If you’ve never attended an Asian wedding, you might be wondering what to expect, how to prepare, and what to wear. Asian weddings are very different from western weddings, and they can be very elaborate and intricate, often lasting several days. Here’s what you can expect at an Asian wedding.
The Guest List is Huge
Asian weddings are usually attended by hundreds of people, including extended family members, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. The guest list can be quite overwhelming, and you might not know most of the people there. However, that’s the beauty of it, as you get to interact and meet new people and family members.
The Dress Code is Traditional
The dress code for an Asian wedding is very different from what you would expect at a western wedding. Women usually wear saris, salwar kameez, lehenga cholis, and other traditional outfits, while men wear sherwanis or suits. The attire is usually colorful and ornate, with intricate embroidery, beading, and sequins.
The Wedding Venue is Grand
Asian weddings are often held in grand venues, such as hotels, banquet halls, or palaces, depending on the budget, location, and preferences of the bride and groom. The wedding venue is decorated beautifully with flowers, lights, and other decorations, and there’s plenty of seating and food stations throughout the venue.
The Ceremonies are Elaborate
Asian weddings are comprised of several rituals and ceremonies, usually culminating in the actual wedding ceremony. These ceremonies can last several days, and they often involve the participation of family members, priests, and other religious figures. Some popular ceremonies include the Mehndi ceremony, Sangeet ceremony, and Haldi ceremony.
There’s Plenty of Food and Drink
Food and drink are an important part of Asian weddings, and you can expect to eat a lot of delicious food during the wedding festivities. The food is usually served buffet-style, and there are often several stations serving different types of cuisine, such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Sri Lankan. There are also plenty of drinks, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic, depending on the preference of the couple.
There’s Lots of Dancing and Singing
Asian weddings are known for their lively and colorful dance performances, with family and friends putting on choreographed dance routines or impromptu performances. You’ll also hear plenty of music, from Bollywood hits to traditional folk songs, depending on the region and culture. Even if you’re not a great dancer, you’ll have plenty of fun watching others dance and singing along.
The Bride and Groom are the Center of Attention
Above all, an Asian wedding is about celebrating the love and union between the bride and groom. They are the center of attention and everything revolves around them. You’ll hear plenty of speeches and toasts in their honor, and you’ll see them decked out in traditional attire, often adorned with jewelry and henna designs.
Conclusion
Attending an Asian wedding is a truly unique and enriching experience, and it’s an opportunity to witness and celebrate the merging of two families and cultures. While it can be overwhelming and confusing at times, you’ll have plenty of fun and make lasting memories. So, dress up, bring your appetite, and get ready to dance the night away at an Asian wedding.
FAQ
Can a guest wear black at a Chinese wedding?
In Chinese culture, the color black typically symbolizes mourning and is often worn at funerals. Therefore, guests at a Chinese wedding are generally advised to avoid wearing black attire as it is considered inappropriate for the occasion. Additionally, red and white are also avoided as they are traditionally associated with death and mourning respectively.
In modern times, the color black has become more commonly worn and accepted at Chinese weddings, especially in urban areas. However, it is still considered best to avoid wearing black if possible. If a guest does choose to wear black, it is important to make sure the outfit is not completely black and incorporates other colors or accessories to brighten it up.
It is recommended to err on the side of caution and choose a more festive and celebratory outfit that reflects the happiness and joy of the occasion. Colors such as pink, gold, and red are especially appropriate for Chinese weddings as they symbolize good fortune, prosperity, and happiness. By choosing a colorful and culturally appropriate outfit, guests can show respect and appreciation for Chinese traditions and customs.