Pleasant Ranch

There’s just something mysterious and utterly romantic about weddings that are covered in cultural traditions much like the ones that they have in many Asian countries. Interestingly, the countries on this side of the world have managed to preserve their rich culture so that traditions when it comes to wedding ceremonies cannot be overlooked that easily.

Even the western people find Asian-themed weddings quite the rage these days. More brides are growing interested with the idea of Asian-inspired ceremonies even when their culture is clearly from another side of the world.

China

In China, wedding ceremonies are elaborate affairs that symbolize the union of two families. They are mostly overseen by a matchmaker or some expert on making sure that traditions are observed. For instance, before the wedding day, the bride is supposed to live in seclusion with close friends so they can “mourn” her parting with her family. The day of the ceremony itself is carefully chosen according to astrological signs or Feng Shui. As part of tradition, the auspicious time for weddings does not begin at the top of the hour but on the half-hour (ie. 3:30). The ceremony itself is just attended by the couple’s families.

Japan

Traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies are just as elaborate. The bride wears a white kimono and is painted in white from head to toe as well. This is to symbolize purity and to basically tell the gods that she is a maiden about to get married. The groom wears a black kimono and the ceremony is attended by close friends and family. One highlight of the whole event includes the drinking of nine cups of Sake or Japanese rice wine by the couple’s family and friends. This is to celebrate the union of the two families.

Thailand

For Buddhists in Thailand, it’s important to have a monk bless the venue where the wedding ceremonies are held – usually at either the bride’s or the groom’s family home. During the ceremony itself, everyone sits together with the couple sitting on the floor or a makeshift stage, their hands connected by a flower chain. The oldest person in the group usually officiates the entire affair. He will soak the couple’s hands in water to wish them good luck with parents and relatives following suit. Where in China or Japan, black is considered prosperous, the color is considered for mourning in Thailand so if you happen to be invited to a Thai wedding, do not ever wear the color.

In case you really get invited to Asian wedding ceremonies always research beforehand about the proprieties of such events. Many Asians are still very particular when it comes to following traditions and customs so you wouldn’t want to offend anybody by being clueless about at least the basic ones.

A great way to continue this theme is to get a hand painted aisle runner for your wedding. They can be crafted to fit the asian themed wedding just perfectly. Find more information about these aisle runners and wedding runners at Signatureweddingaislerunners.com.