Wedding Customs From Around The World Want more than the traditional something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue? Honor your heritage or borrow from another culture! Wales Daffodil boutonnieres - daffodils are the national flower of Wales. I have plenty during the season, and you are most welcome to some. Germany Do the "umbrella dance"! Leave a white umbrella at the entrance to the reception, and ask guests to sign it with colorful markers. The umbrella is presented to you as newlyweds; you then hold it over your heads during your first dance (a slow song) while guests throw confetti at you. Substitute bubbles for confetti, if you desire. Africa and Ireland Jumping the broom. Although a wedding broom can be purchased at ethnic stores, you may prefer to decorate a plain ol' household broom with flowers and ribbons and bows in your wedding colors. You may jump the broom before or after your wedding ceremony. Before: As you walk down the aisle, stop and jump the broom. Single guests stand behind the couple, while married ones stand in front. Immediately after the ceremony: The broom is behind you as you marry. When you turn to be presented to the guests, you jump the broom and proceed back down the aisle. During the reception: With family and friends gathering in a circle around you, you jump the broom. The broom is then removed and you dance your first dance. A toast or blessing may be said as you jump the broom. Example: May the new life of this couple be filled with much happiness, joy and blessings. Spain The groom gives the bride thirteen coins in the memory of Christ and His twelve apostles. As a symbol that the groom promises to support her, the bride carries the coins in a small bag. Mexico also has a similar custom. Greece Since ivy is considered the symbol of eternal love, carry it in your wedding bouquet or use it in centerpieces. Carry a lump of sugar in your glove on your wedding day to ensure a sweet married life. Hebrew At the beginning of the wedding ceremony, the bride can observe the Biblical custom of Circling the Groom seven times. Japan Add cherry blossoms or jasmine to your bouquet. Fans are considered a symbol of happiness in China and Japan, so use them as table decorations or in place of bridesmaids' bouquets. Use your imagination, and enjoy your day!!! Mix and match the customs to further personalize your wedding.