There are many great ways to celebrate the bride and groom’s heritage, even if the wedding is not a culturally specific traditional ceremony. If you’re looking for a good way to incorporate the happy couple’s backgrounds, here a few ways you can do so:

Food: Whether at the bridal shower or reception, food is a great way to celebrate heritage. You can get food from a restaurant that focuses specifically on a certain cuisine. If using a caterer, ask them for some different options that will highlight the culture you looking to celebrate. (If they can’t, ask for a clause in your contract stating that bringing in homemade food is okay, then ask relatives to bring a dish.) A great bridal shower gift could be a book of traditional family recipes. You can also ask that the shower/wedding cake be decorated in a culturally specific way, utilizing things like flag colors, national flowers, etc.

Drink: In the event tailoring the food to a specific cuisine is impossible, serve drinks famous for coming from a specific place, like sake for a Japanese wedding, or chai for an Indian celebration.

Decorations: Beyond the traditional facets, a chuppah, for example, try using color as a way of celebrating heritage. The Chinese, for instance, favor red as a symbol for prosperity and good luck. You can use colors of the national flag, flowers, even use traditional symbols on centerpieces.

Music: Play a few songs throughout the shower/reception, either traditional or in a native language. The families can also do dances that celebrate their heritage.

Don’t forget that different colors & flowers can also be incorporated into the dress of the bride, groom, and attendants. Be it a tie or a full outfit; play up the different aspects you want to focus on. Even if all you can manage is a bouquet/centerpiece of native flowers (hibiscus & orchids make a stunning combination for Pacific Island heritage), what matters is that the happy couple is celebrated for who they are and who they want to be.

Posted by Jillian, a Dot-arilla Blogger