6 Quirky Serbian Wedding Traditions
Serbian weddings have a rich history, rooted in the country’s farming communities. Over time, some traditions have faded away, but many remain vibrant and entertaining to this day. The following customs continue to be an integral part of Serbian wedding celebrations.
The flag bearer sets the tone by leading the wedding party with pomp and circumstance. In another tradition, the groom must attempt to shoot down an apple from a great height – a test of his skills and good luck for the marriage.
Meanwhile, the best man takes on a more practical role, ‘purchasing’ the bride as a symbol of her new status.
Brides often carry mirrors and adorn themselves with garlic, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. The godfather plays a key role by showering coins at the crowd, a gesture of generosity and blessings for the newlyweds. Finally, the bride’s shoe is stolen and held for ransom – a light-hearted way to add some excitement to the proceedings.
If you’ve never had the opportunity to attend a Serbian wedding, these six unique customs are sure to pique your interest (and maybe even inspire some FOMO).
A Flag Bearer Has To Lead The Wedding Party
When a wedding party embarks on a journey together, a Barjaktar (flag bearer) takes the lead. This tradition applies to any occasion where the group is walking in unison, including the procession into the church and the reception. The presence of a flag bearer adds an air of grandeur and formality to these special moments.
The Best Man Has To “Buy” The Bride
Brides Carry Mirrors and Wear Garlic
Superstitions surrounding weddings have led to the creation of various rituals and practices aimed at ensuring good fortune on the big day. For instance, some brides opt for a quirky yet practical approach by carrying small mirrors with them. This seemingly innocuous act is actually rooted in an ancient belief that certain demons are terrified of their own reflections. By having a mirror nearby, the bride can supposedly ward off these mischievous entities and set the tone for a harmonious union.
In addition to this unusual yet effective method, some brides also employ a more pungent strategy to safeguard against bad luck. As they prepare to walk down the aisle, a clove of garlic is carefully placed on their chest – a symbol of protection and purity. Meanwhile, the groomsmen partake in a similar ritual by enjoying a drink (or two) before the ceremony begins.
These peculiar customs may raise eyebrows, but for many couples, they serve as a light-hearted way to acknowledge the supernatural forces that surround their special day.
The Godfather Throws Coins At The Crowd
The Bride’s Shoe Is Stolen And Held For Ransom
As the wedding reception reached its energetic peak, a mischievous twist unfolded. The bride’s shoe mysteriously vanished, only to reappear on stage with the ‘thief’ proclaiming they were holding it hostage for ransom. The motivation behind this bold move? To put an abrupt end to the bride’s dancing, thereby silencing the entire party. Undeterred, the thief began collecting contributions from delighted guests to meet their demands.
Once the target was reached, both the shoe and the collected funds were returned to their rightful owner, bringing a unique and unforgettable touch to the celebration.
