What Happens during the Cake Cutting Ceremony in a Habesha Wedding?

The official Ethiopian/Eritrean traditional engagement usually takes place on the day of the wedding.

After lunch has been served the Bride and Groom then move on to a specially designated area of the hall for the cutting of the cake. They do this as music is played and are accompanied by some family or friends.

They then officially exchange rings in the presence of everyone. This is the first time they actually wear their rings.

They then proceed to cut the wedding cake as champagne is being opened. The bride and groom feed each other with little pieces of cake as a symbol of their commitment and love for each other.

During this time, the wedding guests are served cake and champagne.

There are also little gift packages of candy that the bride ceremoniously throws to guests as a sign of her appreciation as she returns to her seat with the groom. 

Photo Credit: habeshagal