Say 'I Do' to the Perfect Wedding: Where to Buy Arras for Your Special Day

Your wedding day is a momentous occasion filled with love, joy, and plenty of magical moments. From the wedding dress to the venue, every detail is carefully chosen to make your special day unforgettable. However, one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is the selection of arras. These small coins play a significant role in traditional Hispanic weddings and symbolize the unity and prosperity of the newlyweds. But where can you find these precious pieces? In this article, we will take you on a journey to discover the best places to buy arras for your wedding, ensuring a seamless and meaningful addition to your ceremony.

What is Arras for Wedding?

Arras for wedding, also known as wedding coins or arras coins, are a traditional part of many Hispanic and Filipino weddings. Arras represent unity, trust, and mutual support between the bride and groom as they start their new life together.

The tradition of using arras in weddings dates back to the medieval times when Spanish royalty would exchange 13 coins as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Over the years, this tradition has become an essential part of Hispanic culture and is still incorporated into modern-day weddings.

Where to Buy Arras for Wedding

There are several places where you can buy arras for your wedding. Here are some options to consider:

1. Online Retailers: With the convenience of online shopping, you can easily find a variety of arras options on popular retail websites such as Amazon, Etsy, or eBay. These websites offer a wide range of designs and prices to choose from.

2. Local Bridal Shops: If you prefer to see the arras in person before making a purchase, bridal shops are an excellent place to look. Many shops carry traditional designs as well as modern variations that will fit your personal style.

3. Specialty Stores: Some specialty stores specialize in selling wedding accessories and decorations. These stores may have a specific collection of arras available for purchase.

4. Religious Stores: You can also find arras at religious stores such as Catholic or Christian bookstores that cater to traditional wedding ceremonies.

Finding the Right Arras for Your Wedding

When buying arras for your wedding, there are a few things you should consider to ensure that you find the perfect set:

Type: The most common type of arras is coins with 13 different designs representing 13 blessings for the newlyweds. However, you can also find arras in other forms such as hearts, doves, or crosses.

Material: Arras coins are traditionally made of gold or silver, but nowadays you can also find them in different materials such as bronze, pewter, or even acrylic. Consider the material and color that will best suit your wedding theme.

Design: As mentioned earlier, arras come in various designs, from traditional to modern. Some may have intricate details while others are simple and elegant. Choose a design that reflects your personal style and will be a meaningful addition to your wedding ceremony.

Price: The cost of arras can range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. It is essential to set a budget and stick to it when searching for the perfect arras for your wedding.

Incorporating Arras into Your Wedding Ceremony

Once you have found the right arras for your wedding, it is time to incorporate them into your ceremony. Here are some ways you can include arras:

The Exchange: During the wedding ceremony, the officiant or priest will hand over the thirteen coins to one partner who will then place them into the hands of their partner. This represents trust and faith between the couple.

The Presentation: Some couples choose to have their parents or godparents present the coins during the ceremony as a symbol of their blessing and support for the newlyweds.

The Blessing: The officiant may bless each coin before they are exchanged between the couple. This adds a spiritual aspect to exchanging arras.

Cultural Variations

While arras are primarily used in Hispanic and Filipino weddings, similar traditions exist in many cultures around the world:

– In Greece, couples exchange crowns instead of coins as a symbol of unity and mutual respect.

– In Hindu weddings, the groom gives a necklace with black and white beads to the bride, representing their union in good times and bad.

– In Japanese Shinto weddings, couples exchange three cups of sake to signify sharing each other’s happiness and difficulties.

Arras are not just coins; they hold great meaning and significance in weddings. Whether you choose traditional or modern arras, incorporating this tradition into your ceremony will add a special touch to your wedding day. With various options for purchasing arras, finding the perfect set for your ceremony is now easier than ever. Include this meaningful tradition in your wedding day to symbolize the unity and trust between you and your partner as you start your new life together.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Arras for Your Wedding

Weddings are one of the most special and meaningful moments in a person’s life. It’s a celebration of love and commitment, and everything from the venue to the decorations is carefully thought out to reflect the couple’s style and personality. One important aspect of a wedding that often gets overlooked is the use of arras. These are small coins or tokens that are exchanged between the bride and groom during the ceremony, symbolizing their commitment to one another and their shared responsibility to each other.

Choosing the right arras for your wedding is crucial because it adds an extra touch of sentimentality to your big day. It’s not just about buying any set of coins or tokens; it’s about finding ones that hold meaning for you as a couple, whether it be through its design or where it was purchased. This may seem like a daunting task, but with these helpful tips on where to buy arras for your wedding, you’ll be able to find the perfect set that will make your day even more special.

What Makes Arras Ideal for Weddings

Arras hold a significant place in traditional Catholic wedding ceremonies, where they symbolize prosperity, unity, and good fortune for the couple. However, their use has become more popular across different cultures and religions in recent years due to their symbolism of partnership and trust between spouses.

Another reason why arras have become popular in weddings is because they can be customized according to personal preferences. Some couples choose to exchange custom-made coins or tokens that hold significance from their relationship journey or cultural background.

