Photography: Kina Wicks Photography
We've come across many weddings and the multi-cultural ones always have a special part in our heart. A celebration of love combined with different traditions in one harmony simply never failed to amaze us; the moments, the rituals, and even the decorations. Wondering how to do it beautifully? Get your cues here.
The Planning
This is the crucial part; take some time to discuss everything with your soon-to-be husband on what his wedding expectations are. Both of you should negotiate and reasonably weigh needs and demands from both sides'. There will be, of course, some adjustments from your expectations of a dream wedding. However, the fundamental preparation would be more difficult in a multicultural wedding celebration that often involves the whole big family. So, be patient, be welcoming of suggestions, and have your limitations set. If you feel things get too overwhelming, you could always opt for a more professional insight from experienced wedding planners.
The Ceremony and Reception
These two events are essential in your planning agenda. But the first thing you need to decide is which cultural ritual you'd like to have; whether it's yours or your fiancé's. Next, you could always incorporate a touch of the other cultures in the ceremony and reception. For example, you can incorporate typical cultural colors or fusion catering menu for the guests.
The Venue
After both of you agreed on the wedding agenda, you should find a wedding venue that accommodates your wedding ideas. For example, due to fire and safety regulations, some wedding halls don't permit open flames characteristic of Indian wedding celebrations.
The Wardrobe
Brides have great ideas about their dream wedding dress. Don't be pushy and end up in a strikingly mismatched wedding attire which is a big bridal no-no. Acquire the help of a professional designer and tell them how both of you want to have hints of several cultures in the wedding wardrobe. But if the two cultures are remarkably too contrasting, it would be best to have two outfits so you can change during between the events.
The Decoration
This might sound simple but it's actually tricky. Do some research on what your family and his want and to have in the wedding. This is the time for you to be creative and you could always ask a helping hand from the pros if you run out of ideas. You could put up beautiful cascading wall decoration from traditional patterned fabrics to evoke the feel of the wedding, for instance. One key to remember in decorating is to always keep to your color palettes.
The Knick-knacks
When both of you have different native languages, you should remember to have bilingual invitations and party agendas. Your wedding vows, for example. This important part will be less meaningful if your family and guests don't understand what you both are reciting. Next is the wedding music, be fair and have a mix of both of your local music styles. As for your wedding favors, you can select traditional items from both cultures as gifts in a pretty box or wrapped in fancy, decorated papers.
