What about those handkerchiefs and umbrellas?

At the end of almost all weddings in New Orleans, you will see a brass band. Guests, along with the bride and groom, wave and swing beautifully decorated umbrellas and imprinted handkerchiefs in the air. To an outsider, this all looks pretty weird. What is this about? New Orleans is a traditional kind of place and people travel here to have a good time. The second line is one of those traditions. The second line is an African American custom that originated as a celebration after a deceased person was laid to rest. It is thought that death is not an end, but a beginning. People dance from the gravesite with a brass band playing upbeat tempos. This custom has found a niche into celebrating a sacred union and is now shared by almost everyone who has a wedding in New Orleans. When the brass band strikes up the music, people automatically know to snatch a napkin or handkerchief or to open an umbrella. It’s time to par-tay! Umbrellas are ornately decorated to signify importance. The more decorated the umbrella, the more important its owner. The bride’s umbrella is usually embellished with lace, silk flowers, ribbon, and sequins. Just like bouquets, the bridesmaids’ umbrellas are not as fancy, but are comparable in beauty. The groom usually has a black umbrella, opposite the bride’s white one. Grooms have even latched onto carrying finely decorated canes instead of umbrellas. The guests join in the celebration taunting personalized handkerchiefs in the air. As the music plays, everyone festively moves to the beat. The bride and groom start the second line around the room and guests follow. The music and dancing goes on for about a half hour. Because second lines were originally outdoors, umbrellas were used to block the sun and offer protection from the rain. Handkerchiefs were used to wipe away perspiration. Through the years, both the umbrella and handkerchief have become “essential tools” for every second line at weddings. The second line is a definite must for any New Orleans wedding. It’s how we go out in style. The umbrellas and handkerchiefs simply add to the beauty.

Lacey

The Best Events New Orleans

http://thebesteventsneworleans.com