Wedding Ceremonies For Different Cultures And Religions
By: Lesley-Ann Graham
You’re American, she’s Chinese. You’re Jewish, she’s Buddhist. Yet, in spite of your differences, you’ve decided to make it official and get married. So, how do you arrange the ceremony with such obviously different cultures and religions?
Some couples opt for one of them to convert to the same faith, and follow that religion’s rites. Others will try to combine elements of both (a really tough thing to do). The easiest solution by far is to simply have multiple weddings.
Multiple weddings simply means, getting married more than once. It’s a compromise especially when both sides of the family insist on your following tradition - their tradition. Still the compromise isn’t that bad.
Contrary to what you may think, having multiple marriages does not necessarily mean a drastically more expensive wedding budget. You can actually save on some costs, like the marriage license - you don’t need three, just the one. After the first ceremony, you’re already married.
An option is to get the legal aspect out of the way first, and have the civil ceremony. This is normally officiated by a judge in the city of your residence. All you really need are the license, rings, the clothes you want to wear (gown not necessary here) and any witnesses from among your friends you want.
With that done, the ceremony of either faith becomes an affirmation of your vows, according to your chosen customs and beliefs. Which will come first, the Jewish or Buddhist ceremony, is something that you will need to sit down and work out together, and maybe with your rabbi or master.
Don’t forget to have a celebration of your union. It doesn’t need to be an elaborate affair but it is still your first affair as a couple. Have a blast and enjoy being together!
Lesley-Ann Graham runs WeddingTrix.com - a valuable wedding planning resource with articles, tips and advice to help you plan your perfect wedding. Visit Lesley-Ann’s wedding blog for more free wedding planning help and advice.