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9 French Wedding Traditions

A white wedding ceremony set up in Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the background.

Mon dieu! Did you know that brides wearing a white gown on the wedding day is one of many customs that began in France? Or that the traditional bridal hope chest, otherwise known as the “trousseau” in French, also originated in France? They are just two French wedding traditions that are still used today and have been adopted into North American weddings. If you’re obsessed with all things French and are curious about incorporating more French wedding traditions into your special day, you might want to learn more about romantic French wedding traditions that definitely have that je ne sais quoi factor. Below are some of our favorite French wedding traditions?prepare to be inspired!

1. The bride isn’t the star of the show

There are no bridezillas at a French wedding. Instead, the big day is seen as a celebration for the union of the two families. Similarly, the groom is looked upon as having an equal role in the festivities. For example, when the bride receives an engagement ring from her beloved, she typically gives him a watch in return. Additionally, it’s custom for the bride and groom to have an equal number of groom and bride witnesses. So, basically, a French wedding is truly a symbol of union between both the bride and groom equally.

2. The wedding procession

Traditionally, the groom picks up his bride on the morning of their wedding ceremony. The procession is led by musicians followed by the bride with her father. On the way to the church, children block the path of the procession with white ribbons, stretching them across the road. It’s up to the bride to cut the ribbons as she passes through, proving that she’s ready to overcome any challenges married life might throw at her.

3. La Mairie

A French couple getting married.similar to a flower girl and ring bearer.

5. The entrance

The inside of a church set up for a European wedding. 9 French Wedding Traditions appeared first on Weddingbee.

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