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From dresses to decorations, to venues to menus, inflation has been driving many wedding costs up over the past few years.

While inflation in Canada slowed to 2.5 per cent in July, local industry experts expect the price tag for getting hitched will continue to rise next year.

So, with the winter proposal season approaching, here are a few expert tips on how to make the most of your matrimonial budget.

Wedding planner Sarah Valencia, owner of Our Jonrah Events, recommends setting aside around $40,000 for a 100-person wedding.(opens in a new tab)

That's around $10,000 more than in 2019, she said, with food costs alone having risen around 30 per cent.

"There's a bit of a price sticker shock for people whose friends planned weddings in the past," Valencia said. "Things are really changing so fast."

Valencia said the average reception spend per guest can reach between $100 and $200 easily with food, decorations and other rental requirements.

Her top tip to save? Keep things intimate.

"Having smaller weddings, that's kind of the norm now," Valencia said. "if you have less people, you can invest into the wedding you desire to have, but not pay as much."(opens in a new tab)

Valencia recommends couples sit down and decide what matters most to them. Then, they can find savings in places they feel less strongly about.

"Then you kind of can stay focused on what your goals are for the wedding," she said.

If you're flexible with your date, venues can offer discounts during the off-season. You can also save on location costs by opting for a hall over a hotel ballroom, or by only throwing a reception.

"A lot of people are having more intimate ceremonies," she said. "Exchanging vows … in a nice setting that's personal to them and then having the reception."

"So spending more on where they're hosting, and then perhaps taking away a venue necessary for a ceremony."

The cake

Gloria Bednarz, owner of The Art of Cake, said smaller is better when it comes to saving on wedding cake too.

"We probably do more two-tiers and three-tiers than we ever have," Bednarz said. "We do a lot of single tiers."

People are foregoing the cake for absolutely everyone at the wedding.

"Bednarz said a portion of wedding cake from her bakery currently starts at around $6 per person, with more intricate cakes costing up to $20 per portion. 

If you do want to go all-out with a full-sized wedding cake, opt for buttercream and fresh fruit or flowers, rather than fondant and chocolate decorations.

But, if you don't mind something less traditional, opting for individual cakes can help save."

We're finding that people will order a smaller cake and then they'll just have cupcakes for the rest of the guests," she said. "It's a more cost effective option, and then there's no cake cutting charge."

An average cake for 100 people costs around $700, Bednarz said. That compares to around $300 for a six-inch cake for cutting plus 108 mini-cupcakes for guests.

"If you're gonna have minis, people can pick two different varieties," she said. "But you can't go with too many varieties, or some people will want to try every single variety."

Bednarz said some people may be tempted to turn to family, friends or home bakers for a cheaper wedding day dessert, but buyers beware."

We always get so many panicked phone calls every year, where the aunt said that she'd make the cupcakes for the venue, and then the hotel says, 'Oh, it has to come from a certified bakery,'" Bednarz said.

The dress

According to Shelley Grue, a long-time manager of the Bridal Debut boutique, the price of a designer wedding dress has risen between 15 and 20 per cent in recent years.

"It's tough because brides' budgets have definitely not increased," Grue said. "If anything, they've decreased." 

In her experience, a wedding dress is still an expense many people are willing to splurge on, Grue said, but there are ways to save some money if you're a bride on a strict budget.

"What some girls will do," she said, "is buy a really simple dress and then spend the money on accessories. Because the one thing with a simple dress is you pay less in alterations."

Alterations can cost between $500 and $1,000, with more detailed dresses costing much more due to the nature of embroidery, beadwork and detailing.

"If you have a fully beaded dress that's going to cost you more money to buy the dress plus alter it," she said.

Sample sales are another way to save on a designer dress, Grue said, with previous seasons' gowns discounted between 30 and 70 per cent off. August and January are good times to seek sales, as new styles tend to come in summer and winter, she added.

Grue said more brides are also looking into second-hand dresses, which can be a wallet- and environmentally-friendly choice. But you should always check the dress is clean, in good shape and the right length.

"I strongly recommend going to a consignment shop instead of going to the (former) bride's house," Grue said. "(And) always check the length is long enough in shoes when buying second-hand."

"Lots of people don't think about that, and they buy a dress … and then it's way too short."(opens in a new tab)

Sites like Azazie and JJ's House offer wedding dresses as low as a few hundred dollars, but Grue advises against shopping online.

