Marriage, the joining a man and woman together in a ceremony, represents a common custom, which crosses all these boundaries. It's just something people do. Our weddings say a lot about us. Some celebrate the union of two people, while others view whole extended families as joining together. Marriage partners can be chosen by parents based on social standing, or by individuals based on attraction.
Weddings can take place in a house of worship, or in a private home.
The list of variations can go on forever. Marriage traditions in Venezuela, India, Greece, and Slovenia provide a window into a larger system of cultural values, and can inspire those of us in North America to seek new expressions of commitment, or look to our own roots. Immigrants, individuals marrying into more traditional cultures, and those with foreign ancestors may forego the stereotypical white wedding in favor of ethnic or religious traditions reflective of their heritage. The South American nation of Venezuela developed as a Spanish colony after the conquerors displaced the native population. Family unity and religious faith play central roles in Venezuelan marriage customs.