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Polish Wedding Traditions


Serving of Wine and Salted Bread

Following the ceremony, upon entering the reception hall, the mothers of the bride and groom greet the bridal party and they are served a glass of wine and a piece of salted bread.  This signifies a wish that the bride and groom never know hunger or thirst and share a life spiced with happiness.

Removing the Bridal Veil
Two special people, chosen by the bride and groom, stand behind the couple and lead the guests in the singing of a Polish Hymn (Serdeczna Matko) to the Blessed Mother of God.  This, in essence, is the supplication of Our Lady to guide the new bride in the ways of a loving wife.

Serdeczna Matko, Opiekunko ludzi,
Niech cie placz sierot do litosci wzbudzi;
Wygnancy Ewy, do Ciebie wolamy,
Zmiluj sie zmiluj, niech sie nie tulamy.
Dearest Mother, Protectress of the faithful
Let the tears of your children move you to compassion;
We, the banished children of Eve, implore you,
Have mercy, do not let us wander, have mercy.

The orchestra plays a happy tune and the guests tap their silverware, while the bride's veil is removed and replaced by a small lace czypek (chi-pek).  A string of tiny dolls tied with pink and blue ribbons are placed around the groom's neck and a bright, funny hat is placed on his head.  The significance of this custom is that the bride now sheds her maidenhood and assumes the responsibilities of marriage.  The dolls are a wish the couple have many, happy, healthy children and the hat, a wish that they will share much laughter and happiness in their marriage.

Small Dance
The father of the bride dances his daughter into a circle formed by the guest.  A relative holds an apron into which everyone claiming a dance with the bride throws money.  At the conclusion of this dance, the groom enters the circle, throws his wallet into the apron and claims his wife forever.  He picks her up in his arms and carries her off the floor - to live happily ever after.

Verseit.com

A selection of verse ideas, etiquette guidelines and tips.  A thank you guide, addressing guide and mailing information.  A special section on accenting with ribbon, classic bows and ribbon ends.  Take time and explore the site, enjoy the excitement of planning your special occasion!