Guests are offered food consistently during the meal, and it is customary to decline before accepting. To plan expenses, you can take the example of organizing a wedding in Montenegro on your own. However, no misuse of this occasion was recorded, as it would be considered incest. When entertaining, it is important to offer more food than can be eaten; this is a sign of hospitality and wealth. Here you can take a photo session. Coffee and juices are also consumed; tea is taken more during illness. After the raising of the flag, the grooms family celebrates, sings and toasts. Things are done a bit differently in Montenegro. It was time for the new husband and wife to walk gracefully down the aisle right? drop us your email and we'll send you beautiful ideas to inspire your perfect celebration, Copyright 2022The Celebrant Directory | All Rights Reserved. Wedding ceremonies tend to be secular, but religious ceremonies are increasing. Rational preservation of tradition fosters diversity, promotes uniqueness of people and nurtures cultural sensitivity in generations to come. Weddings in rural areas are more elaborate than in urban areas; they include several days of drinking, dancing, and eating that often force the family into debt. The newlyweds arrive 1-2 days earlier than the rest. An international Marriage Certificate must be formulated by a special clerk, it takes some time. They can be found on the coast, near old monasteries and churches. It might be difficult to provide the passports of the witnesses on time if your friends are living abroad and planning to arrive later. In all regions, upon the arrival at her new home, the bride would meet a child that she had to raise in the air three times successively, this would mean that she is able to have and raise kids. The bride and groom may not be closely related by blood and two witnesses are required who must send copies of their ID to the authorities before the wedding takes place. Locally grown produce includes cabbage, lettuce, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, sweet peppers (paprikas), apples, pears, watermelons, and strawberries. Pegs on the Line is a collection of stories about places, people and experiences around the world. Despite illogical and anachronistic aspects, tradition will always teach us about past lifestyles, help us to appreciate the benefits we have now and serve as an inexhaustible well of inspiration for scientists, artists, linguists and many contemporary experts that are shaping and enhancing our present. The mother-in-law was supposed to welcome and greet the bride at the door. If the flag was damaged or if the brides family overtook it, the grooms family would be seriously disgraced and ashamed. Let Montenegrin traditional songs sound. Usually, the men from the grooms family would visit the girls father and he would show them the girl whose turn it was to marry. The brides family had to receive the guests with the greatest honors. Come on, Dino said and walked around to the entrance. Wedding dresses and suits are brought with them, attributes are bought on the spot souvenirs, elements of national clothes. It is more usual for UK couples to do the legal part as a quick civil ceremony in the UK before traveling to Montenegro for the personalised wedding ceremony. For a citizen of Montenegro, the package of documents will be slightly different: All documents must be no older than six months. Tradition undeniably changes over time. It used to contain a working olive press so has lots of amazing historical elements. The bride and groom may not be closely related by blood and two witnesses are required who must send copies of their ID to the authorities before the wedding takes place. Princess-like status was nonexistent back then. Her brother would stand in front of her room and guard the door. Thinking of getting married in beautiful Montenegro in southeastern Europe? They are selected from local residents, it can be employees of cafes or restaurants. Fancy some more amazing content like this to help plan your wedding? Ah I know the people getting married, Dino said. Its a small unspoiled country and Celebrant Weddings are only recently becoming more popular with couples. Typically, girls older than 12 and boys older than 14 were eligible for marriage, although there were certain exceptions to this rule in Montenegro. This information is correct as of October 2021, but its essential to look on the UK government website prior to traveling to Montenegro, and for your return to the UK, to ensure you are following the latest regulations. It's written by Megan Dingwall, an Australian journalist with an insatiable curiosity. Namely, in the entire region of Serbia and Montenegro, engagement was purely a parental decision. The Old Town, along with King Nikolas Palace by the beach and the grounds around Bars famous olive tree (its more than 2000 years old) are popular wedding locations here. Except among close friends and family, people are never referred