Getting Lassoed At Your Wedding–The History of the Wedding Lasso Rosary

Weddings are ceremonies steeped in tradition. When it comes to planning a wedding, many couples choose to incorporate customs into their religious ceremony that are unique to their culture. While weddings today have long abandoned ancient customs that were once popular (such as Roman brides wearing herbs under their veils as a symbol of fertility) many traditions remain.

One such tradition is the wedding lasso rosary, popular in Mexican, Filipino, and Spanish communities. During the religious ceremony, a large rosary is placed around the bride and groom as a symbol of unity. Although the wedding lasso rosary is popular in certain cultures, a popular trend among brides today is looking to other cultures for wedding inspiration. If you’re looking for a unique and symbolic ritual to incorporate into your upcoming wedding ceremony, the wedding lasso rosary just may be what you’ve been searching for.

Let’s take a closer look at this tradition.

A wedding lasso rosary, also called el lazo, is an oversized rosary, large enough to be entwined (lassoed) around the couple. After the couple has exchanged their vows, their wedding sponsors (witnesses) called el padrino and la madrina, place the rosary around the couple’s shoulders, starting with groom’s shoulder and then the bride’s shoulder, to form a figure eight shape. The priest recites a prayer, similar to the following: "Let the union of binding together this rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary be an inspiration to you both. Remember the holiness necessary to preserve your new family can only be obtained by mutual sacrifice and love." The couple wears the lasso throughout the remainder of the service. At the end of the ceremony the lasso is removed by the priest or by the wedding sponsors who placed the lasso around the couple.

The “lassoing” act is a symbol of unifying the couple together in marriage for their entire lives. This custom is similar to the lighting of a unity candle used in many Catholic weddings. The couple is to share the responsibility of marriage and raising a family. The figure eight also represents the mathematical symbol for infinity--no beginning and no end. The number eight in the Bible is also the number of new beginnings. The use of rosary beads in this ritual is also significant; using a rosary reflects that the bride and groom are forever bound together in unity by God.

Even couples of non-Mexican, Filipino, or Spanish descent are choosing to include this symbolic practice in their weddings. Why? You’ll often hear brides say they want “something different” for their wedding, something that’s “unique and meaningful”. Whether it’s a tradition that’s been handed down from generations in your family, or a newly adopted tradition from another culture, it’s these special touches that make your wedding distinctive and expressive. The lassoing part of your ceremony will definitely pique your guests’ interest, especially if they’re not familiar with this tradition.

A rosary lasso is made by linking two rosaries together, joined in the center by one crucifix. There are different styles of lasso rosaries to choose from to reflect your taste. Our lasso rosaries are made of different materials and finishes so you can find the one that best complements your wedding theme. If you’re a bride-to-be who’s planning a formal, black-tie ceremony the Pearl Lasso Wedding Rosary is the perfect rosary to match your refined wedding. Another great option for an elegant-themed wedding is the Pearl Lasso Wedding Rosary with Silver Tone Accents, or the shimmery Crystal Lasso Wedding Rosary with Silver-tone Accents.

For the simple, intimate wedding ceremony, the Glass Hearts Wedding Lasso Rosary is a choice we recommend. The frosted heart-shaped beads are an endearing reflection of your love.

This symbolic ritual is believed to have originated from the Aztecs dating back to the 14th or 15th century.

The wedding lasso rosary isn’t just for your wedding day; it’s a memento that’ll live on long after your day is over. Mementos are important to many brides--from pressed bouquet flowers to photos --these items help to preserve the memory of their wedding day. Unlike pressed flowers or photos, your lasso rosary will also become an heirloom piece. Imagine future generations using your wedding lasso for their wedding ceremony. Some couples choose to put their lasso rosary on display after their wedding, while others prefer to keep it safely tucked away to be handed down from generation to generation. You can purchase the Deluxe Velour Keepsake Box to ensure your wedding lasso rosary is protected.

Have you heard of the wedding lasso rosary?

What traditions do you plan on using for your wedding?

Share your thoughts in the comments.