Beads at a Louisiana Wedding: Second Lines, Favors and Colors
A Louisiana wedding often ends with music in the street. The band plays, the couple leads, and everyone follows, dancing and waving in the air. This is called a second line. Beads are not the heart of this tradition, but they fit right in as a fun extra.
This guide explains the second line, then gives ideas for favors and for matching beads to your wedding colors.
What is a second line at a wedding?
A second line is a walking, dancing parade with a brass band. It comes from New Orleans. It grew out of the parades of social aid and pleasure clubs, and out of jazz funerals. Today people also hold second lines for happy events, such as weddings and the opening of a business.
A second line has two parts. The “first line” is the brass band and the people being honored. At a wedding, that is the newly married couple. The “second line” is everyone who follows behind. At a wedding, that is the guests.
For a couple, the second line marks the start of their new life together. Often the line follows the band from the ceremony to the reception. Some couples hold it later, when the party moves outside.
Why do people wave handkerchiefs and parasols?
These two items are the classic second line pieces.
- Parasols for the couple. The couple often carries decorated umbrellas or parasols as they lead the line. Many couples like to decorate their own. You might add lace, feathers, ribbon, or your wedding date.
- Handkerchiefs for the guests. Guests wave white handkerchiefs in the air as they dance. Cocktail napkins work too. If you want a keepsake, you can have handkerchiefs printed with your names and wedding date.
Where do beads fit in?
Handkerchiefs and parasols are the true tradition. Beads are an extra. They are part of so many Louisiana celebrations that they feel at home at a wedding too. Here are some ways to use them:
- Beads on the parasols. Strands of beads can trim the edge of a parasol or hang from the handle. They sway and sparkle as the couple dances.
- Beads for the guests. A strand in the wedding colors, handed out with the handkerchiefs, makes the line look like one big family.
- Beads at the exit. You can hand out beads to guests as you leave the party.
If you are planning a second line, keep beads in balance. Let the handkerchiefs and the band lead the show.
What makes a good wedding favor for guests?
A good favor is something guests use that day, then take home as a memory.
- A handkerchief plus a strand of beads. Guests wave one and wear the other during the second line.
- A small bag on each chair. Put a strand of beads and a folded handkerchief in a small bag or tie them with ribbon. Add a tag with your names and date.
- Fancy beads for the wedding party. Bridesmaids, groomsmen, and parents can get a nicer strand. The store’s specialty beads section has larger and fancier styles.
- Boas for the dance floor. A basket of feather boas near the dance floor gives guests something fun for photos. See the boa section.
To work out how many favors you need, start with your guest list. Count the people who will take part in the second line. Then add the wedding party and a few spares. If you plan a bead toss too, add those strands to the total.
How do I match beads to my wedding colors?
Start with the colors on your invitations, flowers or dresses. Then pick bead colors that match or sit close to them.
- White, silver and gold. These go with almost any wedding. Pearl-look beads look classic and soft.
- One accent color. If your wedding has one main color, such as blush, navy or emerald, pick beads in that color and mix in white or gold.
- Black and white. This works well for evening weddings. It also matches the black or white parasols many couples carry.
- Keep it simple. One or two colors look calm and elegant. Too many colors can look busy in photos.
Look at the bead colors in daylight if you can. Lights at a reception hall can change how a color looks.
Is the second line safe for children at the wedding?
Many weddings have flower girls and ring bearers. Small beads and small parts can be a choking hazard for young children. Follow the age label on the product. For small kids, a handkerchief to wave is a safe and fun choice.
Where can I get wedding beads in Louisiana?
Mardi Gras Beads Factory has two stores, in Bridge City and Houma, Louisiana. You can order online and pick up at either store. That way the favors are ready well before the big day.