The African American wedding is not your average
wedding; it still carries the African traditions and heritage
into the wedding ceremony and all other wedding events. Some
features are however typical of the all American wedding but the
African American wedding has distinct features that are hard to
miss.
The wedding reception is usually an elaborate, radiant and
spectacular affair where the bride and the groom are formally
received for the first time as husband and wife by their friends
and family. It is mostly a very glamorous affair. When planning
their wedding reception, couples should not only consider their
personal styles and preferences but they should also think about
the possibilities of making their reception memorable and should
leave a legacy if possible.
Color is what sets apart an African American wedding from other
weddings. The best ways to portray this heritage is in the
wedding dresses and in the decorations used at the reception.
Colors that spark interest and nostalgia are the biggest trends
now. Choose colors that will dazzle your guests. The color white
is standard in all weddings. Choosing white that has a shimmering
effect for your decorations will give a finished look to your
wedding and will be heralded as a sign of respect for
tradition.
The centerpiece is an integral part of any wedding. Ii was holds
down the wedding and is usually placed in the centre of a
reception hall. What the centerpiece will be remains the
prerogative of the bride and groom. They decide what message they
want to convey. More and more couples are choosing ice sculptures
as centerpieces for their receptions. On wedding tables,
centerpieces can be in the form of flower arrangements or the
wedding favors that the guests are to take away with them.
The jumping over the broom ceremony is found in almost all
African American weddings; it is a distinguishing factor. It is a
tradition that originated from African American slaves and is a
symbol that the newly weds are sweeping bad luck and unhappiness
away as well as leaping together into married life. This ceremony
is sometimes performed at the wedding reception so as to retain
the purity of the wedding ceremony itself. As a symbol to signify
families of both the bride and the groom, it is suggested that
ribbons are tied around the broom handle. The actual action of
jumping over the broom can be done at any point during the
reception. It is up to the bride and the groom and their wedding
planner to decide. A good time though is just before cutting the
wedding cake.
The wedding favor is of great and special importance in an
African American wedding. Guests at these weddings are
responsible for their transport expenses, therefore giving them a
favor as an appreciation for attending the wedding makes the trip
worth it. Whatever the wedding favor, it should represent the
faith of the new couple and their appreciation to their guests.
Favors are usually placed as part of centerpieces or at a table
on the doors of the venue and each guest receive one as they
leave.
Jason Hennessey is the President of 1weddingsource.com, a
wedding
planning site, a home to all of your bridal and wedding
needs. In this site you can also found a unique
wedding
reception ideas, that make your special day
unique.