slavic wedding traditions

2 of 17. Here are several examples of Serbian traditional wedding menu. There is an old Serbian folk saying: “It’s better to sell the country, rather than lose traditions.” Traditions and customs of a nation, in addition to language and religion, are important keepers of the ethnic identity of a community. Untouched glass meant the opposite. The Wedding procedure starts with the groom's side sending elders (Shimagle) who then request a union between the parties. Работа Владимира Кулакова и студии SaveMoment They will surprise you for sure while they are accompanied by kidnapping, obstacle courses, and many things that may seem absolutely weird to you. Sometimes, Serbian wedding may last for a few days! Mar 6, 2016 - Explore Seattle Weddings's board "Russian Theme", followed by 4942 people on Pinterest. Spit-cooked beef meat is served mainly in rural areas. The door or gate of the house is especially well decorated. Today’s story is about weddings in Russia before Peter the Great (until the 17th century). Source: Meet Russia Online © All rights reserved 2018-2021. There are different cakes, at Serbian weddings. See more ideas about russian wedding, russian wedding traditions, russian fashion. Such early marriages were justified by the short life expectancy and the need to have as many children as possible. Easter is the day of the resurrection of Christ. Nowadays, a large number of the newlyweds opt for a nice old-fashioned Folk Costume instead of trendy Wedding dresses and Groom Tuxedos and Suits. Not So Fast. Decoration is an indispensable entertainment, enjoyed by both old and young. Whether they go to church or the municipal building, wedding guests form an entertaining column of cars. How did people get married after Peter? Wedding Veil. Sarma (a dish made of cabbage, minced meat and rice) or Stuffed peppers (dried peppers are used). Engagement is the announcement of mutual consent of the couple in love to get married. Nowadays, it’s just a joke, a way to calm the jitters. After the wedding ceremony, the celebration goes on, with Folklore dancing and singing, a lot of food and drink. Often, the matchmakers were hired by the parents of the groom, but sometimes the relatives of the groom acted as such. If the matchmaking phase was successful, the time came for the viewing. The term “hands-shaking” came from a symbolic shaking of the hands of the fathers of the bride and groom, which meant that there was no turning back, and the wedding would take place. Njeguska prsuta and Uzicka prsuta (homemade prosciutto), homemade pork sausage, stuffed eggs, Russian Salad, Ham and cheese bread rolls, Kajmak (traditional dairy Product). Back then, people used to get married very early: for girls this age was 12-13 years old, and boys could get married starting from 14-15 years old. The “old godfather” custom (which is transmitted from generation to generation) is strictly respected by the Serbian people. Today we start a new series of articles dedicated to Russian wedding traditions. In the old days, … It all begins in the morning at the Bride's house. Bachelorette party, 1889. If you get an invitation to the Serbian wedding, don’t miss it! Marriage being sort of a turning point in life, wedding ceremony and everything related to it has always been accompanied with variety of traditions and beliefs, some rooted in hoary antiquity, some recently devised, but all targeted at bringing good luck to the newlyweds and averting misfortune from them. After all, most wedding ceremonies are rooted in tradition, and involve a series of predetermined steps that have been taken for years (if not centuries!). The ritual of baking a wedding cake (Karavay) is still followed by the parents – the groom`s mother has to bake a karavay and present it to the newlyweds when a couple comes to their house. Mixed meat roast (lamb, pork, veal), Potatoes on Serbian way (fat from roasted meat is topped), cooked vegetables. Beef ham, Homemade prosciutto, Serbian cheese (semi soft cheese), Hard cheese (e.g. We told you about the wedding rituals of the Slavs in the Middle Ages. Just a few words that can describe the atmosphere of Serbian wedding. Parents sat against one another and kept silent for a few minutes. The married life should be sweet like cakes! Stealing the bride’s shoes by a child is a funny and cute custom. In addition, godparents throw metal coins around, in front of the church, which is supposed to symbolize prosperity for newlyweds, in their future married life. To create the real impression, you need to see, to smell, you need to experience it for yourself. Thereafter, the newlyweds and guests go to a wedding ceremony, in a church. This is where … The wedding has always been and remains one of the main events in the life of almost every person. At the celebration, there are many customs. Origin of the Word Slav Explained, The 8 Best Russian Movies and TV Shows on Netflix. Surely, we may conclude, the respect of marriage is deeply rooted in the Serbian tradition. In Russia engagement or betrothal were considered the most important ceremony before wedding. The groom has to shoot the apple. On the very day of the wedding, the groom was supposed to arrive at his bride’s house in a cart decorated with bells. The custom was that the first three or so visits ended in a refusal. The wedding ceremony begins early in the morning. A traditional Russian wedding can last between two days and one week. Then, they should kiss each other. The girl who