Filipino Weddings

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   The Philippines is a country rich in traditions that were originally introduced by Spanish missionaries. A few of these Spanish-influenced customs are ever-present in a typical Filipino wedding.

   Usually, the bride wears the traditional all-white wedding gown and the groom is handsomely clad in the traditional barong. The barong is a transparent button-up shirt that is usually worn by the Filipino man during special gatherings. At a traditional Filipino wedding, many sponsors are present to witness the union of the couple. The sponsors symbolize guidance and support - a group of individuals that the couple can refer to in time of need.

   While some of the sponsors have a "silent" participation during the wedding ceremony, two sets of sponsors play active roles. The first set of sponsors play the role of veil sponsors. The veil sponsors usually consist of one man and one woman - perhaps one from each side of the family. During a specific point in the ceremony, the veil sponsors carefully pin a large veil on top of the bride's head and onto the shoulder of the groom. The veil symbolizes unity and that the couple shall be "clothed as one." The other set of sponsors are called the cord sponsors. After the veil is placed on both the bride and groom, the cord sponsors place a white cord loosely around the necks of the couple in a "figure eight" configuration. The cord symbolizes the lifelong bond or tie between the bride and groom.

   On either side of the unity candle is a long stemmed candle. Both sets of parents light their respective candle. When it comes time for the wedding couple to light the unity candle, the couple will light it with the candles that were lit by both sets of parents. This symbolizes the union of these two families through the love and lifelong bond of their children. Another strongly-held tradition is the arras which translated into Spanish means "earnest money." The priest drops coins onto the hands of both the bride and groom symbolizing a life of fidelity and wealth.

   The veil, cord, candle and arras are four traditions routinely witnessed during a Filipino wedding. Filipinos feel strongly about their heritage and actively incorporate their traditions into their weddings.

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