1. The Blackening of the Bride
In Scotland, there is a particularly nasty pre-wedding tradition that involves the bride and groom being pelted with food trash, including rotten eggs and fish. The Scots believe that if a couple can withstand this, their marriage can withstand anything.
Source: www.emlii.com
2. The Bridesmaid Blockade
In China, when a groom comes to get his bride, he must first break through an aggressive wall of her angry bridesmaids. The bridesmaids demand money from him, and put him through a series of silly performances and tasks – all meant to prove just how strong his love really is.
Source: Ekon Wont
3. The Cursed, Tree-Marrying Wives of India
In some parts of India, it is said that girls born during a certain astrological period are cursed, and will cause an early death for their husband. The only way to break the curse is for the woman to first marry a tree, and then have the tree cut down.
Source: www.emlii.com
4. The Museum of Broken Relationships
In Zagreb, Croatia, there is a museum that showcases a collection of souvenirs, mementos, and paraphernalia left behind after a marriage has failed.
Source: www.emlii.com
5. Preplanned Crying
Starting one whole month in advance the bride starts to cry for 1 hour every day. Ten days into the ordeal the mom joins the picture, and then ten days after that, her grandmother. By the end of the month every female in the family is crying alongside the bride. This is thought to be an expression of joy as the women cry in different tones.
Source: www.hellomagazine.com
6. The Gerewol Festival for the Ladies
In Niger, men have to dress in elaborate costumes and perform for their potential mates. When the performance is over, the women get to choose the man they like best.
Source: www.lonelyplanet.com
7. The Doll Bride
In Puerto Rico, a doll dressed as the bride is placed at the head of the table during the wedding reception, surrounded by charms and gifts. At the end of the reception, the guests receive these trinkets as a show of appreciation.
Source: www.pinterest.com
