In Romanian wedding customs, bride kidnapping is a staged tradition in which guests pretend to abduct the bride so the groom must negotiate her return.
At a reception, friends may take the bride to another location, such as a nearby bar or landmark, while the groom is told that she has been “kidnapped.” He then negotiates a playful ransom, often involving drinks, a public declaration of love, or another humorous task. The practice is commonly presented as entertainment rather than a real abduction.
The custom has been reported in Romania and other parts of southeastern Europe, but its form is not universal and participation is voluntary. It should not be confused with actual forced marriage or non-consensual bride kidnapping, which are serious abuses.
Modern couples and guests may adapt or omit the game depending on comfort and local expectations.