Puerto Rico wedding traditions are one of many things that make destination weddings in PR unique and special.

The wedding ceremony is one of the oldest and most sacred rituals, and while the structure of the ceremony is the same across the globe, different countries have their own traditions to make the day extra special. 

According to The Knot, Puerto Rico is one of the top 50 destinations for weddings, so before you say “I Do” in the Puerto Rico sand, learn about some of their particular wedding customs. 

Related Post: Our Top 10 Puerto Rico Wedding Destination Venues

Puerto Rico Wedding Traditions: Wedding Favors

One of the most sentimental and widely practiced Puerto Rico wedding traditions is our version of wedding favors, Capias. Capias act as customizable souvenirs. Popularly, they are ribbons assembled into a bow that can be decorated with other materials and shells. On one end of the ribbon is the name of the bride and groom, and the date of the wedding on the other. Most will keep these souvenirs for years to come! 

Couples have innovated the original version to welcome personalized bags, coffee stations, piraguas, and event coconuts like the ones below:

The Puerto Rican Wedding Bouquet

While a bouquet is no new wedding custom, the type of flowers used in a Puerto Rican wedding is what sets it apart. The amapola is a traditional Puerto Rican flower and will make up most of the bouquets, including the bride and her bridesmaids. 

Related Post: From the Ocean to Confetti – Jessica and Jason’s Wedding

The Doll on the Cake

One of the most unique traditions is placing a doll, dressed like the bride, at the head table at the reception, or as the cake topper. The doll will be covered in charms that are then passed around to the guests. The charms on the doll are meant to signify good luck to the bride, and as a thank you to the guests for attending. 

The Blessing of the Coins

Another traditional and sacred wedding tradition is the blessing of the coins. If the wedding takes place in a church, the priest will bless a plate of 13 gold coins before handing them off to the groom. They are given to the bride, by the groom, after the vows are exchanged and are a sign of good luck and prosperity for the newlyweds. 

The First Dance

The first dance is a beautiful moment for the bride and groom as well as the guests, and at a Puerto Rican wedding a waltz known as “danza criolla” is traditionally performed for the first dance. 

Not everyone will choose to take part in these traditions, or others such as the offering of cafe con leche to the bride and groom, but it is certain every Puerto Rican wedding will have authentic Puerto Rican food, drinks, and music to keep the celebration going all night long.