"Some girls do luck out and end up with a beautiful, good quality dress, but most of them don't," she said.

"You're out of money for this online dress, and then you have to go buy another dress … wedding dresses are the one thing that are worth it to buy in store."

"Regardless of what you're planning to spend, Grue said it's important to plan ahead before you shop, including checking if your chosen boutiques carry dresses within your budget."

"The worst thing is to go into a bridal shop and everything's over budget," she said. "And then you end up falling in love with something."

"And I would book no more than three shops," she added. "Any more than three shops, you get totally overwhelmed."

It was a dream wedding, with a picturesque outdoor setting, a white lace dress and a delicious cake. The perfect day for golden retrievers – Bree and Bond – to tie the knot in front of their closest human and canine friends.

Pet weddings are on the rise in China, where government policies have not had much success in encouraging more people to marry in a rapidly aging and shrinking society where marriage and birth rates remain low.

The trend is gaining momentum thanks to the popularity of pets and the increasing willingness to spend for them. Spending on furry friends in 2023 rose 3.2 percent to $38.41 billion from a year earlier, the data showed.

People have weddings, why shouldn’t dogs?” said Bree’s owner Rye Ling, after his pet exchanged vows, promising to always share treats and play with her husband Bond.

As of 2023, there were more than 116 million cats and dogs in urban China, according to research firm Acuity Knowledge Partners. Evenly distributed across China’s urban population, about one in eight Chinese owns a cat or dog, and most owners are under the age of 40, according to the research firm.

Ling and his girlfriend Gigi Chen, who said they were in no rush to get married, spent months meticulously planning the dog ceremony, arranging professional photographers, designing wedding booklets and ordering a $110 custom-made cake featuring Bree and Bond figurines.

Yang Tao, whose Shanghai-based pet bakery prepared the cake, said she was initially surprised that customers wanted wedding cakes for their dogs.

“I think there will be more and more dog weddings,” Yang said, adding that she has already catered several similar ceremonies since her bakery opened in 2022.

“We’ve already got an order in a few months… for another dog wedding,” she said.

Ling said he hopes the ceremony will give Bree and Bond “a sense of ritual” and hopes to welcome puppies soon, Hina writes.

Choreographing your wedding dance isn’t just about mastering the steps — it’s about creating a magical moment that reflects your unique love story. Whether you’re aiming for a classic waltz, a sassy salsa, or a trendy TikTok routine, this is your chance to shine on the dance floor and dazzle your guests. Here is a simple guide on how to choreograph your dance. 

Step one: The song

Picture it: the music starts, you lock eyes with your partner, and together, you sweep across the floor in perfect harmony, leaving everyone in awe. What a way to kick off your reception, right? While the dance moves may enchant your guests, it’s important to remember that the song sets the mood and rhythm for your dance.Take the time to select a song that holds special meaning for you and your partner. Whether it’s a romantic ballad that brings tears to your eyes or an upbeat track that gets everyone on their feet, ensure it resonates with your personalities and the vibe you want to create on your big day. Once you have your song locked in, you’re ready to move on to crafting your dance moves!

Step 2: The vision

Now, the fun begins — it’s time to outline your vision and style. Take some time to discuss with your partner what kind of dance you envision. Are you dreaming of a graceful waltz, a sultry tango, or a fun and trendy routine? Consider your comfort level with dancing, especially in front of people, the amount of space you have and the overall theme of your wedding. Once you’ve agreed on the style and mood, you can start brainstorming specific moves and choreography to bring your vision to life. This step is about more than just the dance; it’s about creating a wedding dance that showcases your love and reflects your unique personalities as a couple.

Step 3: The moves

Now that you’ve chosen your perfect song and outlined your dance style, it’s time to bring your wedding dance to life with choreography! Immerse yourself in the music and let its rhythm guide you as you map out your moves.Start by breaking down the song into sections, marking where you’ll begin and end each part of your dance. Visualize how you want to move together, whether it’s graceful spins, playful dips, or a captivating combination of both. YouTube can also be an excellent place for inspiration; explore videos of wedding dances or professional performances to gather ideas that resonate with your style and preferences. But, if this part stresses you out or you don’t have enough experience dancing, you can hire a professional wedding dance choreographer. They can provide expert guidance, help refine your movements, and ensure your dance flows seamlessly from start to finish.

