A Black (and White) Wedding: Traditional Philippine and Spanish Marriage Ceremonies The concept of marriage has existed in almost all human cultures in course of history, although its participants, base and objectives are very different. However, in almost all modern societies it is seen as a person's most important relationship and the foundation of the family. Therefore, it is not surprising that weddings, the celebration of marriage, are treated as important and fundamental events in countries around the world. Such ceremonies are so full of meaning and hope for the bride and groom, their family and friends that complex and ever-evolving traditions have arisen around weddings that emphasize the spirit of the day and attempt to bestow luck and happiness on the couple. Just as each culture has its own beliefs and customs, no two cultures' wedding traditions are the same. At first glance, traditional Filipino and Spanish weddings may appear to have a lot in common, due to Spain's four-century rule over the island nation, during which many Filipinos adopted Spanish practices. However, while Filipinos incorporated many Spanish customs into their marriage ceremonies, traditional weddings in both countries reflect their unique roots and heritage. Given the long history of Spanish rule in the Philippines, it is not surprising that the Philippines adopted many of the customs of their colonizers. customs, especially since marriage is often closely tied to religion, and the Spanish converted many Filipinos to Catholicism. Orange flowers are popular in Spanish weddings. Orange blossoms are the white, waxy flowers of the orange tree and are very fragrant. The Spaniard believes it is a symbol of simultaneous happiness and fulfillment as...... center of the card...... Abraham A. Pantilon Jr. "The Marriage of Aunt and Uncle." Personal interview. March 09, 2010.Rivera, Susan M. The traditional Spanish wedding, reflecting the lifestyles of a Spanish-speaking community. Ann Arbor, Michigan: University Microfilms International, 1980. “Spanish Wedding Traditions.” Wedding traditions and customs. Network. 11 March 2010. spanish_traditions.html>. Stinson, Tammy. "The traditions of a Spanish wedding -." Associated Contentassociatedcontent.com. July 13, 2005. March 11, 2010 wedding.html?cat=23>. "Wedding Traditions in the Philippine Islands." Wedding traditions and customs. March 11, 2010traditions/traditions_philippines