You don’t have to be afraid to face a multicultural wedding. With communication, mutual understanding, and a little outside help, it is possible to have an amazing elegant wedding. Here are three ways to accomplish just that.

Communicate

Don’t underestimate how important it is to communicate with everyone involved. You should expect to communicate with:

1. Each other
2. Your family
3. Your guests

Communicate With Each Other

What exactly are your expectations as the bride or as the groom? Early in the process it’s a good idea to communicate what you envision the wedding will look like. Just because you think you know your soon to be spouse in and out, doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to make assumptions. You just might find yourself completely surprised by the hopes and expectations of the other.

Communicate With Your Family

Families come with expectations too, and some cultures may have different views on who should be involved in various aspects of the wedding. Once you and your spouse-to-be are on the same page, the next step is sitting down with the family to understand what they expect to happen in your wedding.

Some things are more important than others, so know where your boundaries are and where you are willing to compromise. This can be a great relationship building exercise that you should go into with an open mind.

Yet, at the same time it is your wedding. If something makes you uncomfortable or is against your personal beliefs don’t be afraid to say no. Accepting other cultures doesn’t mean you must embrace everything they believe or include it in your wedding.

Communicate With Your Guests

Just as you are facing the challenges of navigating a culture different from your own, your guests will experience this at your wedding also. Simply explain the significance of a ritual or part of the ceremony in the wedding program so they can join in the celebration without confusion or apprehension.

Know What You Want

Take advantage of the beautiful aspects of both cultures. Explore exciting food options, learn a new type of dance, tap into ancient wedding traditions or consider an intricate dress design. But at the end of the day, don’t lose sight of who you are and what you want. While taking part in new and exciting experiences is a beautiful thing, your wedding will be the most memorable if it is a reflection of your individual personalities.

Get Pre-Marital Counseling

You’ve communicated with each other, so why bother with pre-marital counseling? Before you walk down the aisle, it’s good to have a neutral party involved. Additionally, pre-marital counseling can help you look at and face difficulties you may not have thought of. If you’re avoiding discussions on religion, children, and money, you need to talk it out with someone who can help you come to a mutual understanding. Avoid the arguments later by confronting questions in a healthy and calm way.

Beyond Expectations

Even if you’re not marrying someone from another culture, you will face struggles and frustrations along the way. The best thing to do, no matter who you are, is to let go of your own expectations, and reject being repressed by others expectations. This is a time of joy and celebration! Revel in the beauty of each moment, and let go of anything that steals that joy.

Check out our Tips To Navigate Your Interracial Wedding for more help and inspiration!

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Galina Hitching

U.S. Operations Manager at Fair Elise, blogger, painter, and natural wellness geek. I love having friends from different cultures and backgrounds, who challenge me to view life and design in a continually fresh light. Life Motto: “Everyone has dignity.”

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