Marriage and Family Customs

Men typically marry between 20 and 25 while women typically marry between 19 and 23. Typically, people do not marry until they have some kind of financial stability. Following the legally required civil ceremony, there is frequently a church wedding followed by a reception and dance. The prevalence of common-law unions is due to the fact that many Bolivians, particularly those living in rural regions, cannot afford the expensive cost of a traditional wedding. Children typically reside with their parents up to marriage and perhaps even after.

Most wealthy couples have only one or two children, whereas poorer families are traditionally larger. Most family decisions are made by the father, but the woman has a big impact on domestic matters. Women working outside the house is now more prevalent than ever at 37.7% (1999). Many elderly people reside with their children and families. Keep reading to discover more about Bolivian Culture, Customs and Etiquette.