We’ve had lots of experience with couples who come from different backgrounds/cultures and want to honor their differences within their wedding. There are a ton of ways to pay respect to various cultures, backgrounds and religions within a wedding. Below we have some ideas to share:

decor

One of our weddings wanted to subtly acknowledge her South Asian background, so she chose to do so through her decor. Even the smallest of nods - whether it be the flowers you pick, or the vases you use - can give guests a sense of where you come from and what matters to you!

food

Food is an excellent (and delicious!) way to pay homage to various cultures and their cuisine! We’ve had couples include Indian food in their appetizers, serve Peking Duck, or share a traditional dessert with guests, all as a way to honor their backgrounds (and let guests savor the flavors of those backgrounds as well!).

costume change

We’ve had several weddings where either the bride, or both the bride and groom changed outfits in order to balance tradition with modernity. Often, they don more traditional garb for a ceremony, but then change into more modern options for the reception - or vice versa! This is a great way to balance looking back at our pasts and looking ahead to the future!

other attire

Sometimes folks opt for a more subtle nod to cultures via cufflinks, boutonnieres, bouquets or other accessories and attire!

Carol and Gregg, Stephen Bobb Photography

additional cultural ceremonies

Additional ceremonies can also be added to a more traditional wedding structure to honor the couple’s backgrounds. Here, the couple chose to do a traditional tea ceremony during the reception - and in another, the Ethiopian groom and his family added some traditional elements to their reception as well!

Music

Music is an awesome and beautiful way to honor our backgrounds. It can be easy to add at various moments in the day - whether post ceremony (like this bagpiper!), or during cocktail hour. Music can be quite emotional and I love using it to help guests feel connected to the couple.

I hope some of these ideas have been helpful! Enjoy and celebrate your differences and backgrounds - it’s such a fun way to honor those you love and what makes you, you!