to by their first name. There is a beautiful view of the island and mountains. Sadegh Hedayat: as influential as Kafka, yet in his shadow, One of the greatest Iranian writers and pioneer of modern Persian literature, Significant ecological changes demands a change of perspective, A reflection on the importance of revitalizing them, Student infractions: the school-to-prison pipeline in the USA. Lake Eyre in flood: A desert phenomenon comes to life. Patterns and lace for the young. The price of a tour for two is 1300 Euro for 12 days. Saint Stephen Island. Despite their peculiar and irrational character, superstitions and customs unassailably shape cultures and the mentality of people. Moreover, most of the feast and expenses were to come during the ceremony itself. If you have been divorced, then the final divorce papers must be shown. And although the church wedding in Montenegro is a romantic and sublime ritual, it does not have an official status, you still have to go to the municipality for the state Certificate (or to the registry office in your homeland). Bread (usually white) is eaten with each meal, and wine is served at the main meal. Some of the fortresswalls are in good condition and its easy to imagine it as it once would have been. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If your wedding style is family-oriented, fun, and relaxed then hiring out the winery would be a perfect option. But they are not suitable for young people with modern views on family life the wife must obey her husband, marriage is a symbolic ransom of the bride and the celebration of victory. You should organize this in your home country and also speak with your celebrant or registrar in Montenegro to see if there are any expiry limits in place. Where to hold a wedding ceremony in Montenegro: You can make a wedding in Montenegro anywhere, even on the city beach. Young people can plan a honeymoon in the country right after the wedding. The members of the brides family would gather, sing, drink, and together visit all the households whose members should attend the wedding. Certainly, her new duties and more amusing traditions were yet to come. The shoes are comfortable, as you have to walk a lot, dance. In addition, for foreign newlyweds or witnesses, a licensed translator (sudski tuma) must be present. Small towns are convenient for marriage Sutomore, Cetinje, Rafailovici, Becici. Reproduction or use of any materials only with the permission of the publisher: Declaration of marital status for the bride and groom (not older than 3 months); Receipt of payment of the municipal fees. Tuma will cost you about fifty euros per hour. The most common foods include pasulj (stew made of beans and pork ribs), sarma (cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice), rotilj (grilled meats), cevapcici (small, elongated minced meatballs served with chopped onions), and punjene paprike (stuffed peppers). ress_js("https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-3277486462583303"); (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({}); The organization will take 7-14 days, the cost for 10 guests and honeymooners is 8,000 Euro. The bureaucracy here can be a little difficult to navigate, and whilst a good wedding planner will be able to assist you in obtaining all the necessary paperwork, it is far more straightforward to do that part in the UK, and have one thing ticked off on what can be a long To Do list in the run-up to a wedding). The marriage application is accepted by an employee called matiar. Beautiful wedding in Montenegro the choice of venue for the wedding ceremony. Serbs are quite open in public about their emotions and views that they hold passionately. Nice article Pegs.are you learning how bridesmaids behave? The bride was dancing and throwing her hands up in the air, doing well not to spill her champagne. Service staff. Firstly, the pageant of guests travels from the grooms house to purchase the bride. On their way to the brides home, the guests would sing, offer drinks to anyone they meet and in return, the passers-by would offer food and more drinks to the guests. The main entrance was decorated with peach ribbons. The father is usually considered the head of the family. In Montenegro, this might take a month. In greeting an older person, a younger one must stand. 1. This gets you your marriage license. As we went up into the grounds, the wedding guests were coming down, the women struggling on the rocky path in their heels. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Wedding ceremonies in Montenegro can be whatever you want them to be! Similarly, marital proposal was far from a private occasion for those that were not engaged in childhood. Gospodin (Mr.), Gospodja (Mrs.), and Komija (Neighbor) have reemerged to replace Comrade. Tetka (Auntie) and Cika (Uncle) are reserved for older people who are not family but for whom Gospodin and Gospodja are too formal. This is a heavy meal that includes soup and a meat dish. But for the exotic and getting new impressions this can be done abroad. In order to register with the authorities, you need to show: 3. From Tivat you can hire a bus to the wedding venue in Montenegro. He led the dancing guests through the house before everybody made their way in convoy to the brides house. Resort Budva, Herceg Novi or Bar. However, a complete clarification of all beliefs related to marital life, the role of a wife and expectations of women would be a mission impossible. So the wedding in Montenegro will be authentic and memorable. In some areas of Serbia and Montenegro there were even unwritten price lists indicating how much money should be offered for the bride and how much the bride should bring. Mount Lovcen. For 10-15 guests they rent a villa, it is possible not in the center of the resort. There are so many stunning places in Montenegro and as long as you follow the correct steps to lawfully marry, then it is a relatively simple process to start planning. Villa Stari Mlin Villa Stari Mlin has more of a traditional feel as it is a 400-year-old farmhouse. You can come to Montenegro on a tourist visa and be married during that 3 month period at any time. Many of the women stand and dance while waving small handkerchiefs. His family and friends were dancing around the room, while one man, the designated flag bearer, waved pole with a Montenegrin flag and a towel tied to the end. They are taken from independent sources, only positive ones are custom-made. What should I look for when choosing a wedding Celebrant? This gets you your marriage license. At an engagement, for instance, the bride-to-be and other women in her family used to receive apples, soaps, fans and hair pins while the groom and male members of his family would get shirts, socks, towels, food and drinks. After the ransom, according to tradition, the groom and his friends fired shots into the air, symbolizing their victory. From the party scene in front of us and the table of food and drink I assumed official proceedings were over and this was the reception. Herceg Novi which is the closest Montenegran town to Croatia. The first is an unofficial festive ceremony, when guests and newlyweds sit at tables and have fun. both men and women need to be 18 years of age. A wedding in Montenegro is done according to local customs, which are similar to Russian ones. The only British-trained celebrant in Montenegro currently is Sue Dixon. A beautiful arch is set up on a high point of the hill, the young people go to it along the path. Ive seen a lot of weddings take place around the world, but this is the first time Ive walked into the event. The ceremony is done on the beach in the evening. Office and staff. The Savina Winery This is located in the town of Herceg Novi which is the closest Montenegran town to Croatia. Tour for two to Montenegro 1200 . In arranged marriages, a couple may only meet shortly before the wedding. The men were proud of their weapons and wore them as accessories on special occasions. You can stay at the hotel, accommodate guests there. As in any country on Earth, you can have big or small ceremony with or without the help of a wedding planner. Due to a housing shortage, urban couples might also live with parents for a time, but more often with the bride's. The state certificate in the Montenegrin language will be issued immediately by the municipality. Theres another parade through the house and more dancing before everyone sits down for a drink. The agency has been operating for three years or more. Music is popular, with folk music (narodna muzika) being especially favored in rural areas. Press Esc to cancel. She works closely with wedding planner Michle, and together they offer a strong partnership to meet your personal requirements. After the cannonade, the pageant of guests would proceed to bring the bride, sometimes on foot and sometimes on a horse, depending on the budget. Dino explained the guests would now make their way to the reception in a convoy that would have right of way through the city. However, the latest wedding trends and social media gave rise to more identical weddings all over the world than any old-fashioned custom. A girl can wear a white dress, but with red and blue patterns. Again, the document must be certified and translated. For that reason, parents used to decide if their children are compatible. Its a unique and special place for your memorable occasion, and one where some of your guests might have never visited before; yet still within easy and affordable reach of the UK. Furthermore, the financial aspect of marriages was as important as the quality and diversity of gifts. Throughout the celebration, the bride had to be close to her brother-in-law. You can choose a place in the canyons of Montenegro, the guides will tell you where there are beautiful views. As a non-vaccinated person, you require a PCR or a rapid flow antigen test to enter Montenegro. The main meal of the day is rucak, eaten after work around 2 or 