Fiji weddings are full of colorful and meaningful traditions that have been passed down through generations.
From the intricate details of wedding attire to the unique ceremony rituals, there is no shortage of customs that make a Fiji wedding unlike any other.
In this blog post, we will explore some popular Fiji wedding traditions so you can plan an unforgettable event or simply learn about this colorful culture!
Discover how traditional dress sets the tone for your big day, and learn about customary marriage ceremonies.
So let’s hop in and explore precisely what makes Fijian weddings so wonderful with our guide to Fiji wedding traditions.
Fiji Wedding Traditions
Wedding Traditions of Fijians
1. Proposing
In Fiji, there are a few different ways to propose marriage.
One way is for the person proposing to present their future spouse with a kava root, which symbolizes respect and commitment.
Traditionally, the proposer will also give their intended gifts, such as shell money or whale teeth, to show how much they value them.
Ultimately, what’s important is that you express your feelings in whatever feels natural to you and suits both of your needs.
2. Pre-Wedding Celebrations
In Fiji, it is not uncommon for couples to have an engagement party or bachelor/bachelorette party.
Usually, the engagement party is a joint gathering of family and friends.
The bachelor/bachelorette night out typically includes traditional Fijian dancing and music, often with a kava ceremony to celebrate the couple’s commitment.
Wedding Attire
Wedding attire is an important part of any wedding. The bride and groom should choose their outfits carefully, as they will be the focus of attention throughout the ceremony and reception.
3. Traditional Dress for the Bride and Groom
For a traditional wedding, it’s customary for the bride to wear a white gown with a veil or other headpiece, while the groom wears a suit or tuxedo.
Depending on religious customs, some brides may wear colorful dresses instead of white.
It’s also becoming more common for grooms to add color to their look by wearing ties or pocket squares in shades that complement their partner’s dress.
Traditional Fijian weddings often feature special pieces of jewelry for the couple.
For brides, this typically includes a special necklace, earrings, and bracelets made with cowry shells.
The groom may wear a red sulu while presenting his bride with a necklace made from white shells.
The bride and groom will also wear melele – a bracelet crafted using black coral.
These pieces of jewelry symbolize the bond between the couple and are thought to bring them luck in their marriage.
4. Outfits for Guests
Wedding guests should dress appropriately according to how formal or casual the event is; if you are unsure what type of clothing is expected, check with someone who knows more about the occasion (e.g., one of your hosts).
Generally speaking, men should wear suits or sports coats with slacks and women can choose from dresses, skirts/blouses combinations, jumpsuits etc.
As far as colors go – black tie events usually require dark colors such as navy blue or charcoal gray.
However, lighter shades like tan are acceptable, too, depending on seasonality and location.
Accessories can help complete any outfit. For example, ladies might consider adding jewelry pieces such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, whereas gentlemen could accessorize with cufflinks, ties, and pocket squares.
Shoes are another great way to make an impact – both sexes have plenty of options ranging from classic pumps and loafers all the way up through statement boots and sneakers.
Ceremony Traditions
5. Venue
A traditional Fiji wedding is often held in the village meeting hall, depending on the size of the gathering.
This often includes a ceremony presided over by a village elder and a feast where guests will enjoy traditional cuisines like boiled taro and fish cooked on hot stone slabs.
The party also includes plenty of singing, dancing, and storytelling as part of the celebration.
6. Exchange of Vows
The exchange of vows is a traditional part of most wedding ceremonies.
It’s the moment when couples commit to each other publicly and officially.
Couples can choose to write their vows or use traditional ones.
During this time, couples will also often exchange rings or other tokens of love and commitment.
Fijian couples often exchange traditional marriage vows during their wedding ceremony.
These vows usually include promises to be loyal and faithful to one another and to support each other through life’s difficulties.
Other standard wedding vows include promises to respect and honor each other, to love each other for better or for worse, and to stay together no matter what.
The bride and groom may also promise to provide a secure home for their children.
7. Gifting
Another common tradition during weddings is the bride and groom exchange gifts.
