it comes to weddings and they have plenty to choose from but we think this is one of the most impressive. In India, the brides are decorated with ‘mendhi’ or henna ink, a temporary ink for the skin. The women of the family spend the night before the wedding drawing intricate designs on the bride’s hands and feet with henna.
Japanese jealousy
Taking the white ensemble to a whole new level, the Japanese bride-to-be may be painted pure white from head to toe, to declare her maiden status to the Gods. The bride also dons a veil or hood that serves to hide the bride's 'horns of jealousy’ and a symbol of the bride’s intention to become a gentle and obedient wife.
Norwegian kransekake
The wedding cake is a big part of any wedding, but what it actually is made of varies from country to country. The Norwegian cake is particularly different from your three-tiered iced sponge. Known as Kransekake, it’s made of a series of cake rings, which are made with almonds, sugar, and egg whites and stuck together with icing.
German kidnapping
Germany isn’t the only country that has a tradition related to kidnapping or hiding the bride, but they are well-known for it. The bride’s family and friends usually kidnap the bride and hide her in a local pub. The groom then has to find her – not to mention pick up the tab at the bar!
French croquembouche
It's not just Norway that has its own special wedding cake. French weddings often serve a croquembouche, a tower of cream-filled pastry puffs, almost like profiteroles. They ca be dipped in various sauces. A croquembouche can be decorated with fruit, nuts, and glazes, and makes for a pretty spectacular centerpiece in lieu of a wedding cake.
Image credits: India: Pinterest | Japan: Wedding Bee | Norway: Hello Studios via Ruffled | Germany: Melissa Gidney Photography | France: The Lane