A nation with a people as diverse and friendly as its geography is large, Canada blends its English, French, and American influences into something that's more than the sum of those very different parts.
Maybe more than anything, Canadians enjoy a good party. The wedding is always a reason to celebrate, especially given their culture's charming and unusual customs.
Customs before the wedding
Canadians have an uncommonly clever way of raising money for an upcoming marriage - they just threw a fundraiser and invited all their friends to spend! These parties are known as a "stag and doe" or "buck and doe" in Ontario, while in wild Manitoba they're known simply as a "social."
The rules are pretty simple. The young couple rents a venue such as a Knights of Columbus hall, usually at a special discount. They sell tickets to the dance and feature a cash bar inside. Their friends and relatives show up and have a good time while contributing to the wedding "war chest."
Another pre-wedding tradition, somewhat antiquated now, was the "trousseau tea," where a wedding planner (such as the bride's mother) would hold a special luncheon for those acquaintances and relations not invited to the actual wedding. The hostess would often serve light pastries and snacks, known as "dainties." The bride's hope chest items, such as the trousseau of her wedding dress, were put on display.
The wedding ceremony
Canadian newlywed couples in small towns get their own parade! The bride and groom will often ride to the new church in a motorcade, accompanied by all their family and wedding guests. As they go through the town, bystanders clap and cheer them on, wishing them good luck and offering good-natured teasing. When the motorcade arrives, the entire wedding celebration enters the church together.
The wedding reception
Canadian wedding receptions sometimes include a "sock dance" performed by the brothers and sisters of the bride and groom. The dancers wear the most tacky or elaborate socks they can find or make, then dance a crazy jig to a ridiculous song. The other guests throw money at the dancer, which the newlywed couple then gets to keep.
In some parts of Manitoba, a traditional Ukrainian dance called "the butterfly" is still performed. Trios of dancers alternate between moving rapidly and gently promenading across the dance floor.
Some receptions are listed on the wedding invitations as "presentation only." This means the newlywed couple prefers monetary donations rather than gifts. The couple will use the money as a down payment on a house or to purchase their own household items.
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About the Author: Michael Kabel is a Senior Writer for My Wedding Favors at http://www.myweddingfavors.com. For more information on great unique baby gift ideas and more articles like this one, visit the website today.
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