Mexican Weddings: The Ceremony

Considering the deeply religious and spiritual background that significantly influence Mexican culture, marriage is viewed as a deep and unbreakable bond between the couple. From this belief stem various customs that take place during the wedding ceremony. Breathtaking locations abound in Mexico, which set the background for a uniquely spiritual and beautiful wedding ceremony.

Though the majority of Mexican wedding ceremonies take place during a Catholic Mass, the beautiful cultural rituals that accompany the service can be adapted to any ceremony.

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First is the tradition of el Lazo, or the Lasso. The lazo is a double rosary, or a white cord as another option, in the shape of a figure eight. It is placed over the couple’s shoulders directly after their vows by the chosen padrinos as a symbol of their union in love and trust, and remains there for the rest of the ceremony.

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Another custom is the exchange of the Arras, thirteen golden coins contained in a box or pouch. The groom will present the arras to the bride as a symbol of him giving her all his wealth and material possessions, and confidence in her.  The bride accepts them, ready to manage the responsibilities of marriage wisely and take care of her groom.

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During Catholic wedding ceremonies, the couple will often present flowers to the Virgin Mary and pray for her intercession throughout their marriage. This customs stems from Mexico’s long devotion to the Virgin of Guadalupe.

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Another ceremony option is to include Mayan traditions. The Mayan wedding ceremony is performed by a shaman in front of an altar with points facing in all four directions. The shaman will welcome guests during a purification ritual using Copal, a plant typically used by the Mayans as incense. The couple then will walk up to the altar, barefoot and in light clothing made of natural materials, share their vows, asking for blessing upon their marriage from Mother Earth and Cosmic Energy.

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These traditions are wonderful ways of incorporating Mexican customs and adding symbolic flair to your wedding ceremony!

Mexican Weddings: Padrinos Tradition

Weddings in Mexico are communal events that celebrate not only the love of husband and wife, but also the newly-created union between their families. The family plays a pivotal part in the life of the couple reaches far before they ever set foot at the altar. They guide and encourage them throughout their courtship and usually take important roles in the wedding… as well as celebrate the marriage with gusto!

Photo by Di-Lanattas Photography

One way to incorporate the family is by having padrinos, or godparents/sponsors, who take on the responsibility of providing different elements of the wedding, such as the bridal bouquet, lazo and arras (which will be explained in a later post), or even parts of the reception- further making it a communal celebration.

Photo by Di-Lanattas Photography

The most important padrinos are called Padrinos de Velación, who usually help cover the cost of the ceremony spot. What makes the honor so great is that they act as the witnesses, taking the place of a maid of honor and best man. They are usually a married couple who guide the bride and groom with wisdom through their own example.

The role of padrinos is a great honor and just one of many wonderful ways to involve family and friends in your special day!

Jimmy Choo Spring 2012 Collection

A stylish shoe and handbag can make or break an outfit, which is why you’d be in good hands with the Jimmy Choo Spring 2012 Collection! We think any stylish fashionista will go crazy over the bold colors and prints in this 2012 collection of clutches, stilettos, and chic handbags. 

These are just SOME of what the talented designers at Jimmy Choo had to offer. There’s something for everyone–brides, career gals, and the everyday trendsetter. The beading and glitter details on the flats and special occasion heels are delicate and intricate. You’ll really love the tribal/boho chic trend with the basket weave clutch and fringe bag (paired with red skinny jeans/pants, and a flowy blouse.. so chic!) Let’s not forget about THE stiletto in the bottom right corner! It’s the perfect shoe for the brave risk-taker who wants to turn heads.

All photos borrowed from Vogue.com

Tangerine Tuesday Inspiration Board

Orange is a hot color for this season’s fashion trends! Although we’ve always been partial to this color, we just can’t get over how tangerine and coral are everywhere. We put together this cute inspiration board for you to see how you can use different shades of orange, tangerine, and coral in your fashion wardrobe and wedding theme. Gone are the days of associating orange with Halloween, and hello to vibrant, lush shades of salmon, apricot, and grapefruit!

{Invitation, Tangerine Drink, Earrings, Chevron Rug, Dress, Cookies, Pillow}

It’s easy to mix this color into your home decor, accessories, and wedding details. We especially love the rug–orange and chevron stripes, two of the hottest trends we’re spotting for 2012.

Lucky Hour: St. Patrick’s Day Drinks

Happy Hump Day! To get you in the Irish mood, we’re going to share our favorite green drinks in honor of St. Patrick’s Day Did you know St. Patrick’s Day started out as a celebration of the introduction of Christianity in Ireland? Traditionally, the day was celebrated by going to church, wearing green, and ending any Lent restrictions previously made. Another little known fact: St. Patrick’s Day used to be associated with the color blue, and then later on green.

However you choose to celebrate this popular holiday, remember to wear green and get lucky!

{Image from Biggest Menu}

Our Creative Manager’s favorite: The delicious Scooby Snack Shot! Famously named after Scooby’s favorite snack from classic cartoon series, “Scooby Doo, Where Are You!” The Scooby Snack Shot has a coconut taste and is great for those who don’t traditionally drink. Its green color comes from the use of Midori Melon Liqeur.

Scooby Snack recipe

Pour rum, creme de banane, melon liqueur and pineapple juice into a stainless steel shaker over ice. Add whipped cream, and shake; until well mixed and sufficiently chilled. Strain into an old-fashioned glass and shoot.