1- SAMOA
In Samoa, a young husband's wedding night can culminate in violent beatings. As per tradition, the newlyweds are obliged to spend the night in the wife's residence, which is often crowded with her relatives. It is crucial that the night of intimacy transpires in absolute silence to avoid disturbing anyone. Failure to maintain this silence may result in enraged family members physically assaulting the new spouse. To endure these beatings, the groom prepares himself by applying palm oil to his body the night before, as it is believed to alleviate the pain of the blows.
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2- Central Africa
In Central Africa, specifically among the Bahutu tribe residing in Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda, a wedding custom involving ritual fights is observed. On their wedding night, young couples do not partake in acts of love.
Instead, they spend every night of the first week of their married life engaging in fights. In the daytime, the young wife returns to her parents' home, only to reunite with her husband in the evening for another round of combat. The objective of these battles is to conclude in peace, symbolizing the beginning of a harmonious and joyful life together.
It is believed that through these fights, the couple releases all their pent-up aggression towards each other. Once no grudges remain, they can commence their life together in unity.
3- Macedonia
The wedding custom known as the "Battle of the Boots" in Macedonia involves a unique tradition. On the first night of their wedding, the newlyweds are locked inside a basement. In one corner of the room, a hat and a pair of boots are placed, and once locked in, the newlyweds engage in a playful battle to claim these simple trophies. It is believed that if the wife manages to take her husband's hat, it signifies a happy marriage for her. On the other hand, if she secures the boots first, it is said that her husband will be under her influence for the rest of their lives. When the couple is eventually released from the basement, it becomes evident who will hold the dominant role in the family.
4- India
In India, a fascinating custom still persists. During the first three nights following the wedding, the newlyweds are generally prohibited from engaging in intimate relations. Instead, a special stick made of udumbara wood, which is considered a symbol of female fertility, is placed on the bed between the couple. The stick is adorned with sandalwood paste and wrapped in cloth. Only on the fourth night, when the udumbara stick is removed from the marital bed, are the newlyweds allowed to fulfill their marital duties. It is believed that failing to adhere to this tradition may anger the guardian gods of the young wife, potentially leading to the couple being unable to have children.
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5- Japan
In Japan, couples spend their wedding night in special houses located on secluded islands. The path leading to the bridal bungalow is adorned with flower petals. Upon entering the house, the newlyweds partake in special ceremonies. They begin by feeding each other, symbolizing their commitment to nourishing and caring for one another. They then exchange gifts, with the wife giving her husband a richly decorated sword, signifying his role as the protector of the family. In return, the husband presents his wife with a piece of red silk fabric, which he immediately cuts into two pieces using the sword. The larger piece is incorporated into the wife's dress, while the smaller piece is kept for the attire of their future first-born child. Only after following all these traditions do the newlyweds finally consummate their marriage.
6- Germany
In Germany, there is a unique tradition called Baumstamm Sägen, in which the bride and groom wield chainsaws instead of conventional tools. This tradition involves the couple working together to saw a log into two pieces. By undertaking this task as a team, Baumstamm Sägen symbolizes the strength and unity of the newlyweds as they confront the challenges that come with marriage.
7- Romania
In Romania, there is a unique tradition where the bride's supposed disappearance before the wedding does not indicate cold feet. On the contrary, it is customary for friends and family to "kidnap" the bride as part of a playful role-play scenario. To reunite with his bride, the groom must then pay a symbolic ransom, which can be accomplished through romantic gestures or by filling her glass with champagne. This tradition adds an element of fun and anticipation to the wedding festivities, showcasing the groom's dedication and willingness to go the extra mile for his bride.
8- Italy
In Italy, the tradition of giving "confetti" to newlyweds is quite unique. While many people may associate the term "confetti" with colorful bits of paper, in Italian culture, it actually refers to sugared almonds. These sugared almonds are given to wedding guests as favors during the reception, and they were traditionally thrown at the bride and groom. However, in recent times, these almond confetti have been replaced by "coriandoli," which are tiny scraps of paper. Despite the change in throwing material, the tradition of giving confetti as a symbol of good luck and celebration to the newlyweds remains a cherished part of Italian wedding customs.