Canadian Wedding Traditions

My best friend is a Canadian-born American. He has been taking me to the Great country for years. I have had the opportunity to discuss the traditions and customs involved in a Canadian Wedding and am truly honored to pass them along here.

Canadian blends deep influences from England, France and America into a truly spectacular image. Canadians enjoy celebrations and none more than the joining of two people into man and wife.

Pre-Wedding

It is customary and traditional to have a fundraising party. Where all of your friends are invited and told to spend money. The young couple will rent a venue such as a Knights of Columbus hall, customarily at a discount. They sell tickets to the dance and have a cash bar. The family and friends come to have a good time and contribute to the Wedding fund.

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 Ceremony

Canadian newlywed's in small towns will receive their own parade down main street. This fun experience is has the bride and groom riding as part of a motorcade with family and friends in tow. When the motorcade arrives, everyone enters the church as a big group.

The Reception

Commonly a "sock dance" performed by the brothers and sisters of the bride and groom takes center stage. The dancers wear the most elaborate and tacky socks they can find (or in some cases make), then they perform a hilarious jig to a unique song. The audience throws money at the dancers and the newlyweds get to keep it.

When invited to a "presentation only" reception, it is expected that monetary gifts will be received, instead of traditional gifts. This is usually the nest egg in which the couple will put a down payment on their first home.

Other traditions vary and are always being revised. The most important thing to remember is how truly blessed the newlyweds feel when not just family but entire towns come to wish them well. Canadians don't just know how to party, they also know how to welcome friends.

--Mickey

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