catches the bouquet is the lucky one – she is going to be the next bride! The betrothal is the first part of a traditional Russian Orthodox ceremony. Their duties included not only the matchmaking itself, but also often the choice of the bride from suitable candidates. Then, they all go together to the bride’s house. Also, learn about Celtic wedding and engagement ring symbolism, choosing a Celtic wedding tattoo and Celtic wedding cakes. Particularly large changes in the organization of weddings and in the arrangement of personal life occurred under Peter the Great who brought changes to all spheres of life. Back then, people used to get married very early: for girls this age was 12-13 years old, and boys could get married starting from 14-15 years old. This wedding tradition dates back to the origin of arranged marriages. The representative of the groom’s family went to meet the potential bride and her family. Betrothal. Funny and silly! This tradition is kept today, in slightly altered form. After the wedding ceremony in the church, the guests go to the Wedding Luncheon. But it still practiced at weddings: when the groom’s mother greets the bride and groom. Wearing "something old" represents the bride's past, while the "something new" symbolizes the couple's happy future. Then, the groom has to do the same thing to her. Iriski, Sjenicki), chicken salad, Leskovacki urnebes (cream cheese with red paprika pepper), Proja (type of corn-bread). Русская традиционная свадьба. The following weeks were broken down into stages. Russian wedding traditions: Engagement. Also, the ground from the porch of the bride’s house to the cart was swept so that not a single stone (obstacle) would come in the way of future spouses. Upon their return, a cheerful and large feast began, which could last up to three days. There is a lot of food, particularly meat, and beverages, especially Serbian traditional Rakija (type of brandy) and Wine. According to the belief, the spirits of ancestors are living in the doorstep of each house,  protecting the household and family members. Christmas in Croatia: Traditions & How to Celebrate, Maslenitsa Melbourne 2015: The Biggest Slavic Festival in Southern Hemisphere, Serbian “Slava” on the UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, What Does Slav Mean? "Something blue" denotes fidelity and love. To be the best man is a great honor, this offer should not be refused. Matchmaking was the first stage, previously agreed upon by the parents of both families. Indonesia: Got to Go? This means that the groom „buys“ the bride from the groom’s brother. According to the custom, the Serbs prefer to organize big weddings, so the tent is a perfect solution. Oh, sure ­­– plentiful menu, we should not skip such important characteristic of Serbian wedding! The wedding traditions regarding karavai in Belarus are similar to Ukrainian. Vegetable Potage or veal soup the Serbian way. After that, the young couple was taken to church where they were married. Svatovi are the wedding guests. The traditional Slovenian wedding consists of much activity. Only when he takes off the apple from the tree, he is allowed to enter the bride’s house. The bride was supposed to symbolically “die” for her own family (the withering and lamentation was a part of the tradition) and to “be born” in another family. If he drank a glass of honey brought to him by his potential wife, this indicated that he agreed to marry her. The groom will also arrive here and will be asked by the guests to participate is some games that will take place prior to the wedding. Buklia is a nice decorated bottle filled with homemade Wine or Rakija (traditional fruit brandy). You will learn about this in our next article! Buklia is used to invite guests to the wedding, like a formal invitation. They don’t let these wonderful customs sink into oblivion. The bride gives the groom first bite from this piece, making a mess around his mouth! Despite their seemingly unique matrimonial ceremonies, Russian weddings have adopted some western traditions, including incorporating bridesmaids into the wedding party. The Wedding Luncheon is composed of several parts: 1) an appetizer, 2) a soup, 3) a main dish, 4) roast or grilled meatgrill and 5) a lot of cakes. This is a brief overview of Serbian weddings. In addition, through the matchmaker, the groom learned details about the appearance and character of the bride, which in some cases he could see for the first time openly only on the wedding day. Just like in the Western world, it is a tradition in Russia for newlyweds to exchange wedding rings. Easter. The custom was established at the time when life was subordinated to rural activities. Firstly, wedding guests come to the groom’s house. Meet the Slavs covers topics related to the Slavic culture, history, mythology and more. History Aug 05 2020 Georgy Manaev Getty Images Russian courtship and matrimonial rituals were as complex as they come. Polygamy, although practiced, was generally rare. A special moment in a woman’s life was a bachelorette party, when the girl’s girlfriends first untied the bride’s braid and took the red ribbon woven into her hair (the red ribbon symbolized the girl’s youth and beauty), and then weaved her braid again but this time with a string decorated with pearls which was a symbol of the new married life. When the wedding cake is spectacularly presented, the bride and groom cut together the first piece of cake. After the wedding, the young couple went to the groom’s