Germany’s rich cultural heritage has made its wedding traditions a coveted inspiration for many couples around the world. It’s only natural that American brides and grooms would be drawn to incorporating these customs into their special day, adding a unique touch of European flair to their celebration.
If you’re considering weaving traditional German practices into your ceremony or reception, take a deep breath and start exploring!
With a little research, you’ll be well-equipped to bring a taste of Germany’s vibrant culture to your own wedding.
What Are German Marriage Traditions?
A significant proportion of Americans, with over 14% having roots tracing back to Germany, have drawn inspiration for their wedding celebrations from this European nation. With its rich cultural heritage and unique customs, Germany has left an indelible mark on American wedding traditions. For those looking to incorporate a touch of German flair into their special day, our comprehensive guide is the perfect starting point.
Hire an Official Inviter
In Germany, a unique custom has been passed down through generations from the southern regions of the country. Before modern postal services existed, people would hire someone known as a ‘Hochzeitslader’ to spread the word about upcoming weddings. This charming tradition typically begins with the Hochzeitslader visiting guests’ homes and reciting a rhyming invitation in person.
As part of this custom, guests are invited to accept an invitation by taking a ribbon from the Hochzeitslader’s attire and pinning it to their hat. This small act is seen as a sign of acceptance, allowing the guest to then invite the Hochzeitslader into their home for a celebratory drink. If any of your wedding guests reside in nearby areas, be sure to incorporate this delightful German tradition into your wedding planning process.
Hide a Penny
A classic German wedding tradition involves hiding a small token, typically a penny, inside the bride’s shoes, known as the ‘Brautschuh’, on her big day. This practice is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to her future marriage. Some brides opt for securing the penny to the outside of their shoes to avoid any discomfort or awkwardness. This endearing custom has been passed down through generations, serving as a sweet reminder of the importance of financial stability in the union.
Smash Porcelain
In German marriage traditions, one custom stands out for its unique flair: the Polterabend. This festive gathering, literally translating to ‘making loud noises’ and ‘evening’, takes place at the bride’s residence before her big day. As guests arrive in the front yard, they celebrate by shattering porcelain plates, bowls, mugs, and more. The tradition has evolved over time, with some opting for ceramics or stoneware instead of traditional porcelain.
While the origins of Polterabend are unclear, historians speculate that Germanic tribes may have practiced a similar custom to ward off evil spirits. In modern times, this ritual is woven into German weddings as a means of securing good fortune for the couple’s union. The newlyweds’ joint effort in cleaning up the broken pieces serves as a poignant reminder of their commitment to working together as a harmonious pair.
Drink From The Bridal Chalice
A centuries-old German legend tells the tale of a goldsmith’s romantic gesture towards a nobleman’s daughter. He crafted a unique bridal chalice as a token of his affection, showcasing his craftsmanship to win her heart.
Fast forward to today, this pewter drinkware has become a beloved tradition among German couples, particularly on their special day. Its innovative design allows two people to share a romantic toast without spilling a drop, making it a staple at weddings and beyond.
With the option to customize with your wedding date or names, these charming bridal chalices can be tailored to commemorate your love story.
Cut a Log
In place of the traditional bridal chalice, some couples opt for a unique and challenging unity ceremony – sawing a log together! This quirky tradition has been a staple in many German weddings, serving as an early test of teamwork and communication between the newlyweds.
As part of this ritual, the happy couple typically uses a large saw with two handles to tackle a dry, old piece of wood.
The choice of material is deliberate, ensuring that the process is efficient and doesn’t detract from the celebration of their special day.
This unusual ceremony has been a long-standing tradition in Germany, providing an entertaining and memorable experience for the newlyweds and their guests alike.
Waltz With Your Significant Other
As you prepare to seal your love with your first dance song, consider embracing another cherished tradition: the waltz. With roots dating back to the 13th century, this elegant ballroom and folk dance is often performed in a closed position with swift turns. Its classic charm makes it a perfect fit for weddings that pay homage to retro aesthetics.
Participate in a Discofox Dance
In recent years, the discofox dance has become increasingly popular among young couples in Germany, particularly those looking to incorporate a unique and lively element into their special day. This spontaneous dance style, which is similar to the hustle popularized in the United States, typically involves two partners and encourages improvisation. The energetic atmosphere is often amplified by the upbeat tempo of disco music or other high-energy tracks.
Decorate With Cornflowers
As you finalize the details of your German wedding celebration, incorporating the country’s national flower into your floral arrangements is a thoughtful touch. The bachelor’s button, also known as the cornflower, was once a beloved favorite among Prussian royalty and gained popularity prior to German unification. Its striking blue-violet hue makes it an exquisite addition to any wedding decor.
However, it’s essential to consider that these flowers do have a distinct fragrance, which may cause issues for guests with allergies. Make sure to take this into account when selecting your arrangements to ensure all attendees can fully appreciate the beauty of your German-inspired celebration.
Incorporate German Words
Give your German wedding ceremony and reception a unique touch by incorporating phrases from the native language. Get creative by replacing table numbers with numbers like eins, zwei, drei, and so on. If you’re writing your own vows to each other, consider using endearing terms like ‘liebling’ instead of sweetheart or ‘mein Schatz’ instead of my love.
Add a dash of German flair to your happy sentiments by substituting ‘froh’ for the word ‘happy’, conveying the joy and elation you feel around your significant other. Don’t be afraid to use words like ‘feier’ in place of celebration, making your special day even more unforgettable. And when sharing a romantic kiss with your loved one, consider using the German word ‘kuss’ to make it an even more memorable moment.
Serve German Food
When planning the menu for your wedding reception, it’s essential to incorporate local flavors that pay homage to traditional German cuisine. Unlike modern-day buffets, German weddings often feature sit-down dinners, so keep this in mind as you finalize your food choices.
The first course typically starts with ‘Hochzeitssuppe’, a hearty soup made with chicken broth, meat, egg custard garnish, asparagus tips, small meatballs, and thin glass noodles.
Feel free to experiment by using beef broth instead for a unique twist.
For the second course, Tafelspitz is a popular choice. This Austrian-inspired dish, translated as ‘top of the table’, features thinly sliced boiled beef served with horseradish, onions, and sometimes accompanied by fried potatoes and apples.
In northern Germany, you’ll often find ‘Birnen, Bohenen, und Speck’ on the menu – a stew made with pears, beans, and bacon.
This dish takes its name from its three main ingredients and is sure to please.
Finally, no German wedding would be complete without a traditional ‘Baumkuchen’, a layered wedding cake prepared with honey and almonds. This sweet treat is the perfect way to cap off your culinary journey.
Play German Music
When crafting a playlist for a traditional German wedding day, don’t be afraid to incorporate songs sung in the native language. One of the most sought-after tracks is Silbermond’s ‘Das Beste’ (translated to ‘The Best’), which is perfect for couples seeking a romantic piano ballad. For a love-filled playlist, ‘Liebe Ist Alles’ (or ‘Love Is Everything’) by Rosenstolz creates a sweet atmosphere without being too sentimental.
Revolverheld’s ‘Ich Lass Fuer Dich Das Licht An’ (‘I Leave The Light On For You’) is another great choice that will surely leave everyone in awe. As one of Europe’s most populous countries, Germany has plenty to offer when it comes to marriage traditions. If you’re incorporating German wedding customs into your celebration, we’d love to know which ones you’ve chosen.
Take a moment to share with us any unique German wedding traditions that might have been missed from our guide in the comments section!