In Africa, a wedding is one of the most important and beloved rites of passage. Since African brides are considered to be the link between the past (ancestors) and future (generations yet to be born), they are held in highest regard. Many African American couples choose to incorporate their heritage into their weddings. Some opt for a traditional Yoruban ceremony complete with a priest while others choose to honor ancestors and their African homeland with a few cultural touches, blending African rituals with North American customs.
The first step in planning your African inspired wedding is to sit down with your fiance(e) and together decide on the type of wedding ceremony and reception you wish to have. Decide which African rituals and customs you want to incorporate into the wedding ceremony (ideas below). Also, decide if family and/or guests will participate in the ceremony rituals.
If you're not familiar with the elements of an African inspired wedding, consider consulting a wedding planner who is experienced in planning such weddings.
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Consider these ideas to set the tone of your African inspired wedding:
- Have your guests attend the wedding celebration in traditional African attire as they represent your "village".
- Order wedding invitations & stationery with an African theme.
- Honor parents, grandparents and other elders during the wedding ceremony with special readings, prayers, and/or libations.
- Incorporate African dishes into your wedding reception menu. Find a caterer who can create African dishes tailored to your needs.
- Locate dancers and drummers in your local area who can add cultural rhythms and music to the celebration. The African dancers can also come down the aisle just before the bride for a special entrance.
- Include the "jumping the broom" ritual at the end of the wedding ceremony. This ritual dates back to when slaves were forbidden to marry and performed this ritual to symbolize their union.
- As rituals are performed during the ceremony, ask your clergyperson to explain to guests the significance of each activity.
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In Africa, a wedding is one of the most important and beloved rites of passage. Since African brides are considered to be the link between the past (ancestors) and future (generations yet to be born), they are held in highest regard.