Step 4: Practice

Next, it’s time to practice and refine your choreography. Begin by learning each move and sequence you’ve planned. Take it slow, focusing on mastering the steps and syncing your movements with the music. Practice regularly with your partner to build confidence and ensure smooth transitions between different parts of the dance.Pay attention to details such as timing, posture, and expression as you practice. Visualize yourselves performing in front of your guests, and aim to convey the emotion and joy of your special day through your dance. Don’t hesitate to make adjustments to make the dance feel more natural and comfortable for both of you.Consider recording yourselves during practice sessions to review and improve your choreography. This will also help you identify areas that need more work or polish. Remember, the key is to feel relaxed and enjoy the process together as you prepare for your unforgettable wedding dance.

Step 5: Final touches

After refining your choreography through practice, the next step is adding the final touches and preparing for your big day’s performance. Here’s what you can focus on:Finalize Transitions and Details: Ensure all transitions between moves are smooth and natural. Pay attention to any details or nuances that can enhance the overall presentation of your dance.Work on Expression and Emotion: Practice conveying the song’s emotion through facial expressions and body language. Your dance should not only showcase your technical skills but also tell a story and reflect the love and joy of your wedding day.Coordinate with Your DJ or Band: If you’re using a DJ or live band for your wedding, coordinate with them to ensure they have the correct version of your song and understand any specific cues or timing adjustments you’ve planned for your dance.Dress Rehearsal: Schedule a dress rehearsal where you can practice your dance in your wedding attire. This will help you get accustomed to dancing in your dress and shoes, ensuring you’re comfortable and confident on the actual day.Relax and Enjoy: Lastly, take some time to relax and enjoy the process. Trust in your hard work in choreographing and practicing your dance. Remember, this is a celebration of your love, and your wedding dance is a beautiful expression of that love. Embrace the moment and cherish the experience of dancing together as you begin your journey as a married couple … and here’s to YOUR incredible wedding day! 

John Sauvageau’s plans to propose to his partner took a nasty turn this week when he realized he had lost the engagement ring and similar to a needle being lost in a haystack, the ring was lost somewhere in Stanley Park.

Sauvageau says he planned to propose while walking around the park, but it fell out of his pocket shortly before the big moment. He says he has had the ring for a while and was trying to find a good time to pop the question.

“Before I realized I lost it, I was a little nervous and like a little excited after I realized I didn’t have it on me that basically dissolved to full on, like, panic,” he told 1130 NewsRadio.

He says he and his girlfriend looked for hours for the ring, even hiring someone with a metal detector.

The ring is described as white gold with a diamond and has “Michael Hill” branding inside.

Sauvageau says it’ll take a miracle to find the ring, and suspects he’ll have to replace it.

If you do find it, he asks you to drop it off with Vancouver Police.

 Attire, travel, food, liquor, flowers: There’s no end to expenses when it comes to traditional weddings.

Through time, though certainly not always, it was the bride’s parents who were expected to pay the bulk of expenses, but like so many aspects of weddings, the etiquette has gotten more fluid. The ages of first-time bridal couples is going up. Parents might be older too, and thinking about saving for retirement or already on fixed incomes. 

So who pays and how much?

Now, “it’s really a candid conversation” between the couple and those who might want to contribute, said Lizzie Post, co-president of the Emily Post Institute and co-host of the “Awesome Etiquette” podcast. 

“Often it’s parents, but that’s not the case for everybody,” she said. “Never assume that anyone else is going to contribute to your wedding.”

Jove Meyer, a wedding planner and designer in New York, agreed.

“We have found over the years that it’s definitely shifted,” he said. “It’s hard to talk about money, but it’s one of the most important questions couples have to ask.”

Among U.S. users of the wedding planning site The Knot, parents on average contribute slightly more than half the wedding budget, with bridal couples covering the rest, said editor Sarah Hanlon.

Age and resources

The ages of first-time couples have steadily risen for both men and women since 1998. The median age for men getting married for the first time was 30.2 last year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. It was 28.4 for women. In 1947, the medians were 23.7 for men and 20.5 for women. 

“As couples marry later in life and are often more financially established, many choose to cover the majority of expenses, or even the entire wedding, themselves, sometimes accepting contributions from their families as a gesture of support rather than obligation,” said Myka Meier of Beaumont Etiquette in New York.

