Chinese Weddings
Chinese Weddings
October 12, 2005Posted By weddings
More articles on the Weddings topic: Wedding Traditions
A Chinese wedding is very different from those in the western world. It combines all the glitz and glamour of the familiar white wedding with many traditional rituals. They can be up to two-day affairs.
Chinese weddings and wedding traditions have transformed over the last thirty years, sometimes in dramatic fashion.
Historically, the couples were selected by parents, but today most young couples get to make their own decisions. Obtaining medical clearances and official paperwork is relatively simple - as it is here in the western world.
Luxurious ceremonies with all the bells and whistles were introduced to the Mainland sometime in the mid 1980's. From that time onwards wedding businesses have proliferated successfully throughout the country.
Wedding companies are typically all inclusive service and retail vendors - providing everything from your basic photography and cars to honeymoon planning and even the wedding dress. The cost of a wedding is a little bit less than a typical budget here - about $15,000.00.
Good luck is always a concern when planning a wedding, moreso in China. Odd numbered days are generally regarded as a poor wedding date choice. Most select an even numbered day on both the Gregorian (western) calendar and on the Chinese Calendar. There are several other factors involved in selecting a day - enough so that there are several books written on the subject.
As early as four o'clock in the morning, the bride begins her wedding day by putting on make up and getting dressed with her friends. Brides always wear at least a little bit of red. The bride is then whisked away in a convoy of at least three cars, preferably red with white ribbons and red roses as decorations.
Seating arrangements are a careful act of diplomacy, ensuring that respect is shown to each of the grandparents, parents, relatives, influential friends, social friends, workmates, and acquaintances.
During the reception, the bride and groom will change into traditional attire. The couple exchange rings at the reception, but don't very often wear them after the ceremony.
Presents are given at the reception, frequently cash in a red envelope. The western idea of a wedding registry is more often than not rejected.
Chinese Weddings Commentary
October 13, 2005 03:08 PMTammy
My best friend from vancover had a chinese wedding last year. It was a great comprimize because her parents who are from China wanted her to have a full traditional chinese wedding.
But her husand is from BC, and wanted a more traditional north american wedding
it all worked out well i the end :)
November 22, 2005 07:11 AMJames Povey
I Love chinese weddings, the food is delish and i love the clothing. The lovly simese cats running around and the delightful scent of rice and soy sauce. Aww yes i do love chinese weddings.
JAMES POVEY
