Add a Log Cutting Ceremony to Your Wedding as a Symbol of Cooperation

Nothing symbolizes the 'give and take' of marriage quite like log cutting wedding traditions do

 

The secret to a lasting marriage? Being able to work through any challenge with respect, communication, cooperation, and a good sense of humor. And nothing symbolizes all these skills quite like channeling your inner lumberjack while wearing heels or a three piece suit…That’s right, it’s time to talk about log cutting wedding traditions! 

 

Most often, wedding log cutting involves the wedding couple, a two-handled crosscut saw, a small log, and a crowd of laughing, cheering spectators. The newlyweds take their position on either side of the log, take hold of the saw, and then work together to cut the log in half. The log cutting ceremony is usually ‘officiated’ by a beloved family elder or the couple’s parents, but any close friend can be chosen to give their encouragement. 

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This ritual is a timeless demonstration of teamwork, and a perfect symbol of the ‘give and take’ that’s required to make a marriage work. If both partners pull or push at the same time, nothing will happen – the newlyweds must trust each other, take turns, communicate well, and find their own rhythm to cut the log successfully. Just like they’ll have to do in marriage. 

 

 

Newlyweds must work together, taking turns puliing the saw to succeed. (Photo: tobntno / iStock)

 

Almost always, a large group of wedding guests watch the ritual unfold. It’s a humorous, fun event, with a lot of cheering and playful heckling. Because of this lively energy, and the potential to dirty an outfit, log cutting traditions usually take place after the formal wedding ceremony ends and before the reception – and the beer and cocktail consumption – begins. 

 

Several Germanic and Central European cultures have included log cutting in the wedding ceremony or reception over the years. Variations of the ritual are commonly seen in Germany, where the ritual is called a "Baumstamm sägen," ,Switzerland, and Austria. Leave it to the Germans – with their strong work ethic and egalitarian, playful approach to love – to create such a meaningful wedding ritual! 

One of the things we appreciate most about this wedding tradition is that it’s gender neutral. This makes it a great fit for same-sex and same-gender couples, and any couple that values equality and cooperation in their relationship. 

What a wonderful way to strengthen your bond and celebrate the next chapter together. 

 

Watch a fun demonstration of this German tradition during a multicultural wedding celebration in the video below: 

 

 

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More Multicultural Wedding Traditions & Inspiration from American Marriage Ministries: 

 

• Two Traditional German Wedding Cakes: Baumkuchen & Spitzwecken (from "10 Traditional Wedding Cakes Served Around the World")

 

• German Lucky Piglet Ceremony for Weddings (from "Here Comes the Swine: 8 Wedding Traditions with Pigs")

 

• Interfaith Minister Ordination for Wedding Officiants and Celebrants
   
• Learn How to Officiate Multicultural & Interfaith Weddings with This Online Class
   
• Forest Themed Wedding Ceremony & Elopement with Ring Warming Unity Ritual
   

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Have a Friend Officiate Your Wedding Ceremony: It's Easy With Free Ordination From AMM

 

Your loved one knows just what to say to make you smile, to keep you calm, and to bring out the best in you. This makes them a perfect fit for the role of wedding officiant! They'll ensure there's nothing but positive energy and love surrounding you on your big day. 

Ask a friend or family member to officiate your wedding with free online ordination through American Marriage Ministries (AMM). All they need to do is click the link below to get started! 

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American Marriage Ministries is an inclusive nondenominational internet church that ordains and trains ministers to officiate marriage ceremonies. We're a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit church, and help people from all backgrounds and beliefs become ordained ministers for weddings. Our online ordination is free, accessible, and never expires.

 

Get ordained online free with American Marriage Ministries to marry friends and family! 

 

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