Mexico, home to over 128 million people, is a treasure trove of inspiration for couples looking to incorporate traditional elements into their special day. With its rich cultural heritage and unique customs, Mexico offers a plethora of ideas for an unforgettable wedding celebration. For those interested in hosting a traditional Mexican wedding ceremony and reception, but unfamiliar with the country’s cultural values, fear not!
Our comprehensive guide is here to provide insight into the country’s time-honored traditions. As a former Spanish colony, Mexico shares many of its marriage customs with Latin American countries and the Philippines, including the practice of naming role model sponsors, planning a money dance, and exchanging 13 wedding coins, among others. By exploring these unique customs, couples can create a truly one-of-a-kind celebration that reflects their love and commitment to each other.
Learn all about Mexican wedding traditions by reading our guide here at YeahWeddings!
Wear Mexican Wedding Attire
When it comes to wedding attire in Mexico, there’s an unspoken dress code that’s heavily influenced by the country’s predominantly Catholic population. In many ways, Mexico’s wedding fashion mirrors that of Western countries.
In central regions, brides often opt for a traditional huipil as their Mexican-inspired wedding dress. This garment is similar to tunics, with varying lengths and decorative details that reflect the event’s formality.
Made from cotton or wool, the huipil is a popular choice among Mexican brides.
For those seeking an alternative to the classic huipil, flamenco gowns are another option. These bold, ruffled outfits typically feature vibrant red hues, but can also be found in white, perfect for a more understated look.
Grooms who want to escape the heat on their big day may consider skipping the tuxedo altogether and opting for a stylish guayabera instead.
Made from silk and linen, this Mexican wedding shirt is characterized by its two vertical rows of stitching along the front and back. A comfortable and dashing alternative to traditional formalwear.
Adorn the Wedding Lasso
When incorporating traditional Mexican wedding elements into your special day, don’t overlook the significance of el lazo. This unity ritual typically takes place after the couple has exchanged their vows and is commonly found in Catholic ceremonies throughout Mexico. The choice of lasso material is yours to make – it could be a silk cord, a double rosary, or even a decorative rope adorned with flowers from your bridal bouquet.
Los padrinos y madrinas, the couple’s sponsors, are responsible for placing the lasso around the shoulders of the newlyweds, symbolizing their union as one. According to Mexican wedding customs, the bride and groom will wear the lasso until the end of the ceremony. As a romantic keepsake, you’re free to keep the cord, rosary, or rope as a reminder of your special day.
Present the Bridal Bouquet to Mary
When couples seek to infuse their wedding ceremony with Catholic Mexican traditions that reflect their faith, one meaningful practice is to present the bridal bouquet to the Virgin Mary. This centuries-old European tradition has been carried forward in Mexico and serves as a poignant way for newlyweds to honor this revered figure at the start of their life together. To make it even more special, brides can prepare an additional bouquet specifically for post-ceremony photographs.
Lead the Wedding Parade
In Mexico, a unique tradition unfolds after the marriage ceremony – the ‘wedding parade’ or ‘la callejoneada’. This festive procession involves the newlyweds leading the way, followed by guests, all reveling in song, dance, and merriment as they make their way to the reception venue. A key element of this celebration is the inclusion of donkeys and puppets, affectionately referred to as mojigangas, which are designed to resemble the happy couple.
While not a ubiquitous tradition across Mexico, la callejoneada is a beloved custom primarily practiced in northern and central cities, such as San Miguel, where couples can cherish this joyful and memorable experience.
Incorporate a Sea Snake Dance
The Sea Snake Dance, or ‘la vibora de la mar’ as it’s known in Spanish, is an exhilarating activity that brings your entire wedding party together. According to traditional Mexican wedding receptions, this lively performance commences with the newlyweds standing on chairs positioned opposite each other, forming a majestic arch. As the music builds momentum, guests pass through while grasping hands and grooving to the beat.
The real challenge lies in maintaining the ‘snake’ formation as your wedding party works together to adapt their movements to the quickening tempo.
Lift Up The Groom
When it comes to infusing Mexican flair into your special day, ‘el muertito’ is a timeless tradition that’s sure to bring the house down! The ceremony begins when the groom is lifted onto the shoulders of all the male guests and playfully tossed into the air several times. But that’s not all – things can quickly take a turn for the mischievous as his wedding party decides to have some fun, perhaps by removing his shoes and filling them with tiny gifts or cash.
