As a mature Christian couple from two different cultures with rich heritage, we wanted our wedding to represent the values and traditions that are important to both of us. Below are some of the key traditions we chose to highlight and emphasize the significance of our special day.

Reflections of Marital Wisdom

The Officiant's message about the sacredness of marriage within a Christian context holds great significance for the couple and those witnessing their union. By emphasizing biblical principles, the Officiant provides guidance and direction for a successful and God-honoring marriage. The reading of  relevant scripture passages underscores the importance of love, commitment, and mutual respect in a Christian marriage. This message helps set the tone for the ceremony and reminds the couple and guests of the spiritual foundation upon which their marriage is built.

Five Symbols of Love

La Biblia del Recuerda 

The Word as Our Focus

The presentation of La Biblia del Recuerda (Keepsake Bible) by an "Armorbearer" signifies the couple's shared commitment to honoring and centering the Word of God in their marriage. It serves as a tangible reminder of their dedication to building their relationship on the foundation of biblical principles. The Bible represents their commitment to seeking guidance and wisdom from God's teachings and to allowing His presence to manifest in their lives through the hands of those called to support them. The Keepsake Bible symbolizes the couple's desire to keep the Word at the core of their marriage, making it a guiding force in their decisions and actions as they journey together.

Las Arras Matrimoniales: 
Prosperity and Life in God

The giving of 13 coins, Las Arras Matrimoniales, is a Mexican wedding tradition where the groom pledges to provide for his family and the bride places her trust in him. The coins symbolize Jesus and his 12 apostles, representing the shared responsibilities of the couple and wishes for good fortune and prosperity in their marriage.

Las Arras, literally meaning "the earnest money," also signifies the "Earnest of the Spirit," a Biblical phrase that describes the Holy Spirit as a "down payment" or pledge guaranteeing a believer's future inheritance in Christ (Eph 1.13-14). This "deposit" assures believers of their salvation and the full inheritance to come in heaven. Importantly, it implies that the Holy Spirit can manifest divine blessings in the couple's lives directly and through the hands of those called to support them.

Vows

Our Promises

The vows, which represent the blending of two rich cultural traditions, take on even deeper significance as they demonstrate to all in attendance that we are purposefully honoring and blending both cultures. They serve as a symbol of unity, respect, and the founding of a new family that honors both heritages, representing not only the couple's commitment to each other but also the blending of two rich cultural traditions.

Rings

Love Made Tangible

The exchange of rings symbolizes the couple's eternal love, commitment, and fidelity. The rings represent a covenant, unity, and eternity. They also signify the sanctity of marriage and the couple's love for each other.

El Lazo

Binding Hearts Together 

The Lazo Ceremony, a Mexican wedding tradition, symbolizes a couple's commitment. A lasso, often made of ornate materials, is looped around their shoulders after exchanging rings, representing their eternal bond and shared journey.

Communion: 

Sacrifice and Unity

Communion in a Christian wedding ceremony symbolizes spiritual unity and commitment to Christ. The couple and guests partake in bread and wine, representing Christ's body and blood, signifying their willingness to receive Christ's grace and forgiveness. It also serves as a reminder of Christ's sacrificial love and covenant. Communion fosters a sense of community and fellowship, celebrating love and joy.

The DJ: Setting the Vibe

DJs can create a lively atmosphere, keeping guests entertained and dancing by reading the crowd and adjusting the music. They often MC, making announcements and introducing the wedding party. Their vast music libraries cater to diverse tastes.

Mariachi Music: 

The Spirit of Celebration 

Mariachi bands, with their vibrant charro suits and lively music, are a staple in Mexican weddings. Their performances, often during cocktail hour or reception, create a festive atmosphere. The bands typically play a mix of romantic ballads, classic love songs, and upbeat tunes, all while reflecting Mexican heritage and tradition.

Recessional of Lights:

 A Festive Exit

The Recessional of Lights is a festive way to end the wedding ceremony. Guests create a pathway with light sticks for the couple to walk through as they exit. The light sticks can be battery-operated or glow sticks, and are often given to guests as they arrive. As the couple walks through, guests wave their light sticks and cheer, creating a joyous send-off.

Besides, who wants to clean rice out of their hair?