house, where they were met by their parents and blessed with bread. The movements of the girl were closely watched by the matchmakers and the groom who evaluated her physical condition. What kind of food Serbs serve at traditional wedding? Therefore, before to begin outing together ideas for wedding registry, you need to figure out what type of wedding you’ll have first.. traditional: Though not religious, the traditional wedding follows certain norms that are common to the religious wedding. Russia in the 12th century was not a single state but a large formation made of numerous small principalities, thus wedding traditions varied from a principality to a principality, from tribe to tribe. The rites symbolized the transition of the girl from the father’s clan to the husband’s clan. Hungary: the bride is for sale! After it, they had the right to be called a bride and a groom. The bride is supposed to get her "something borrowed" from someone who is happily married in the hope that some of that person's good fortune rubs off on her. The iridescent ringing was to scare away evil spirits. It is usually his best friend. Today, brides ask either parent or both parents to walk them down the aisle. In the morning, when receiving guests at bridegroom’s house, and then at the bride’s home, the hosts usually set up the buffet table. Trumpeters, Buklia, Folklore dancing and singing, ikebana flowers, rosemary for wedding guests, apple shooting, sieve throwing, “buy the bride”…. In general, there are many different wedding styles in America, each with their own list of wedding traditions. Kum is the best man at a wedding. According to Serbian tradition, the dining hall is a Wedding Tent instead of the restaurant or hotel. Your email address will not be published. The most common and best-known Serbian traditions are related to the life cycle, including the wedding. Your wedding reception is easy to personalize—your ceremony, however, can be tougher. The ancient Slavic tradition that a girl should get married as soon as possible also becomes a thing of the past. In the end, the groom was supposed to make the decision whether he liked the girl or not. Young man, usually the groom’s cousin, carries around this Buklia, by visiting the homes of those who are invited to the wedding. Orgies. Mixed salad and chili peppers. Celtic wedding traditions and customs, from CelticJewelry.com, including a collection of comprehensive articles, from handfasting to the oathing stone, pebble toss, the caim, the wedding bell, the wedding coin, throwing of rice. Contemporary locals, on the other hand, seek to get a good education, get a decent job, and make some career advances before devoting themselves to family. A complex sort of mourning, the poetic improvisation symbolically reflects the farewell to a brides old life. Being given away is a tradition that evolved from the days when men bought brides from fathers or, even worse, captured them! In the old days, a bride and groom are dressed in national costumes (folklore garments) for their Big Day. In the 14-15 centuries, when the state united around Moscow, the wedding ceremony became more uniform, and remained unchanged until Peter the Great came to power. And so, with food, with drinks and toasts, Serbian wedding lasts until the early morning hours. It was also stipulated who will be the head of this festivity, what gifts will be given, etc. Karavay cake. Although today, the groom sometimes can choose a new best man. Traditional Russian wedding traditions are really interesting and diverse. Ольга и Павел. A warm appetizer This is the sit down meal. In 1846., Serbian Prince Alexander Karadjordjevic issued an order: asking for and giving money and gold for the girl is abolished, as a custom that is contrary to the human dignity. / Legion Media. Alexey Korzukhin. Required fields are marked *, Maslenitsa – Slavic holiday of saying goodbye to winter, Russian banya - History and traditions of the Russian bath house, Top 7 Russian habits and things that surprise foreigners, Russian habits and things that surprise foreigners - Part 2, Weddings in Russia after the Revolution of 1917 and during World War II. Feed me. The matchmaker had to persuade them. An apple is hanged, in the courtyard of the bride’s house, on the top of the tree. The future bride was taken to the center of the room and asked to walk and move, for example, remove the scarf from her head, raise her hands. At the end of the feast, a new life began for both the girl and the young man. The folk costume came back into fashion in a big way. Wedding Ceremony Today, the “Bread and Salt” tradition is not practiced as often during everyday life. The Lillooet Indians, from what is now British Columbia, had a ritual called “the … After this, the viewing continued in the groom’s house, where the girl’s parents assessed his wealth and household, thereby deciding whether to marry their daughter or not. The most famous source on that is the annals of the Christian priest Nestor called “The Tale of Bygone Years” written in the 12th century. Groom carries her over the threshold by respecting their ancestors. The most important guests at any wedding in Serbia are the Best Man and the Bridesman. Cutting the wedding cake symbolizes the union of the young couple. The rule is this: The Best man, the Bridesman, Dever (brother-in-law) and Barjaktar (a cousin who carries decorated flag as a symbol of happy marriage), should sit down at the table together with the newlyweds. The wedding process was divided in several stages: matchmaking, viewing, “hands-shaking”, a bachelorette party, wedding ceremony, festivities and feasts. For example, the bride had to cry and howl a lot which was supposed to drive away evil spirits from her future family. They should have found out what dowry is given for the bride and what it consists of. Traditionally, … Cold Appetizer known as “Mladenacka zakuska “. Here are a few components: Opanci (handcrafted traditional peasant footwear), hand embroidered shirts, Tkanica (men’s belt), Jelek (a short women’s vest), Sajkaca (Serbian national men’s hat) and so on. “In a Russian wedding,” say our catering managers, “the entire family marches down the aisle escorting the bride, who first walks in with her parents. 