Understanding Filipino Weddings
By: Lesley-Ann Graham
If you’re getting married to a Filipino, there are a couple of things that you should know. Like the people themselves, their traditions are mixed. Most want to be married in church because of their religion, usually catholic or christian. They will also follow the dressed in white tradition and that the couple should not see each other before the wedding.
Filipinos tend to have extended family. Note that almost everyone is called tito or tita, even those not blood relatives. With that in mind, is it any surprise how many bridesmaids and godparents there are in their weddings? It is quite common to have more than 3 sets of anything in the entourage. It is a must for them that all immediate family be part of the ceremony, if at all possible, and no slight must be given. It is quite common to have your boss become a godparent because of this. Oh, and yes, the names of everyone in the entourage will be placed in an insert in the wedding invitation.
There is an interesting practice in certain regions of the Philippines with regards to the wedding dance. Traditionally, the couple takes their first turn on the floor together as the host encourages the guests to pin money on the clothes of the bride and groom (family and friends of the bride pin on the groom and vice versa). It is quite common for the host to turn it into a competition to see which side of the family will give more. They see this as a shower of blessings, for prosperity and to get the newly wedded couple off to a good financial start in their new life.
Expect to have a wonderful wedding of contrasts. If they have their way they’ll give you a solemn and heartfelt wedding ceremony followed by a fun-filled reception that you’ll remember all of your life with joy.
Lesley-Ann Graham runs WeddingTrix.com - a valuable wedding planning resource with articles, tips and advice to help you plan your perfect wedding. Visit Lesley-Ann’s wedding shop for some of the best wedding bargains on the Internet!