Chinese Wedding Traditions

We will be honoring Lilly's heritage by observing some Chinese wedding traditions. We are hoping to create a blend of Chinese and Western traditions that will remain respectful of our heritage and also symbolize our mixed cultures and, don't laugh, our hope for peace and understanding between peoples of different backgrounds.

This page from the Chinese Historical and Cultural Project describes many of the ancient traditions.

Probably the biggest part of a traditional Chinese wedding celebration is the use of the very lucky color red. The bride wears red, red decorations are used, even red foods are served. Gold is also another featured color. It is a challenge to mix Western and Chinese wedding customs when white is the predominant color in Western weddings but is the color of mourning in Asian cultures. Chinese American brides (and Taiwanese brides who hold Western style weddings) often incorporate some of both.

Another big part of a Chinese wedding celebration is the Wedding Banquet. Guests at our wedding will be treated to a multitude of Chinese dishes (probably about 10), served family style. It is important to pace yourself at a Chinese banquet and not eat too much of each dish, because there is much more to come!

Chinese brides traditionally change gowns multiple times during the banquet. Lilly plans to observe this custom -- but only once. Chinese restaurants often provide a bridal changing room just for this purpose.

You have probably already noticed the "double happiness" character we've used on these web pages. Click here for background information on it. Typically the double happiness character is printed in gold on a red background and hung prominently at the wedding celebration.

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