I’m a 19-year-old traveller wife & I think non-gypsy brides are too ‘old’ – getting married at 30 is practically ancient
A 19-YEAR-OLD traveller bride has revealed that she thinks that non travellers get married way too old.
Zoey, who got married at just 18 years old, often shares insights into life in the traveller community via videos posted to her social media channels.
In a recent TikTok video, she discussed with a non-traveller friend things that they find strange about other people’s cultures.
“I find it weird that in your culture you get married at an old age”, she said.
“You don’t get married until you’re 30 or 40 years of age, in our culture that would never happen.”
In response, Zoey’s friend said that often people don’t meet the love of their life until they are older, and “you have to kiss many frogs to find the prince.”
“It’s not like that in our culture”, Zoey said.
According to ONS, the average age for women in the UK to get married in 2023 was 33, but travellers often get married when they are still teenagers.
Zoey revealed that although in the past, arranged marriages were very common in the traveller community, this is becoming less of the case.
Discussing her own husband, she said: “I picked him myself.”
However, she revealed that travellers are not allowed to have boyfriends and girlfriends, and have to keep their relationships a secret from their parents, until they get married.
She added that of the girls she knows that have had arranged marriages, most of them were not happy, and ended up getting divorced.
Zoey’s friend then said that she finds it weird that many travellers leave school when they are very young, usually between the ages of 10 and 13.
Zoey responded that it is now more common for girls to stay in school later, but added that boys don’t really attend school at all.
The video, which was posted under the username @zoey_pon, has likely left many people open-mouthed, as it has racked up over 50,000 views on the video sharing platform.
TikTok users raced to the video’s comments section to share their thoughts.
Traditions in the gypsy/traveller communities
Nomadic lifestyle: Traditionally, many travellers maintain a nomadic lifestyle, living in caravans and moving frequently. This mobility is a core aspect of their identity, reflecting a deep connection to freedom and independence.
Strong family bonds: Family is central to traveller culture. Extended families often live and travel together, providing a strong support network. Marriages and social events are significant community affairs, reinforcing familial ties.
Distinct Language: Many travellers speak Shelta, also known as Cant or Gammon, a distinct language that mixes elements of Irish, English, and other languages. This language serves as a cultural marker and a means of private communication within the community.
Religious practices: The traveller community often follows Roman Catholicism, with religious festivals and milestones like baptisms, communions, and weddings being particularly significant. However, individual beliefs and practices can vary widely.
Unique celebrations: Events such as horse fairs and traditional weddings are major social gatherings for travellers. These occasions are marked by elaborate preparations, vibrant attire, and communal participation.
One person said: “This is so cool.”
Another person said: “This is awesome.”
A third person posted a laughing face emoji and said: “They keep it a secret!”
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