Where Can You Purchase Arras?

When it comes to buying arras for your wedding, there are many options available. However, finding a reliable source that offers high-quality pieces at reasonable prices can be challenging. Here are some places to consider when looking for the perfect arras for your special day.

1. Online Retailers

With the rise of online shopping, buying arras from an online retailer is a convenient and efficient option. There are several reputable websites that specialize in wedding supplies, including arras. You can browse through their catalog and choose from a wide selection of designs and materials that suit your style and budget.

2. Wedding Shops

If you prefer to see the arras in person before making a purchase, you can visit wedding shops near you. These stores often have a dedicated section for traditional wedding accessories, such as rings, veils, and yes, even arras. Here you can get help from wedding consultants who can provide advice on which ones are suitable for your theme or preferences.

3. Family Heirloom

Another option for obtaining arras is through family heirlooms or passed down coins or tokens used in previous weddings within the family. This adds a sentimental value to your ceremony as you use arras that have been part of your family’s history.

Factors to Consider When Buying Arras

When choosing where to buy arras for your wedding, there are a few factors you need to consider aside from just finding a reputable source. Here are some things you should keep in mind:

1. Cultural Significance

Arras may differ in design and significance across different cultures and religions. It’s important to do some research and understand the significance behind each design before purchasing them.

2. Budget

Each couple has a different budget when it comes to their wedding, so it’s important to keep this in mind when choosing where to buy arras from. Whether it be custom-made or ready-made pieces, there are options available for every price range.

3. Material and Design

Arras come in different materials such as silver, gold, or even wood. Some couples prefer to have them engraved or personalized with their wedding date or special symbols. It’s essential to choose a design and material that holds meaning for the both of you.

The use of arras in weddings has become more prominent and is now considered as one of the essential elements of a traditional wedding ceremony. It not only adds to the overall symbolism of the wedding but also serves as a sentimental reminder of the couple’s commitment to each other. When looking for where to buy arras for your wedding, it’s important to consider the cultural significance, your budget, and your personal preferences in terms of design and material. With these factors in mind, you can find the perfect arras that will add an extra touch of love and significance on your special day.

1. Where can I buy arras for my wedding ceremony?
You can purchase arras from a variety of places, such as online retailers, local specialty shops, and some wedding boutiques.

2. Are there any specific colors or designs of arras that are traditionally used in weddings?
While there are no set rules, it is common to see gold or silver coins and white lace pouches used as arras. However, you can choose any color or design that fits your wedding theme.

3. How many coins are typically included in a set of wedding arras?
A traditional set of wedding arras includes 13 coins, symbolizing the 12 apostles and Jesus as the head of the household.

4. Can I personalize the coins for my wedding ceremony?
Yes, many retailers offer options to customize the coins with initials, names, or dates to make them more special and meaningful for your big day.

5. Is it necessary to have someone hold the arras during the ceremony?
Traditionally, a designated coin bearer would hold the arras during the ceremony and present them to the officiant when prompted. However, you can also place them on a decorative tray or pillow for display.

6. How far in advance should I purchase my wedding arras?
It’s best to purchase your wedding arras at least one month before your wedding date to ensure they arrive on time and allow any necessary customization. This will also give you plenty of time to make any adjustments if needed.

In conclusion, finding the perfect arras for a wedding can be a task in itself, but with the right knowledge and resources, it can be a stress-free experience. We discussed various options for purchasing arras, including online retailers and physical stores, each with their own pros and cons. It is important to consider factors such as budget, quality, and personal preferences when making this decision.

When purchasing arras online, it is essential to do thorough research on the seller to ensure authenticity and reliability. Additionally, taking advantage of discounts and promotions can result in significant savings. On the other hand, buying from physical stores allows for a hands-on experience and the ability to see the arras in person before making a purchase.

Moreover, considering alternative options such as renting or borrowing arras is also a viable option. This may be particularly beneficial for couples on a tight budget or those who only need arras for a one-time use.

It is also crucial to note that the significance of arras goes beyond its physical appearance or price. It symbolizes unity, prosperity, and good fortune in marriage. Therefore, it is essential to choose an arras that holds meaning for the couple and reflects their values.

In conclusion, there are various avenues for purchasing arras for a wedding –

Author Profile

Kelsey Garrison

Kelsey Garrison, our esteemed author and a passionate writer in the world of weddings and bridal fashion, has been an integral part of our website since its inception.

With a rich history in creating engaging content, Kelsey has consistently brought fresh insights and valuable information to our readers.

Starting in 2024, Kelsey made a significant transition to focus specifically on the "Wedding/Bridal Fashion, Wedding Tips" niche. This shift was driven by her desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of wedding planning and bridal fashion—a field that blends timeless elegance with contemporary trends.

Her articles are meticulously researched and designed to provide thorough answers and innovative ideas for all things wedding-related.

Say ‘I Do’ to the Perfect Wedding: Where to Buy Arras for Your Special Day