Croatian Weddings: Everything You Need to Know!
When it comes to weddings, Croatians know how to throw a party like no other. Unlike North American weddings, Croatian weddings are not limited to a single day. Instead, they are multi-day affairs filled with rich traditions, heartfelt ceremonies, and lively celebrations that bring families and communities together. Let's take a closer look at the enchanting world of Croatian weddings.
Days before the actual wedding ceremony, a beautiful tradition begins. It is customary for the groom's and bride's families to visit each other's homes, forging bonds and building anticipation for the upcoming festivities. This pre-wedding ritual sets the stage for the joyous celebrations that are to come.
Important Roles
A kuma, or maid of honour, takes on a crucial role in the Croatian wedding preparations. She stands by the bride's side, assisting her with all the wedding arrangements, ensuring that everything is perfect for the big day. Meanwhile, the kum, or best man, takes charge of creating a joyful atmosphere and entertaining the guests, making sure everyone is having a great time.
An iconic figure in Croatian weddings is the barjaktar, the flag carrier. This energetic individual, often a close friend or relative of the groom, proudly waves the Croatian flag throughout the entire day. Holding a bottle of rakija or other strong liquor, the barjaktar spreads cheer by offering drinks to guests. This role embodies the spirit of entertainment and serves as a symbol of pride and celebration.
CROATIAN WEDDING FILMS
The Wedding Day
The festivities truly begin on the wedding day, with the groom's guests gathering at his home. The kum, barjaktar, the groom's closest friends, and family raise a toast and celebrate, setting the tone for the day's events.
The groom's family and friends play a vital role in creating a memorable wedding experience. They prepare a sumptuous feast of traditional Croatian food and drinks, tantalizing the taste buds of the guests. Homemade rakija, a strong Croatian liquor, is sure to make an appearance, but one must be mindful not to indulge too much, as the day and night are still ahead, brimming with festivities.
The Tamburaši and Barjaktar
The enchanting sounds of the tamburaši, a Croatian traditional band, fill the air, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration. This band, composed of talented musicians playing tamburica, acoustic traditional guitars, a double bass, and a button accordion, sets the stage for emotional renditions of Croatian traditional songs. Guests join in, singing and dancing, reveling in the lively ambiance and embracing a touch of festive euphoria
When the time comes, the wedding party embarks on a captivating journey to the bride's house. As the wedding party moves from one location to the next, the barjaktar keeps the energy high, encouraging everyone to sing, dance, and shout along. If the party travels by car, the barjaktar, leading the way, leans out of the window, proudly waving the Croatian flag for all to see, while others in the motorcade honk their horns, creating a boisterous procession that announces to the entire town that a joyous wedding celebration is taking place.
The Buying of the Bride
Upon reaching the bride's house, the groom takes the lead and knocks on her door. A playful negotiation ensues between the groom and the bride's father, determining whether the groom will be granted permission to marry his beloved. The kum, ever the loyal companion, may lend a helping hand in this important moment. If the negotiations don't satisfy the bride's father, he may send out a "fake bride" to test the groom's determination. The fake bride is usually a male family member dressed up or even a rugged doll dressed in a wedding gown. This amusing display adds an element of surprise and entertainment to the proceedings, captivating everyone present.
Finally, the moment arrives when the bride, adorned in her exquisite wedding gown, makes her grand entrance. The groom's eyes meet hers for the first time that day, and it is a sight to behold. In Croatia, it is considered bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the wedding, so this moment is filled with anticipation and awe. The tamburaši continue to play, setting the musical backdrop for an evening of revelry and delight.
CROATIAN PHOTO GALLERIES
The bride's family also plays a significant role in the celebration. They prepare delectable dishes and beverages, ensuring that no guest leaves to the ceremony with an empty stomach. Their home is adorned with vibrant flowers, balloons, and traditional decorations, creating a visually stunning backdrop for the festivities. Bridesmaids contribute to the warm hospitality by attaching small branches of rosemary to guests' clothes or presenting them as bracelets, a cherished tradition that dates back to ancient times. It is believed that this gesture brings good luck and wards off evil spirits.
Croatian Wedding Ceremony and Traditions
In the sacred embrace of a Catholic church, the heart of Croatian wedding ceremonies beats with timeless traditions and profound spirituality. From the hallowed halls of Croatian Martyrs Parish to the serene sanctity of Norval Queen of Peace, each church, including Holy Cross Croatian Parish Hall and Holy Trinity Croatian Catholic Parish, becomes a haven for the union of souls. Amidst the echoing hymns and the scent of burning candles, the couple partakes in a distinctive ritual, the riza (rice) ceremony. Here, the conventional act of guests showering rice upon the newlyweds takes a uniquely Croatian twist. Instead, the couple tosses a handful of rice over themselves as they exit. In modern weddings, some couples choose flowers or bubbles instead of the traditional rice in their hair. Regardless of whether it's rice, flowers, or bubbles, this ritual symbolizes the couple's commitment to a life of happiness and shared joys.
Following the ceremony, a heartfelt moment unfolds outside the church as guests form a row, eagerly waiting to congratulate the newlyweds as they exit. The air is filled with warmth and genuine joy as well-wishers express their congratulations by saying čestitam.
Croatian Wedding Reception
The celebration continues into the night with a lavish reception, featuring a succession of tantalizing traditional dishes that delight the senses. The guest list for a Croatian wedding can be extensive, encompassing relatives, friends, and colleagues, as families take great pleasure in sharing this special occasion with those near and dear to them. We have captured some Croatian weddings at Father Kamber Croatian Parish Park, Croatian Park, Croatian Club Karlovac and Croatian Sports and Community Centre of Hamilton.
No one parties like the Croatians!
No Croatian wedding is complete without the lively and energetic Kolo dance. In a spirited display of unity, guests of all ages join hands, forming a circle, and move in synchronized steps to the captivating rhythm of the music. Led by an experienced dancer or musician, the Kolo dance serves as a centerpiece of the celebration, bringing people together on the dance floor to partake in the joyous traditions of the culture.
Croatian weddings are not merely ceremonies; they are reflections of a rich cultural heritage. With elaborate feasts, traditional music, and cherished customs, each celebration pays homage to the importance of love, commitment, and family. Attending a Croatian wedding is an immersive experience, where guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth, laughter, and cherished memories.
So, if you ever have the opportunity to be a part of a Croatian wedding, embrace the traditions, savour the flavours, dance with abandon, and immerse yourself in the joyous celebration of love and unity. A Croatian wedding is a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of cultural traditions.