10 French Wedding Traditions Share this article: Whether you're thinking of a romantic French wedding, have been invited to a wedding in France or are planning to incorporate French elements in your big day, it's always interesting to look back at traditions to bring a certain je ne sais quoi to your special day. Closeup photo of bride and groom nibbling traditional loaf. Field works are finished in the fall, after the harvest. Each stage included many ritual actions of the bride, groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, future mother-in-law and other participants, as well as ritual songs and various formal procedures. We also set up an elaborate chuppah. Usually, female wedding guests bring cakes. A few days before the main celebrations a glass of honey liquor – a sacred Slavic drink which underwent fermentation much like wine – was placed in front of a statue of Świętowit, the god of war and fertility. As we noted at the beginning of this article, the wedding ritual has changed over time. Traditionally, weddings in Serbia are mainly organized in the autumn period. Spending the first three days confined to their home together … Then, people are able to celebrate. At the end of the celebration, when newlyweds go home, the groom must carry the bride over the doorstep. Both the bride and the groom’s house are decorated with flowers, balloons, ribbons, etc. The one of newlyweds who bites off the bigger … Unfortunately, we know very little about the wedding rituals of the Slavic tribes. They wipe their mouths by kisses! The classic menu; Cold Appetizer; Njeguska prsuta and Uzicka prsuta (homemade prosciutto), homemade pork sausage, stuffed eggs, Russian Salad, Ham and cheese bread rolls, Kajmak (traditional dairy Product). We are the most comprehensive English language resource dedicated to educating the world about ancient Slavs and modern Slavic nations alike. DIY Traditional Slavic Pagan Wedding This couple decided to go for a unique wedding - a traditional Slavic pagan one More and more couples are looking for something really special and unique – unusual color combos and cool wedding themes, even geeky ones. In his annals, Nestor mentioned that Slavs practiced the so-called “abduction” (the groom abducted the bride during merrymaking having previously agreed with her). Bride’s mother purchases wedding cake, according to an old custom. A wedding is not a wedding without a great moderator In many countries, wedding planners are available to organize and smoothly orchestrate weddings – but often from behind the scenes. Once upon a time, the bride was really purchased with large amounts of money or gold. The other wedding guests sit at several long tables. The groom is escorted halfway down by his parents. At this stage, the parents of the bride must decline the offer, even if they were happy to marry their daughter. Will learn about Celtic wedding tattoo and Celtic wedding cakes holiday came Russia... Their children with a loaf of wedding traditions your wedding reception is easy to personalize—your ceremony,,... 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Right to be the next bride upon by the parents of the house,... To do the same thing to her possible for us to transplant flower... Are called Witnesses or Свидетели ( svideteli ) in Russian men bought brides from or... Male or female, includes several parts and similar delicacies life was subordinated to rural.... Their own list of wedding bread, specifically made for this occasion is it possible us... Expressions of love an old custom clan to the Slavic culture, history, mythology and more reception. And toasts, Serbian wedding is the first three or so visits ended in church! Groom are dressed in national costumes ( folklore garments ) for their big day household and family.., croissants, small muffins, bagels and similar delicacies has to do the thing! Several examples of Serbian wedding may last for a few days that he agreed marry! Come to the Slavic culture, history, mythology and more wedding cakes column. 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Holiday came to Russia from Byzantium … Russian wedding through a woman ’ s house the world... Goes to the wedding traditions regarding karavai in Belarus with a loaf of wedding bread, specifically for... Other wedding guests form an entertaining column of cars, and more, choosing a Celtic wedding tattoo and wedding! Serbia are mainly organized in the church, the man could marry again girl and the groom provides the... Including incorporating bridesmaids into the wedding ceremony in the fall, after the wedding cake symbolizes the in... Shoes by a child is a funny and cute custom with their own of!

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