Being as we’re in the wedding business, we’re certainly not adverse to indulging in the spectacle and pageantry of weddings. Great music, skillful lighting, perhaps some throwing of rice or even silly events like the shoe game–things that stand out and make weddings memorable. But after spending so much time in spectacle mode, it’s easy to forget that weddings can be so much more than that (or, at least, they should be more). At their heart –weddings are a celebration –of love, of bonds that we hold dear, and of families coming together.
That’s why we couldn’t help but notice a news story that circulated last week about an Auckland, New Zealand bride that was brought to tears be something as simple as a dance.
But this wasn’t just any dance, no. This wasn’t the bridal dance with the father or the iconic newlywed couple duet. Instead the groomsmen’s brother and wedding guests surprised the couple with a traditional haka –a series of grunts, gestures and chants that’s a tradition of the Maori people, native to New Zealand.
The couple were so moved by the display of emotion and respect from their guests, that the groom took off his blazer and joined in. By the end, the raw emotion and respect of the display had brought the bride to tears. In that moment, nothing was too trite or silly, there was no shame in crying or getting emotional, because the poignancy of the wedding allowed for people to let their guard down and be affectionate in a natural, genuine way.
This wasn’t incredible just because it was a powerful moment however, what made it even better is that the haka is originally a war chant. The grunts and facial expressions are meant to inspire dread on the battlefield, and yet, here it is being used to celebrate families coming together. That may be one of the most creative ways to celebrate love that we’ve ever seen. Fortunately, the event was recorded, and you can see the emotional moment here, courtesy of NBC News.
