Tying the Knot

     Marriage really symbolizes and celebrates the unity of two people and their eternal binding. Of course almost all would agree with this statement, however the Guatemalans and Mexicans take it a step farther and truly actualize it. As a symbol of the strong bond that marriage brings, many Guatemalan and Mexican couples choose to incorporate the old tradition of 'atando el nudo', or the 'tying of the knot' into their wedding ceremonies.

     This tradition refers to the act of literally tying the bride and groom to one another, either by their shoulders or wrists. After having been bound together, the couple is blessed by the priest. In Guatemala, long silver ropes are used to do the deed and in Mexico, extra long rosaries are used instead. In the end however, the general idea is still the same. To any couple that really wishes to get across a message of strong unity and binding, this tradition is just what's needed.

By Julia Dankov