While we’re all familiar with the wedding traditions celebrated here, there are plenty of interesting international wedding celebrations around the world, which can be easily incorporate into your own celebrations. Here are just a few of our favourites…

Chinese tradition: Multiple outfit changes

In China, the bride traditionally changes her outfit at least three times, with some brides donning a whopping five different ensembles… And you thought choosing just one dress was a big deal! The first outfit of choice is for a traditional tea ceremony with the groom’s family. This is usually a simple, respectful choice, with nothing too extravagant being worn here. Next up, is a gown for the ceremony itself, followed by a quick change for the reception. But it doesn’t stop here. Many brides will choose a fourth or even fifth outfit, just for the fun of it. Phew!

Put your own spin on this tradition with a change of dress for your reception – it’s the perfect opportunity to go glam in something with a more slinky silhouette.

German tradition: Kidnap the bride

Okay… so we’d like to introduce this by saying it isn’t as Gone Girl as it sounds. It’s actually rather fun! The custom in Germany is to kidnap the bride before the wedding, with the groom being tasked with finding her, with the assistance of family and friends. Think of it as a combo of a hen and stag do (hag, if you please), with the groom left fitting the drinks bill for everyone who helps him on his mission. We love this ‘treasure hunt’ idea and it’s a great way to evoke some fun into what can be a stressful time. Just don’t do it too close to the wedding in case your bride is a hide and seek pro!

Icelandic tradition: Long engagement

If you’re in no rush to set the date following your proposal, take guidance from the Icelandic tradition of a long engagement, where couples usually wait three to four years to tie the knot. This period of time represents the importance and significance of the couple’s devotion to marriage and a lifetime together. Then, in the run-up to the wedding day itself, celebrations begin as early as three weeks before the wedding.

Norwegian tradition: A cake with a difference

While wedding cake traditions vary from country to country, for something a little bit different why not look to Norway for inspiration? Known as kransekakes, this series of cake rings are made with almonds, sugar and egg whites and assembled using icing. Delish!

Polish tradition: Giving bread, salt & vodka

Upon arrival at the reception, the newlyweds are firstly presented with bread and salt. The symbolic gesture of bread is to ensure the couple never goes hungry, while the salt represents the importance of coping with life’s difficulties. Following this, the couple share their first toast as husband and wife when they are given two glasses; one containing water, and the other containing vodka. They each choose a glass, not knowing what each contains and downs it. The partner who chooses the vodka filled glass is said to be the dominant partner in the relationship. A modern take on this tradition is for both the bride and groom to receive vodka, symbolising an equal partnership. We like this more!

Indian tradition: Henna art

Indian weddings are rife with traditions but the one which never fails to impress is the decorating of the bride. The bride’s family spend the night before the wedding drawing intricate designs on the bride’s hands and feet with henna – a temporary ink for the skin, and the result is simply stunning!

French tradition: Croquembouche

Sticking with the cake theme, if pastry is more your passion, do it like the French and serve a croquembouche, a delicious tower of cream filled puff pastries, with various dipping sauces. Usually decorated with fruit, nuts and glazes, these make for a pretty impressive centrepiece at a wedding reception. We’re drooling!