In other cases, parents might have saved over the years with a wedding fund.

What does a wedding cost?

The average combined cost of a non-destination wedding ceremony and reception last year among U.S. users of The Knot was $35,000. That was up by about $5,000 from 2022, likely due to inflation and the overall economic landscape. The average cost of a destination wedding and reception was $41,000. First marriages tend to be more expensive than second marriages.

Meyer said weddings can cost far more in places like New York City, where he sees costs as high as $100,000 plus.

Many young people look to Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok for wedding ideas, he said. The issue: Posters put up lovely photos with no price tags.

“I think a lot of couples today, not to their own fault, have no idea what a wedding costs,” he said.

Who used to pay what

Etiquette on ponying up was clearer in the past.

The list for the bride’s side was long: the engagement party, wedding planner, invitations, photography, videography, venue, bride’s attire, floral arrangements, decor, wedding cake, most reception expenses and more.

Among a groom’s responsibilities: The marriage license and officiant fee, corsages and boutonnières for family members on both sides, rehearsal dinner costs and, sometimes, alcohol for the reception.

All of those costs are now an open question for many couples for a number of reasons.

Gay weddings

Many of the couples that Meyer sees paying for weddings themselves are same-sex couples, and couples who face a lot of unwanted strings attached to money offered by parents.“

The people who are paying are those with the resources and/or those with the most requests. Money is power. With same-sex couples, more and more they’re paying for it themselves. That’s the largest number for sure,” he said.

Added Hanlon, of The Knot: “Now more than ever, couples are tossing out traditional wedding etiquette rules, especially those that are gendered or based on heteronormative relationships.”

Cultural considerations

Meier, the etiquette expert, noted that religious and cultural norms often dictate which family pays for the wedding, and how much they spend.

If steadfast etiquette isn’t in place, Nick Leighton of the etiquette podcast “Were You Raised by Wolves?” said it’s increasingly common for expenses to be shared among both families and the couple.

“Each party contributes what they wish,” he said. “That often means that each party will contribute a different amount, which is perfectly reasonable.

”Opting to spend the money on something else.

With bridal couples getting older, wedding costs often collide with other pricey desires, like buying a home. 

And parents who have saved up to make their children’s wedding dreams come true are more often leaving it up to offspring to decide what to spend those nest eggs on.

At 55, Tammy Mickle in Holland Patent, New York, is a semi-retired school teacher, working three days a week come fall. Her husband retired several years ago. Their only child, a 24-year-old daughter, is a school social worker living at home while she saves money. She and her boyfriend of about two years recently broke up.

The Mickles have been socking away money every week for their daughter’s wedding, amassing about $60,000. That’s $5,000 less than their daughter makes in a year.

“She’s been looking at houses recently and just the other night said, Mom, do you think instead of using that money for my wedding, could I use it for a house now? I was like, if that’s what you want to use it for that’s fine.”

Other parents said they, too, are leaving it up to the kids to decide how to spend wedding funds. Meyer warns that the money may not be enough in the long run to fulfill the wedding fantasies of their kids.“

Of course, wealthy people have the resources to do what they like,” he said. “We tell everyone a wedding isn’t worth going into debt for. You know, it’s an amazing party, but what else in your life are you looking forward to?”

… and here’s to your OUTSTANDING wedding day! 

Our digital photobooth can take the fun factor at your wedding to the next level with several unique features:

**Instant Sharing**: Your guests can immediately share their photos on social media, texting them to friends, or emailing them to themselves, making it a more interactive and engaging experience.

**Customization**: You can fully customize the digital experience, from the photo layout to the background, and even include your wedding hashtag or personalized messages on the photos.

**No Physical Space Limitations**: Digital photobooths often don't require the same physical setup as traditional ones. This flexibility means our photobooth can be set up in more creative locations, whether indoors or outdoors.

**Environmentally Friendly**: Since it's all digital, there's no need for paper printouts, making it a more eco-friendly option.

**Interactive Screens**: Our photobooths come with an interactive touchscreen that guide your guests through the photo-taking process, allowing for a smooth and user-friendly experience.

Our digital photobooth is not just a fun activity; it's an interactive experience that adds a modern twist to your once-in-a-lifetime celebration … and here’s to YOUR super fun wedding day! 

