Weddings among African-American society have some distinctive essences although for the most part of the practices will be similar to most of the other communities in America. African-American weddings are generally vivacious and comprised of festivities not only to celebrate the union of the bride and the groom, but also to celebrate the gift of life as a whole. Basically, African-American weddings take much of the traditions from early Christian church wedding ceremonies, although today they incorporate some night-over festivities as part of the wedding ceremony. The ceremonial event is Christian-designed; with the occasion mostly held in a church. The priest usually reads out a sermon and gives some brief remarks on the importance of the institution of marriage and the need to respect it for the welfare of the society and individuals as well.

Just like the majority of the weddings in America, African-American wedding is a religious event. It is characterized by a passionate prayer session, hymns and sermons to celebrate the holy union of a man and a woman. Music, singing and dancing is also part of the occasion with gospel singers and bands performing.

The groomsmen and the bridesmaids are normally chosen from relatives, close friends or family members of the bride and the groom. All the groomsmen normally dress the same as the groom with the colors and patterns of their attires well coordinated, similar trimming of their tuxedoes and ties. They also have cummerbunds on and some flowers on their lapels. All the bridesmaids clad in gowns of the same color and similar arrangement of flowers to hold. Others include the flower girls and the ring bearers who also dress according to the theme color of the wedding party.

Traditional African wedding dresses and robes are in some cases worn in place of the usual white gowns and clothing in a bridal party. These attires are deigned from the traditional kente fabric common in Africa; with green, black, brown or gold colors. Kente cloth was commonly used as royal attire with the Ashanti people in Africa. To date, it has continued to be used as a magnificent outfit in most important events.

An African-American wedding reception is an elegant event of happy times. As much as the wedding ceremony is characterized of spiritual going-on, an African-American reception gives the guests, friends, relatives and family members a chance to celebrate the new union and life as well. The reception party normally takes place within a period of three to four hours. It is comprised of singing, dancing and all sort of enjoyment. A wide range of music genres are played to suit all the classes and ages of people; ranging from classic to modern popular songs. The reception theme is designed using the African traditions, with lots of white linens on decorations inside and outside the reception venue.

Wedding favors are also common with African-American weddings. They also practice "good-luck" rituals and jumping over a bloom before joining the reception as a way of commemorating their marriage. Some African-American couples believe that jumping over a bloom sweeps away evil spirits from their marital house.