In the Philippines, at a certain point during the ceremony, a ceremonial veil is placed over the groom's shoulders and the bride's head. This symbolizes the unity of the two families into one and is also a prayer for health and protection for the couple during their married life. Italian folklore called for the groom to carry a piece of iron in his pocket on his wedding day to ward off the evil eye. The bride, of course, would wear a bridal veil to conceal her from evil spirits. In present day, the couple shatters a glass or vase at the end of the ceremony and the number of pieces represents the number of years of happy marriage.
Many couples also release white doves to symbolize their love and happiness.
During a Mexican wedding ceremony, a lazo, or large rosary, is draped around the bride and groom while they are kneeling at the altar. After the ceremony, lucky red beads are sometimes tossed at newlyweds. And a beautiful reception tradition has all the guests during the couple's first or last dance create a heart shaped circle around them. Flowers are a big part of wedding ceremonies and receptions. The groom is supposed to wear a flower that appears in the bridal bouquet in his button hole.