At the Château, we have the privilege of welcoming brides and grooms from all walks of life. Every couple is unique, and every wedding deserves a touch of personal magic. Why not spice up your ceremony with unusual rituals from around the world, symbolic, original, and full of emotion? Here is a selection of unusual rituals from around the world to incorporate into your wedding to make it truly unforgettable.

The Stone Ritual – Western Europe

This ritual involves forming a circle of stones around the bride and groom during the ceremony. Each stone represents a symbol: strength, family, wisdom, love, protection, etc. This circle becomes a sacred space, a symbolic cocoon, and the union takes place.

The Water Ritual – Japan

In Japan, there is a ritual called San-san-kudo, which involves drinking sake in three gulps, three times. Why not adapt this ritual with a symbolic drink for both of you? This could become an intimate and solemn moment during the secular ceremony.

Planting a Tree – South Africa / Germany

A symbol of growth, rootedness, and shared life, planting a tree during the ceremony is a powerful gesture. It is a ritual practiced in several cultures, particularly in South Africa and Germany.

The Fire Ceremony – India

In Hindu weddings, the bride and groom circle a sacred fire to symbolize purity and transformation. You can draw inspiration from this by lighting a candle together, or by each writing a word on a piece of paper to symbolically burn during the ceremony.

The Salt Ritual – Japan & Eastern Europe

In many cultures, salt symbolizes purity, protection, and longevity. In Poland and Japan, salt is used in blessings or to seal a union.

The Ritual of Painting – United States

Very popular in American secular ceremonies, this ritual involves each person pouring a color onto a white canvas. The colors blend together to create a unique work: your first creation together.

The Ritual of Light – Philippines

In the Philippines, a unity candle is lit together to symbolize the fusion of two souls. It’s simple, visual, and very moving.

The Cord of Union – Mexico

At Mexican weddings, a lazo (cord) is placed around the bride and groom in the shape of a figure eight to symbolize infinity. This gesture can be performed by a loved one during the ceremony.

And why not… Create your own ritual?

You are free to create a symbolic gesture that reflects your personality: sealing a time capsule, writing letters to be opened in 10 years, weaving ties with ribbons, etc.