Weddings are rooted in tradition across every culture, but in Samoa, wedding customs remain deeply woven into daily life, family structure and faith.
While many Western wedding traditions have evolved over time, Samoan wedding ceremonies continue to honour heritage, hierarchy, faith and a powerful sense of family known as aiga.
Whether you are planning a destination wedding in Samoa, incorporating Pasifika elements into your New Zealand ceremony, or simply curious about Pacific wedding traditions, these Samoan wedding customs are beautiful, meaningful and unforgettable.
If you're beginning your planning journey, keep notes inside your wedding planner book so you can thoughtfully weave cultural elements into your day.
1. Faith and the Role of Christianity
Christianity plays a central role in Samoan weddings. Ceremonies are typically officiated by a pastor, and much of the service gives praise to God and acknowledges the spiritual foundation of marriage.
One particularly beautiful moment in some Samoan ceremonies is the bride being escorted to stand just behind the groom. The groom then turns to face her before continuing forward together — a symbolic gesture honouring both faith and partnership.
Marriage in Samoa is currently defined as a union between a man and a woman under Samoan law, and religious customs remain central to how ceremonies are conducted within the islands.
2. Aiga: The Central Role of Family
In Samoa, marriage is not simply the union of two individuals — it is the joining of two extended families, or aiga.
Aiga extends far beyond immediate relatives. It includes ancestry, community connections and recognition of the matai(family chief or leader). Because of this, family approval is deeply significant.
Before a wedding takes place, both families formally agree to the match. Gifts may be exchanged between families, including fine woven mats and cultural treasures. These exchanges are often accompanied by formal speeches between family leaders.
Samoan weddings are often large, joyful affairs, reflecting the importance of extended family and community involvement. A personalised wedding guest book becomes especially meaningful when capturing messages from such a wide circle of loved ones.
3. Traditional Samoan Wedding Attire
Attire in Samoan weddings reflects cultural pride and respect.
Traditionally:
• The bride's dress may be gifted or provided by the groom's family as a gesture of honour and unity.
• After the ceremony, she may change into a traditional Samoan gown, often incorporating floral elements.
• The groom commonly wears a lavalava rather than a Western suit, particularly in outdoor ceremonies.
• Female guests often wear muumuu, and men may also wear lavalava.
Clothing choices reflect both climate and culture, blending tradition with modern style.
4. Ceremony and Cultural Dance
Dance is a powerful expression of respect, beauty and celebration in Samoan weddings.
One of the most significant dances is the Taualuga, often performed by the bride. It symbolises grace, honour and the bride's transition into married life.
Following the feast, guests may show appreciation by placing money gently on the bride during the dance. This gesture symbolises prosperity and communal support for the couple's future.
Other traditional dances, including Siva performances, may be performed by family members or hired cultural groups.
The energy is vibrant, emotional and deeply communal. These moments are ones you'll want to preserve in your wedding photos for years to come.
5. The Feast and Seating Traditions
Food is central to Samoan hospitality.
Wedding feasts often include dishes prepared in an underground oven called an umu, featuring:
• Roast pork or chicken
• Taro
• Chop suey
• Fresh salads
• Corned beef
Seating and serving order may reflect traditional social hierarchy, with elders and high-ranking family members served first as a sign of respect.
Generosity is a cornerstone of Samoan weddings. Guests are warmly welcomed, and celebrations often extend well beyond strict RSVP lists.
6. Wedding Cakes – Plural
Samoan weddings are known for elaborate cake displays.
It is common to have multiple cakes, not just one centrepiece. The scale reflects both hospitality and honour. In some cases, entire tiers are gifted to respected community members, clergy or elders.
Before the cake is cut, acknowledgements are made to those who contributed to the wedding — family, clergy and cultural performers.
Modern Samoan Weddings
While many Samoan couples today blend Western elements into their celebrations, tradition remains deeply respected.
Modern destination weddings in Samoa often incorporate:
• Contemporary floral styling
• Luxe décor elements
• Professional planners
• Cultural dancers
• Traditional attire
The result is often a stunning balance between heritage and modern elegance.
If you're planning a multicultural wedding, consider how you might honour tradition through ceremony structure, dance, music, family involvement or attire.
Planning a Destination Wedding in Samoa
If you are travelling to Samoa or American Samoa to marry:
• Confirm legal marriage requirements in advance
• Coordinate closely with local celebrants or pastors
• Discuss family expectations early
• Plan for larger guest numbers than expected
Keep your wedding planner organised with sections for cultural notes, family protocols and ceremony details.
And after the celebration, your wedding photo album will be where these traditions live on visually for generations.
Final Thoughts
Samoan wedding traditions are a beautiful reminder that marriage is more than an event — it is a joining of families, faith and future.
Whether you incorporate one meaningful element or fully embrace cultural ritual, honouring heritage adds depth and richness to your wedding day.
Wherever you're planning to get married, the Little White Book Wedding Planner will help you weave tradition and modern details seamlessly together. For more guidance, explore more wedding planning advice on our blog.