Switch Gender Roles
While Mexican wedding traditions like ‘la vibora de la mar’ or ‘el muertito’ might not be the perfect fit for your celebration, there’s another option to consider: ‘el baile del mandilon.’ This unique tradition turns traditional gender roles on their head and offers a fresh spin on the typical wedding dance.
The domesticated husband dance begins with the groom being dressed in an apron and given a task, such as carrying a wooden spoon, sponge or broom.
A child – often a baby or toddler – joins in, representing the couple’s own future offspring.
Meanwhile, the bride takes on a more masculine role by donning a cowboy hat, cracking open a beer, or puffing on a cigar. She then playfully ‘whips’ her husband with a belt, symbolizing their newfound equality in marriage.
By reversing traditional gender stereotypes, ‘el baile del mandilon’ drives home the message that in their new life together, the couple is equals, each having a say in their future.
Include a Pinata
In Mexico, breaking open a piñata with your spouse during the wedding reception is a beloved tradition that has become increasingly popular among couples. This festive activity, which originated in Mexico, has evolved to include new twists and surprises. Many couples now fill their piñatas with small tokens of appreciation for their guests, such as gift cards, jewelry, and mini liquor bottles.
As an alternative to the traditional garter toss, some Mexican couples have begun swapping out prizes for pieces of bridal lingerie, making the experience even more memorable.
Throw a Flower Bouquet
While the bouquet toss is often associated with American weddings, it’s also a cherished tradition in Mexican celebrations. Known as ‘lanzar el ramo,’ the custom involves single female guests dancing around the bride as she blindly throws her floral arrangement into the crowd to the rhythm of lively music. The excitement and anticipation are palpable as the bride tosses the bouquet, which is believed to foretell the future of the next person to get married.
According to Mexican wedding reception traditions, the lady who catches the bouquet will typically dance with the male guest who received the garter from the groom’s own toss, a delightful fusion of romance and celebration.
Play Mexican Music
Looking to create an unforgettable atmosphere at your Mexican-themed wedding? Look no further than these timeless tunes that are guaranteed to get everyone in the mood! For a classic and romantic vibe, Pedro Infante’s ‘Amorcito Corazon’ is a must-have. With its heartfelt lyrics and nostalgic charm, it’s been making couples swoon since 1949! If you’re looking for something a bit more upbeat, Calibre 50’s ‘Contigo’ has got you covered.
Its sweet serenades are sure to make your first dance unforgettable. To really set the tone for your celebration, Vicente Fernandez’s ‘Hermoso Carino’ is a beautiful choice. This wholesome melody will have your guests swaying along in no time! And don’t forget to explore our list of Spanish love songs for even more inspiration for your wedding playlist!
Hire Mariachis
When planning a Mexican wedding, it’s common practice to hire mariachi musicians to keep guests entertained throughout the celebration. This traditional genre of music has its roots in 18th century western Mexico and typically features a unique blend of instruments, including trumpets and stringed instruments like acoustic guitars and violins.
In addition to providing lively tunes during cocktail hour or dinner, consider requesting that your mariachi performers play hymns during the wedding mass for a touch of cultural authenticity.
Serve Mexican Food
Bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico to life at your wedding by introducing innovative dishes beyond the usual suspects like burritos and nachos. Taquitos, for instance, are an excellent choice, particularly when filled with refried beans, green chiles, scallions, and chicken, creating a mouth-watering culinary experience.
Mexican cuisine also offers an array of delectable options that will surely delight your guests.
Gorditas, made from maize dough and stuffed with chile verde, eggs, or pork, are a popular choice for wedding menus. For a unique soup option, menudo is a staple at many traditional Mexican weddings. This hearty dish is crafted with beef tripe, red chili peppers, garlic, and corn, seasoned with limes and oregano.
When it comes to sweet treats, Tres Leches cake is the perfect indulgence for your guests.
Its moist texture and subtle sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Host an After-Party
Following the main celebration, the after-party, also known as ‘la tornaboda,’ typically unfolds either immediately or the next day. This exclusive gathering is reserved for family members and closest friends of the newlyweds. As the night unwinds, the happy couple usually dedicates this time to opening their gifts, a cherished moment shared with those they hold dear.
