The celebration of a Georgian wedding begins with the tradition of machankloba, a matchmaking process where family members and friends come together to facilitate arranged meetings between prospective couples. Following this, the next significant step is nishnoba, which signifies engagement and leads to the grand wedding ceremony known as kortsili.
Georgian weddings are renowned for their extravagant guest lists, often exceeding two hundred attendees per family. It is expected that all invited guests will attend; declining an invitation is considered highly offensive, potentially ending friendships and even sparking family feuds. The roles of bridesmaids and groomsmen are taken seriously, and they are expected to avoid romantic interactions with one another to prevent any discord among those involved.
Both families of the bride and groom must approve the marriage. Historically, bride abduction was a common practice and was accepted when carried out with the bride’s consent. While this tradition has diminished in the twenty-first century, it can still be observed in some rural areas.
A unique custom involves the groom climbing onto the roof to release a white bird as the bride enters their new home. Upon their arrival, the newlyweds are offered a glass of wine. The groom drinks first, then drops the wedding ring into the glass before passing it to the bride, who also takes a sip. Afterward, the groom retrieves the ring from the glass and presents it to the bride while pledging his devotion. Typically, the bride and groom will move into the groom’s family home, where the bride first inspects the house after stepping on a decorative plate upon entry. They are then handed wooden torches known as chiragdani. As she tours the home, the bride is expected to touch a cauldron, symbolizing the household, and circle a pot filled with oil or wheat three times.
Georgians also have a lively tradition of wedding processions that wind through the streets. The bride and groom can often be seen joyfully waving from the roof of a packed limousine, while guests and family members follow in a long convoy of cars. The sounds of horns and jubilant shouts can be heard for kilometers, creating a festive atmosphere.
The wedding supra, or feast, is one of the most elaborate aspects of Georgian weddings. Toasts to the newlyweds are initially proposed by the lead Tamada, who designates vice Tamadas for each table. These toasts are heartfelt and directed toward the bride and groom, wishing them success in raising children, a long life together, and honoring their respective families.
Wedding supras can last well into the early morning hours, sometimes extending into the following afternoon. There’s a lighthearted joke among Georgians about the tradition of brawls that may arise between rival families during these celebrations. Eating and drinking are encouraged until all guests have departed the reception, ensuring that the joyous occasion is marked by laughter, camaraderie, and an abundance of shared memories.