Weddings are universal celebrations of love, but each culture has its own way of celebrating. At Old North, we feel privileged to capture these unique traditions through our photography and films. From joyful music and symbolic rituals to vibrant attire and heartfelt family moments, every wedding tells a story rooted in history and culture.
We will explore some of the most beloved wedding customs around the world, traditions we’ve had the honor of documenting. Whether you’re planning your own celebration or simply love learning about wedding traditions in different cultures, these customs showcase the beauty of love expressed worldwide.
Jewish Weddings
Jewish weddings are rich in symbolism and community. A few highlights include:
The Chuppah – A canopy under which the couple stands, representing the home they will build together.
Signing the Ketubah – The couple signs the marriage contract before the ceremony, often in a private moment with family and witnesses, symbolizing their commitment and outlining mutual responsibilities.
Breaking of the Glass- At the end of the ceremony, the groom (and sometimes both partners) break a glass to symbolize the fragility of life and the commitment to stand together through joy and sorrow.
Hora Dance – A lively celebration where guests lift the couple on chairs while dancing in circles.
When we shoot jewish weddings, our favorite things to capture are the breaking of the glass and the hora dance – they are both such joy filled moments!
Indian Weddings
Indian weddings are often multi-day celebrations filled with vibrant color, music, and tradition. Some of the most recognized customs include:
Mehndi Ceremony – Intricate henna designs applied to the bride’s hands and feet, symbolizing joy and good fortune.
Saptapadi (Seven Steps) – Traditionally, the couple circles a sacred fire seven times, making vows at each step. In Westernized ceremonies, couples often incorporate the symbolic vows or circling ritual in a simplified format, blending cultural meaning with a format familiar to Western guests.
Vibrant Attire – The bride typically wears a richly colored sari or lehenga, while the groom may wear a sherwani. Traditionally, the bride wears red on her wedding day, but some brides wear a white sari to infuse Western tradition into their day.
At Old North, we specialize in capturing the fluidity of a Western-Indian fusion wedding day, while still understanding traditions and making sure that every ritual, smile, and heartfelt moment is documented beautifully.
Asian Weddings
Asian weddings are wonderfully diverse, reflecting centuries of culture, history, and regional traditions. From vibrant colors to intricate rituals, each ceremony is rich with symbolism and meaning.
Traditional Attire: Many couples incorporate cultural garments such as Chinese qipao, Korean hanbok, or Japanese kimono. These outfits are often brightly colored, embroidered beautifully, and carry a deep cultural significance.
Ceremonial Rituals:
Tea Ceremonies (common in Chinese and some Southeast Asian weddings) honor elders and express respect.
Purification rituals in Japanese weddings may include sake-sharing ceremonies, symbolizing unity and harmony.
Symbolism and Decor: Asian weddings often use symbolic colors and decorations. Red is considered lucky in many cultures, symbolizing joy and prosperity. Floral arrangements, lanterns, and ornate table settings reflect cultural heritage.
Modern Twists: Many couples blend traditional rituals with contemporary elements, from modern wedding dresses to incorporating Western-style receptions, creating a personalized celebration that honors both family heritage and individual stories.
At Old North, we love capturing the intricate details, emotions, and cultural richness of every wedding. Whether it’s a traditional cultural ceremony, or a blend of modern infused with cultural elements, we strive to tell each couple’s unique story through our lens.
