Madrinhas and Padrinhos

This Brazilian wedding custom is similar to that of bridesmaids and groomsmen, but it's slightly different.

Madrinha and Padrinho means godfather and godmother and they play the role of a support system or guides. Couples or selected individuals can stand in and fill these shoes.

Incorporating Natural Elements

Spiritual folks may enjoy this aspect of Brazilian wedding ceremonies as they incorporate three natural elements of water, sand or fire.

This happens while the couple exchanges vows and can be done in various ways. For instance, the couple could take two separate containers of sand and pour it into a single container to signify the joining of two becoming one. Lighting a candle could be a way to incorporate fire and ringing a wind chime could represent the air element.

Cutting the Groom's Tie

The groom's tie is somewhat significant in Brazilian wedding traditions as they cut it into little pieces and then auction off each piece to guests. The funds gathered can be used for whatever the new couple wants, oftentimes to contribute to their honeymoon.

The tie cutting often takes place after the wedding ceremony and is officiated by a groomsmen or family member during the reception.

Brazilian Traditional Wedding Food, Drinks and Desserts

Parties are a huge part of Brazilian culture, so naturally food is also. If you have a sweet tooth, expect to be pleasantly satisfied by the array of delicacies and desserts they'll have on display during the wedding reception.

Sweets Table

A common Brazilian wedding tradition is to have a sweets table. The table will comprise several Brazilian desserts for guests to indulge in.
Those who are unfamiliar with Brazilian desserts can expect staples like brigadeiro—a fudge ball made with butter, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder and chocolate sprinkles. There is also bolo de rolo, pave, arroz doce and beijinho or coconut brigadeiro.

Bem casados, which are Brazilian wedding cookies—with dulce de leche at the center of two small pieces of sponge cake—are likely to make an appearance too. Lastly, the wedding cake is also distributed for guests to indulge in.

Visiting Brazil

Plan ahead, take distance into account always. It’s a massive country and places are not that close as you expect.

Here is an article the main places in Brazil and what to see there.

Please take into account that the wedding is taking place in the State of São Paulo.