Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Heritage

The wedding I photographed for in Utah for Jocelyn and Garrett, had a reception in Georgia a week later. No, the picture above is not part of Travis' family heritage, but after his sister Breezy got married in 2006, they made a tradition of "tossing" the bride. Thankfully I got married before this tradition started. But Jocey would not leave until she was tossed, at either reception. :)

The picture below is Uncle Paul (my father-in-law's younger brother who lives at the beach we go to) and his 6th child (and only daughter) Emma giving a "hongi".
"This is a traditional greeting of nose pressing. It is the enchange of the ha, or breath of life."
“It’s the essence of life to human kind. Where else does the breath of life enter us? You really have to live it and breathe it to explain it.”
Uncle Paul's 5 sons then performed the "Haka".
"Haka are performed for various reasons: for amusement, as a hearty welcome to distinguished guests, or to acknowledge great achievements or occasions. War haka (peruperu) were originally performed by warriors before a battle, proclaiming their strength and prowess in order to intimidate the opposition. Today, haka constitute an integral part of formal or official welcome ceremonies for distinguished visitors or foreign dignitaries, serving to impart a sense of the importance of the occasion."
My father in law, Brad joined the boys. He was pretty scary. ;)
The boys did an excellent job. I love Blaine on the right, he was so little, but so tough and into it.

3 comments:

Tami said...

Very cool. How fun that they did all of that for the reception! Looks like a fun party! What do you do if someone gives you a nose press and they have bad breath? :)

The Cluff Family said...

I loved the pics!! That was one of the best receptions I have ever been to, I loved it!! Oh and by the way, if they threw you up in the air, they would need to pick you out of the rafters;)!!!!

The Gardner Family said...

I heard the reception was awesome. I am so bummed we missed it. But very cool.