3 pm . If you are looking for a DIY, rustic wedding then its the perfect setting. The grooms preparations were more time-saving. The knowledge of culture is the means of its preservation. Never heard of a baby engagement or bride purchase? The wedding, quite literally, lasts all day. Secondly, the purchase by no means meant freedom for the bride. When people are introduced, they shake hands and say their first name or first and last names, followed by Drago mi je (I am pleased). It was nearing sunset and the hills were glowing behind us and the sun sparkling on part of the Adriatic Sea in front of us. The country is a party to the Hague Convention of 1961, therefore official documents issued in Montenegro are recognized almost anywhere in the world. Instead, the guests say toasts, wishes to the young family heirs, well-being, prosperity. Balkan regions abounded in superstitions related to the brides entrance into the house. Sounds obvious, but there really is something for everyone you are only restricted by your imagination (and budget of course). The bride would sometimes also get a distaff and spindle and was expected to touch each wall with them. All documents must be translated into Montenegrin by an official court member (sudski tuma). After the extraordinary initiation, the bride was officially a member of the new family. Purchase of tours and transfer from the airport. Website. In some parts of Montenegro, if fathers wanted to strengthen their friendship and join the local influences, they would even engage their babies. Time the beginning of June or the end of September. Choosing Montenegro as a wedding destination will never disappoint! 2. They just signed the certificates. All this celebration was just an interlude. At the brides house her family was lined up to greet the guests; first the men, then the women. My discovery and embrace of the path for human liberation, Tales of the Battle of Kosovo and a Slavic god, Well-wishers would offer food and drinks to the guests, The oldest girl in the family had to get married first, A feast would take place at the bride's house prior to the wedding ceremony, Rings could be rented for the engagement and returned after the wedding, Most of the feast and expenses would come during the ceremony, Time has removed some of the harsh traditions, thus weddings are now a more pleasurable experience for the brides. Extract from the book of birth records (izvod iz Matinog Registra Roenih); Declaration of marital status (uvjerenje o slobodnom branom stanju); Proof of citizenship (uvjerenje o dravljnstvu); Copy of personal Montenegrin citizens ID or passport (fotokopija Line Karte ili pasoa); Receipt of payment of the municipal fees (dokaz o uplati takse za vjenanje). Can we involve our guests in the ceremony? These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Dancing on the chairs I hope. All documents MUST be translated by an official translator and stamped with an apostille, here in Montenegro. We had coffee in the Old Town and heard the music getting louder. The brides house was the place for another feast, a lot of singing, dancing, toast and exchange of gifts. The clothes for the newlyweds can be modern, but with national Montenegrin elements. Wedding invitations, for example, were exclusively oral in the northern parts of Serbia. As a fully vaccinated person, you do not require a PCR test to enter Montenegro. Accommodation. Its not a big place. The municipal fees vary from city to city. The picturesque views, interesting local traditions, excellent weather the country is a tiny Europian jewel! Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Milana is a master philologist, English language teacher, a wife and mother. The fee for the official Certificate would be from two to fifteen euros. Please check your entries and try again. In Montenegro, the bride had to step over a doormat under which there was a knife, this was supposed to make sure she would give birth to boys. It is profitable to order tours to Montenegro for all guests accommodation in apartments or villas. The country sits next to Croatia and opposite Italy, so its surrounded by breathtaking views and stunning beaches, mountains, and valleys, perfect for any wedding ceremony backdrop. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to the use of ALL cookies. Guests often bring small gifts, such as coffee, wine, or a bottle of hard liquor; if visiting for the first time, such a gift is usually expected. 2. How to choose an agency for a wedding in Montenegro: You can choose an organization based on the reviews of friends or relatives. Professional wedding agencies offer package services purchase of air tickets, accommodation, transfer from Tivat airport, meals. The grooms fully armed guests would gather and mark the beginning of the ceremony with three cannonades. And citizens of most countries do not need to apply for a tourist visa. On the second day they sign, officially fix the relationship. Banquet hall rental 300 Euro per day without food. Finally, the arrival of the bride into the new family was another special moment. I joined the rest of the guests at the back, clapping along. In other parts of Serbia, the girls father would be offered a bottle of brandy along with the marital proposal taking a sip indicated the acceptance of the proposal, while the refusal of the drink was considered a rejection of the marital proposal as well. