How to Plan an Ethnic Destination Wedding

What trends are you seeing in the world of multicultural and ethnic weddings?

Having two separate ceremonies– one for each religion

Dressing in the special garb that represents their countries.

Food – must have some type of food item prepared from their country

Food Stations that are ethnic specific.

Invitations that have two languages representing both cultures. \If, for example, it is a Christian and a Jewish wedding, they will have both a Pastor and a Rabbi for the ceremony.

Having a DJ/Band who can play music from both cultures.

How can couples who are blending two cultures add elements to each to their wedding for a harmonious look?

• Bride to dress in customary garb for the groom’s ceremony (e.g., American bride dressing in Indian outfit) and then changing to the American wedding dress for the American ceremony.
  
• Invitations having both languages of bride and groom.
  
• For the favors, use two items that represent each culture.
  
• For Prayers/ speeches/vows, have them said in both languages.
  
  

How can couples carry multicultural elements through all aspects of the wedding, from the ceremony itself to the wedding?

Providing their guests with a learning experience they will never forget. Explain to guests how everything works, what everything represents at the ceremony as well as at the reception. It is so wonderful to receive a booklet at the beginning of the ceremony detailing the two families’ culture as part of the program. A lot of times, they go into detail as to what the ceremony represents to each side of the family (e.g., special songs, special hand shakes, meeting of both sets of parents at the entrance of the hotel, etc. etc.)

What small touches can couples add to a traditional wedding to honor their cultures?

• Special desserts brought in for all guests to try.
  
• Special drinks (Mango Lassi at Indian weddings)
  
• Have the proper minister/rabbi for each type of ceremony
  
• Special lighting of candles to blend the two cultures together.
  
• Special music and dancing to reflect their two cultures
  
• Honor the Grandparents of each family as well as the parents by recognizing the importance of each of them and where they are from.
  

Photos courtesy Bethesda Marriott

Related Pages:

• Real Life Ethnic Weddings at the Bethesda Marriott, A Photo Gallery

To plan a Marriott wedding, call the Marriott of your choice and ask to consult with the hotel's wedding event planner. For more information on Marriott Hotels, Resorts, and Suites, call 1-800-228-9290 or see www.marriott.com.