At the Château, we’re privileged to welcome brides and grooms from all walks of life. Every couple is unique, and every wedding deserves a personal touch of magic. How about spicing up your ceremony with unusual rituals from around the world that are symbolic, original and full of emotion? Here’s 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 consists of forming a circle of stones around the bride and groom at the time of the ceremony. Each stone represents a symbol: strength, family, wisdom, love, protection… This circle becomes a sacred space, a symbolic cocoon where the union takes place.

The water ritual – Japan

In Japan, there’s a ritual called San-san-kudo, which consists of drinking sake in three sips three times. Why not adapt this ritual with a symbolic drink for the two of you? This could become an intimate and solemn moment during the laic 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’s a ritual practiced in many cultures, including 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 take inspiration from this by lighting a candle together, or by each writing a note on a piece of paper to be symbolically burned during the ceremon.

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 painting ritual – United States

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

The Ritual of Light – Philippines

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

The union cord – Mexico

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

Why not create your own ritual?

You’re free to create a symbolic gesture that suits you: sealing a time capsule, writing letters to be opened in 10 years’ time, weaving links with ribbons…