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Its as close as wedding crashing as I think Ill ever get. We use cookies on our website. This was an occasion when the young couple met and their families exchanged gifts and pleasantries. That didnt surprise me. Montenegro is a very special place for any occasion and will provide memories that will last forever. As far as old towns go in this part of the world (nearly every major town or city has its own Stari Grad), the one at Bar is small, but beautiful. Guests are expected to finish all of the food on their plate. Its high time you delved into the era when brides were far from princesses and when wedding guests wore more weapons than jewelry. 2. A wedding with less than 150 guests is considered small. If the wedding ceremony takes place outside the municipal court, the tariff increases by 4-5 times. Click here to find your perfect Celebrant. The advent of the bride was the most controversial point. The hotel itself sits right next to the sea so its a perfect location for a beach wedding with stunning views. The witnesses can be citizens of any country. Your CNI needs to be issued 3-6 months before the ceremony in your home country/countries. Then it was replaced by car horns. Then its back to the grooms for more socialising before everyone goes home to get ready for the ceremony. Interestingly, this custom remained until today, in a humorous form though. Dino laughed and warned that what Id seen was nothing. The legal requirements for marriage in Montenegro are. This is an example of the work of a photographer, toastmaster. Matiar accepts the translated copies, and you must present the original documents as well. Something went wrong. The Certificate of Marriage will need translating and stamping again at the Notary, and you will then receive this a few days later. Organizing a Certificate of No Impediment is the first thing you need to ensure you have before you plan your wedding in Montenegro. It started in the grooms bedroom. Bar has a population of about 20,000 people and everyone knows everyone and their grandparents. Wedding planning used to start once the couple was officially engaged. Then he showed me part of his brothers wedding video. If the witnesses are Montenegrins, then along with the main package of documents, a copy of their personal identification card or passport (fotokopija line karte ili pasoa) is submitted. Soccer is the most popular sport, followed by basketball, volleyball, swimming, and skiing. You can hire a wedding agency in Montenegro. Marriage was considered an excellent opportunity for good neighbor relations or an alliance of powers and impact. The party did not stop after the engagement party and gathering of guests. This performance is played out between the young and the mother or girlfriend of the young. You must give the notice to marry at least 7 days before the ceremony takes place, but longer than that is recommended. In the 19th century in Serbia, with the aim of regulating marital practices, ore Petrovi proscribed that no one could offer or ask for more than one golden coin for a girl, which improved the marriage prospects of the poor. They will help organize the ceremony, talk about local wedding traditions. Since the workday begins at 7 am , people wait until 10 am for their breakfast (dorucak), which in rural areas can be a substantial meal. You need to add 5-10% to the total. Guests invited to dinner are served meze (an antipasto of cheese and sausages) before the meal. 4. If you wish to use a celebrant in Montenegro, you can together design your own special personalised ceremony. Roasted pork or lamb, served with potatoes, is favored on special occasions. At this time of day it must be one of the most beautiful spots in Bar. A wedding in Montenegro lasts two days. Everything in one place. The grooms brother is, even today, supposed to negotiate with the brides brother and purchase the bride. Besides the presents for the bride and her family, the brides brother had to be gifted money or golden coins to release his sister. These are the clothes of the peasants of Montenegro, which is not suitable for a celebration. 3. They wont stop for red lights.. This beautiful eco-hotel is located in a lovely village called Donja Lastva. Certificates of No Impediment issued 3-6 months before the ceremony, in your home country/countries. Family ties are important in Serbia , but both divorce and remarriage are common, particularly in urban areas. She explores culture, customs, traditions and old beliefs and tries to save them from oblivion.