How To Respect Cultural Traditions When Planning
Planning your wedding is challenging enough but trying to be faithful to various cultural norms adds a whole other layer. Below, I’ve gathered some helpful tips to ensure you and your partner feel heard and appreciated during this amazing celebration!
Do your research - While you probably have a good understanding of your own culture, it’s possible that your partner’s wants are outside what you’re familiar with. To ensure things run smoothly from the beginning it’s important to learn as much as you can about the customs, traditions, rituals and taboos. This day belongs to both of you and you should both feel comfortable and cared for during the planning process.
Communicate - Have open and honest conversations with your partner and families about the cultural aspects you want to include in your wedding. Discuss which traditions are most important to each of you and your families.
Prioritize - Decide which customs you want to incorporate into your wedding ceremony and reception. Prioritize those that hold the most significance to you and your families. Relationships are all about compromise so this step can be good practice for everything that comes after.
Be respectful - Show sensitivity to cultural differences and beliefs. Be mindful of any customs or rituals that may require special considerations or adjustments to be made.
Consult with experts - If you're not sure about certain traditions, consider speaking with cultural experts within your community to ensure they are incorporated appropriately. The last thing you want to do is accidentally offend people. When in doubt ask those who have gone before.
Blend cultures - Consider blending traditions from both cultures into the wedding ceremony and reception. This can be a beautiful way to celebrate your diversity while also creating your own set of values. This may be a difficult path with certain cultures but is certainly an option to look into.
Educate - Provide explanations or programs for guests who may not be familiar with certain cultural customs. This can help everyone feel included as they understand the significance of the various elements of your wedding.
Inclusive is always best - Select a wedding venue that is respectful and accommodating of diverse cultural practices. Ensure that the venue can accommodate any specific needs or requirements you need. Ask questions early on and be sure to check in as your date nears. Never assume when it comes to these things.
Catering - Incorporate traditional foods and cuisines from your cultural backgrounds into the menu. This can be a great way to celebrate your heritage with your guests.
Attire and decor - Incorporate traditional attire or cultural elements into your wedding. This can include clothing, colors, symbols and decorations that reflect both your backgrounds.
Music and dance - Bring in traditional music and performances whenever possible. You’ll broaden the idea of what a wedding looks like (and that’s never a bad thing).
Adapt - While it's important to honor cultural traditions it’s helpful to be open to compromise, especially if certain customs are not feasible or comfortable for you or your partner.
By taking these steps you can make your wedding unique to the two of you. These are only suggestions and there are many other ways to add significance to your day. If you know of any other ideas please leave them in the comments below.