Asian Fusion
While the mixing of cultures in America is a given, sometimes fuses these traditions can be tricky. But, they don’t have to be – let’s take a look at customs that you can incorporate into your big day that is both Asian Fusion and American.
From China to Japan to other Asian countries, each culture has their own set of customs that have been passed down from century to century. Some modern couples opt to do two ceremonies, one honoring their parents and traditions, and one that is more modern to suit today’s culture of weddings.
In Chinese tradition, the wedding date is picked carefully according to astrological signs and birth dates, and the ceremony begins on the half hour to cement the couple’s good fortune. Chinese weddings are chock-full of colorful customs, often accompanied by the sound of firecrackers and gongs. Many modern brides change their bridal outfit up to three times! Who wouldn’t want more than one spectacular dress to debut? The three dresses include a traditional white dress, a traditional Chinese bridal dress for the tea ceremony, and a cocktail dress to send off the guests.
In Japanese culture, there are many symbols and customs ingrained in their wedding traditions. While the Western custom of exchanging rings has become increasingly popular over the years, the ritual of “san-san-kudo”, the three by three exchanges are rich with meaning. It is performed by the bride and groom and both sets of parents; each person takes three sips of sake from each of three cups. The first three represent three couples, the bride and groom, and their parents. The second three represent three human flaws: hatred, passion, and ignorance. “Ku,” or nine is a lucky number in Japanese culture. And “do” means deliverance from the three flaws.
In many cultures such as
Pan-Asian, symbols, colors, and different types of food mean good luck or fortune for the newlyweds. The different foods served all have special meanings, for example lobster might be served because redis a lucky color or clams served with both shells symbolize the couple’s union. Honoring your tradition is important, but so is staying true to your likes and dislikes of what you want on your big day. Honor is a big part of Asian culture, but what big day isn’t about giving a shout out to your parents an the people who’ve shaped who you’ve become? If you and your fiance are from different cultures, try to incorporate as much tradition as you both feel comfortable with. We guarantee your guests who are not familiar with them, will be dazzled by the Asian Fusion!
