We having a non-religious ceremony because FI and I are of two VERY different religions and his father would not approve of mine if they knew. We are doing a hand-fasting similar to what is done in my religion but we are just saying it's an Irish thing.
His mother is German and we wanted to add a German tradition in to help throw his family off and to add some of his heritage. The only thing his mother can come up with is the kidnapping of the bride and the groom has to go around and beg money from the guests until the sum is met. The bride is then released and the couple keeps the money.
I'm not fond of this idea and I don't think it will be receaved well by mostly American guests. Anyone know of any German traditions that don't involve begging for money?