The Grand March

Growing up in South Texas, the weddings that we went to that had a dinner reception & dance always included the Grand March or sometimes known as the Wedding March. When I moved to West Texas, not many people knew what the Grand March was or the meaning behind it. Yes, there really is a meaning to everyone getting up to join the new couple in celebrating their new journey ahead.

The Grand March

- The dance begins with the couple being led around the room in a circle, which signifies life.

- The couple then separates, which signifies a quarrel.

- The couple then joins back together signifying making-up.

- The couples then join together in rows of four or more to signify the growing family.

- The dance then returns to single file, forming a snake that signifies the twists and turns of life.

-The couples then join together to form a bridge to which each person goes under to signify the strength of the new couples bond. 

- The newlyweds then dance together while the wedding party and guests form a circle around them signifying the support of the family in marriage.

The Grand March is also another way to get everyone who is at the wedding involved in the dance part of the reception. You know, everyone has been sitting through the ceremony and then they travel to the reception hall and wait for the bridal party to arrive and then enjoying their dinner. After all of that, its finally time to dance and this is the way we start weddings in South Texas --with the Grand March.

The Grand March is usually led by a couple that has been married for many years because you want to learn from those with experience.
The tempo of the music us upbeat but not too fast.

As the Grand March encircles the happy couple, the music lulls them into their first dance. This is always my favorite part.  
Everyone always has a great time!
Here are some pictures of  my cousin's wedding that I went to recently. We had a great time!
Pictures courtesy of Alisha Cornett at AFC Photography