A look into traditional Austrian wedding customs
What's the story
Austrian weddings are a rich tapestry of traditions and customs, each woven with the threads of the nation's culture and heritage over the centuries. These ceremonies are not merely a celebration of two people coming together but a vibrant showcase of Austrian culture. Each tradition, from the pre-wedding rituals to the post-wedding festivities, adds a unique color to the palette of the wedding ceremony, making Austrian weddings truly magical experiences.
Pre-wedding fun
The polterabend: A night of shattered porcelain
The polterabend is a casual pre-wedding party hosted at the bride's house, where guests come armed with porcelain for smashing. This tradition is all about good luck for the couple's marriage. The loud noise of shattering porcelain is supposed to scare off evil spirits. And, there's a twist. Once everyone's done breaking stuff, the bride and groom have to clean up the mess together. This symbolizes their teamwork.
Bridal elegance
The bridal crown: Symbolizing purity and unity
In Austrian countryside, a bride traditionally dons a Myrtle crown on her wedding day. This fragile headpiece symbolizes purity and love. And, during the ceremony, as the couple recites their vows, they also walk through a Myrtle archway, signifying their entrance into a new life together. This tradition highlights the values of purity and unity in Austrian wedding customs.
Personal touch
The Hochzeitslader: A unique invitation
Rather than sending impersonal invites, certain Austrian couples employ a hochzeitslader - a person responsible for personally inviting guests to their wedding. This individual, attired in traditional clothing, goes to each guest's residence with a decorative staff or baton, representing authority and respect. This way, each invite is extended with warmth and sincerity.
Veil tradition
Midnight veil dance: A transition ritual
One of the most emotional moments at an Austrian wedding reception occurs at midnight when the bride's female relatives ceremoniously remove her veil during a special dance called the Schleiertanz. This symbolic act marks her passage from maidenhood to matrimony. Following this, the relatives or friends may auction off pieces of the veil as good luck charms. People keep dancing till the wee hours.
Reception rituals
Agape: Celebrating with bread and salt
The ancient Christian tradition of agape is still alive in Austrian weddings, where bread and salt are distributed to guests following vows or during the reception celebration. These tokens, symbolizing prosperity, health, and longevity in marriage, serve as well-wishes for a life of abundance and wellness for the newly-married couple.