The wedding lasso tradition is thought to have started in seventh century Spain and is a tradition steeped in ancient Catholic faith. Today it is a popular choice for traditional Hispanic and Filipino weddings as a ceremony that provides a visual representation of two people becoming one in marriage. With that said, it is also incorporated in weddings of non-religious couples who choose this unity ritual for the symbolism it offers. Either way, those who choose the lasso ceremony, often do so to honor their heritage.
What does the wedding lasso symbolize?
Lassoing symbolizes unity with a voluntary tethering that represents a binding love and commitment to each other in the eyes of friends, family, and God. For the lasso, you’ll need a ribbon, cord, rope or a large rosary. The tether of your choice maybe draped around the groom’s neck or shoulders, and then the bride’s (creating a figure eight) or it can be draped as a binding around the wrists like a handfasting ceremony. This is done while the wedding vows are exchanged followed by a short prayer for the couple as they stand or kneel.
Wedding lasso prayer
The prayer offered is quick:
O God, bless the marriage of [Groom name] and [Bride name], who come to you seeking your blessing.
Who drapes the lasso and when?
Traditionally, the Godparents of the bride and groom or wedding sponsors enjoy the role of draping the lasso over the groom and bride during the wedding. If Godparents or sponsors are not available, the officiant makes it part of their ceremonial duties. The groom is lassoed first and then the bride and the lasso is often secured with pins to keep it in place. Once the lasso is swathed across the couple it is worn until the end of the ceremony. When the ceremony is over, the lasso is removed by those who put it in place, and it is given to the bride as a keepsake of her standing as mistress to her husband’s heart and home.
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