This could include anything from jewelry for the bride, cufflinks for the groom, or even something special that symbolizes their union, like a piece of art or furniture.
Whatever it may be, exchanging gifts is an important way for couples to show appreciation for one another on their big day.
After exchanging vows and gifts comes the blessing of marriage, which typically involves both families praying over the couple’s union.
Depending on religious beliefs, this might involve a priest offering words from scripture or simply family members expressing best wishes for happiness in marriage life ahead.
Fiji’s ceremony traditions are steeped in centuries of tradition and culture, offering couples a unique way to start their marriage. Now let’s explore the exciting reception traditions that follow.
Reception Traditions
When it comes to reception traditions, there are many options available.
8. Food and drink
Food and drink offerings can range from a full sit-down dinner with multiple courses to an array of hors d’oeuvres and desserts.
If you’re looking for something more unique, consider a buffet or food truck catering option.
Drinks can be as simple as beer and wine or include signature cocktails that reflect the couple’s personalities.
A traditional Fijian wedding feast typically includes a variety of dishes, many of which are traditional-style recipes.
Typical dishes include kokoda (a raw fish dish), palusami (a coconut and beef stew) and lolo bula(coconut rice).
Other items served may include various types of root vegetables, tubers and yams as well as various dishes made with taro leaves.
Desserts often feature local fruits such as pineapple, mango or banana.
9. Music and Dancing
Traditional Fijian weddings usually have a combination of traditional and contemporary music.
Popular songs may include folk-style chants accompanied by harmonizing instruments such as guitars and ukuleles.
Contemporary music is often played for the first dance between the bride and groom.
A popular choice for this is love songs, but it’s also not uncommon to play music representing the couple’s shared interests.
10. Other Wedding Rituals
Fijian weddings often include many traditional rituals, such as the kava ceremony.
In this ritual, a bowl of kava – a root-based drink – is shared between the couple and their family and friends.
In the veiqaravi vakavanua ritual, the bride and groom exchange garlands of flowers to symbolize their union.
During the tabu ni yaga ritual, an older female relative of either the bride or groom will comb the hair of both spouses as a sign of blessing.
Finally, at the end of the ceremony, guests may be invited to partake in feasting or other celebratory activities.
11. Fijian Wedding Superstitions
There are several Fijian wedding superstitions.
Before the wedding day, it’s believed that making too much noise can cause marital discord.
During the ceremony, it’s said that rain is a sign of good luck and a promise of plenty.
After the couple has been married, they must avoid looking into mirrors until after they have danced together at their reception.
Additionally, newlyweds should not cross their legs while seated or lean back in chairs, as this is seen as bad luck during the first year of marriage.
Post Wedding Traditions
After the wedding is over, it’s time to celebrate. Post-wedding traditions are a great way to keep the celebration going and honor your new marriage.
12. Traditions Post-Wedding
In many cultures, gifts are given from the newly married couple to their family members as a sign of appreciation for all they have done in helping with the wedding preparations.
These gifts can range from simple tokens of gratitude, such as cards or flowers to more elaborate presents, like jewelry or home decor items.
At Fijian weddings, it is customary for guests to bring a gift.
Typical gifts include items such as traditional mats, Bolo (a type of tie), Lovo (roasted root crops), and Kava (a beverage).
Monetary gifts are also welcome and can be used by the couple to put towards the cost of their wedding or honeymoon.
Fijian newlyweds often take a honeymoon after their wedding.
Popular destinations for Fijian couples include staying in their beautiful homeland on the islands of Fiji, plus other Pacific Islands.
Honeymoons are a way to celebrate newlywed status, spend quality time together, and relax after the hectic wedding planning process.
Conclusion
Fiji wedding traditions are a unique and beautiful way to celebrate your special day.
From the traditional attire to the ceremony and reception rituals, these customs will make your wedding an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Whether you incorporate all or just some of them into your big day, these Fiji wedding traditions will help create memories that will last a lifetime.