We live in a big wide world and people fall in love from all different backgrounds. This means when it comes to the wedding day one may have to jump over some cultural difficulties.
This can come in many forms, for example, the brides’ family may want a traditional white wedding in a church while the grooms’ family could be Buddhist. Or maybe you are in an inter-racial relationship and you have two families’ culture from different sides of the world.
However rather then viewing this as a complication, you should use your cultural differences as a way of making your wedding offbeat and get the best of both worlds!
How can one do this? Well here are some steps that one could use.
Step 1 – Planning stage
Before you pick up any magazines, books or looking at websites, sit down and think about what cultural elements you wish to have and where. Maybe there is a custom that you wish to follow or wearing a specific wedding colour. Try and list all the things that are important to the both of you and then assign an element of the wedding to them.
Step 2 - Compromise
Time to think about your family and friends. It maybe your wedding day but unless you are not having any guest you must consider their feelings. Most are more then likely to be happy with your decisions but there will always be someone who will try and throw a spanner in your plans.
Therefore you may need to compromise in certain areas so it is best to sort this out as soon as possible to avoid future upsets and stress.
Step 3 – Research, research and research
Now it is time to look at magazines, books and websites to find what you want. Do not feel that you will need everything to be custom-made. You may be surprise with what you find from mainstream wedding suppliers. Remember it is what you do rather then what you buy that makes you offbeat.
However don’t be afraid to go off the beaten track in your research. Find suppliers from the country that your culture originate. Ask family members and friends for recommendations as it isn’t always obvious especially if you are not fluent in your cultures language.
If you still can’t find anything then consider custom-made. Etsy has an array of designers and artists who are capable of making your dreams come true.
Step 4 – Timing
Now it is time to start ordering especially if you wish to order from overseas suppliers. You may think this is an obvious thing to consider but you will be surprise how fast time flies once you start getting things together. Placing your order for overseas suppliers early is important as it will give you time to receive the items and inspect them. If they are not suitable then you will have the time to get it changed or find an alternative. Of course some things are not possible to receive ahead of time like the wedding cakes but it is a good idea to discuss your ideas with supplier to make sure they understand your requirements and importantly deliver it on your wedding day!
Hopefully with these steps you will help you with your multi-cultural wedding issues and remember if everything doesn’t go according to plan. Just run off to Las Vegas and get married by Elvis! (Only kidding)
