While the Haitians are starting to adopt different wedding customs, the majority of people in the countryside are still holding on to their ancient wedding tradition.

Everything is different from the preparation to the end. There is no formal invitation, everybody from church members to the community are invited by word of mouth. The wedding day starts with people showering the streets where the bride will walk to the church accompanied with her many bridesmaids. The ceremony itself can last up to 3 hours listening to all the church choirs singing and the pastor’s sermon can last forever.

For the reception, most of the time, tables are arranged only for the couple and their two witnesses and sometimes the bridesmaids.

At the end, as they already know what to expect, plenty of foods are served to everybody, food always cooked by family members. They usually don’t cut the cake till a few days after the wedding. But what really matters after all, they are happy with their tradition and their marriages last always forever.

Wedding rings hold much symbolism. Not only do wedding rings represent commitment, honor and love, but also the never ending circle is a symbol of peace and perfection.

The hand that the wedding ring is placed on also has a significant meaning.

Dating back to ancient times, the third finger on the left hand was believed to be connected to a special vein, the vein of “love” that went directly to the heart. There is no scientific evidence thus far proving this theory, but this novel idea has lasted through centuries.

King Edward VI of England made a Law during his reign, that the third finger on the left hand would be the designated wedding ring finger. In 1549 this law was sealed when it became printed in the Book of Common Prayer. Even after King Edwards law many European brides still wear their wedding rings on their right hands. Tradition and customs all over the world will differ on which will be the proper placement of the wedding ring.

In the end it is not law or theories but personal beliefs that make the placement of the wedding ring significant and meaningful.