How to Use a Veil & Cord in a Wedding

The veil and cord wedding tradition originated in the Philippines. Many traditional Filipino couples, as well as others who like the tradition, may wish to incorporate it into their ceremonies. If you are planning on incorporating this into your wedding make sure you have informed your minister prior to the rehearsal so that he is familiar with the procession and feels comfortable performing the ceremony you desire.

Place the veil over the bride's head and groom's shoulders. This should be done by your veil sponsors, typically one female and one male. When choosing your veil sponsors, consider choosing one from each side of the family for added significance of the melding of your families.

Pin the veil into place on the bride's head and the shoulder of the groom. The veil tradition occurs during the Sanctus portion of the wedding ceremony. The veil is used to symbolize the couple's unity and the church's blessing to live under one roof. The pastor will explain the significance to guests and proceed to offer the couple a prayer. The veil sponsors should remain silent throughout the ceremony.

Place the cord in a lose figure eight around the bride's and groom's necks. This is done by the cord sponsors after the veil has been pinned into place. The cord is a symbol of the lifetime bond the couple is entering into.The cord also represents that the couple is now bound to walk life in the same direction, at the same pace. The couple will finish the ceremony wearing the veil and cord.

Tie the Yugal around the couple's necks in a figure eight. This is performed by the cord sponsors. Similar to the cord that has already been laid on the couple, the Yugal is a nuptial tie or a decorative silken rope, flowers, coins or diamonds. The Yugal symbolizes the infinite bond of marriage -- a lifelong union between the couple. The cord ceremony concludes the traditional Filipino wedding.