Choosing between providing a wedding playlist or letting the DJ choose largely depends on your preferences and the style of your wedding. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Your Musical Taste: If you have specific songs or genres that are important to you, sharing a playlist ensures those favourites are included. This can help create the atmosphere you envision for your wedding.
2. DJ Expertise: DJs are experienced in reading the crowd and creating a flow of music that will keep your guests entertained. If you trust your DJ’s judgment, letting them choose might lead to a more dynamic and enjoyable experience.
3. Guest Preferences: If you want to ensure a mix of music that appeals to a broad audience, you might prefer to give the DJ some guidance while allowing them the freedom to choose songs that will keep the party lively.
4. Logistics: Providing a playlist can save time during the event, as the DJ will already have a clear idea of the songs you want. However, be prepared for the possibility that some songs may not fit the moment perfectly.
5. Flexibility: Allowing the DJ to choose means they can adapt to the vibe of the event and make spontaneous decisions that could enhance the experience.

A balanced approach could be to provide a list of must-have songs or genres and let the DJ fill in the gaps. This way, you ensure your favorites are included while still benefiting from the DJ’s expertise in curating the overall experience...and here's to your FUN wedding day!

When it comes to weddings, there's often a difference between DJ requests and DJ demands. Here’s how they typically differ:

Song Requests:

1. Polite and Flexible: Guests make requests politely, suggesting songs they’d like to hear without insisting on them.
2. Considerate: Requests are usually made with respect for your preferences and the overall vibe of the event.
3. Open to Variety: Requests might include a range of genres or styles, showing that guests are open to a diverse playlist.

Song Demands:

1. Assertive and Specific: Demands are more forceful, with guests insisting on hearing specific songs or types of music.
2. Less Flexible: Demands often come with an expectation that the song will be played immediately or at a particular time.
3. Potentially Disruptive: When guests make demands, it can disrupt the planned flow of the event, especially if you or your wedding DJ has a carefully curated playlist.

For the best experience, it's imperative you set clear guidelines about music preferences before your wedding so everyone can enjoy a mix of requested tunes along with your chosen favorites without any added stress. It's your once-in-a-lifetime day you'll never forget...and here's to your stress free wedding day!

A club DJ can be suitable for your wedding, but it depends on your preferences and the type of atmosphere you want to create.

Pros:

• High Energy: Club DJs are skilled at creating a lively, energetic atmosphere, which can be great for the dance floor.
• Mixing Skills: They are adept at mixing tracks seamlessly, which can keep the energy flowing without breaks.
• Modern Music Selection: Ifyou enjoy contemporary or electronic music, a club DJ might have the right repertoire.

Cons:

• Limited Variety: Club DJs often specialize in specific genres like electronic dance music (EDM) or hip-hop, which may not cater to all your guests.
• Less Experience with Formal Events: Some club DJs might not have experience with the formalities and diverse musical needs of your wedding.
• Potential for Overwhelming Sound: The high energy and loud music typical of a club DJ may not suit all parts of your wedding, especially more intimate moments like dinner or speeches.

Considerations:

• Discuss Expectations: Make sure to communicate your musical preferences, the vibe you want, and any specific songs or genres you'd like to include.
• Versatility: Ensure the DJ is willing and able to adapt their style to suit the different phases of the wedding, from your ceremony to your reception.
• Experience: Ask if they have experience with weddings and can handle the flow, including all your announcements and timing.

A club DJ can be a great fit if you want a high-energy reception, but it’s important to ensure they can meet the diverse needs of your most special day!

The Filipino community in Newfoundland and Labrador celebrated four couples getting married at the same time on Saturday, and although it's not often seen in this province, it is a common practice in the Philippines. Family and friends gathered at St. Teresa's Parish in St. John's to witness not just one wedding — but four.The sounds of a piano and hymns echoed inside the church as guests took their seats. At the altar, the four grooms waited for their brides to walk through a veil of flowers. The parents waited in the middle to hand over the wife to the husband.Myhra and Mario Ibabao said their blessings, exchanged rings, and kissed. They couple said the entire group of four couples are all actually close friends who decided to get married at the same time to save costs but also to keep up with tradition."We call it as a mass wedding," Myhra Ibabao told CBC News."We were so happy with the community itself and our family and friends who are here to witness our wedding."

But Saturday wasn't the Ibabao's first wedding. The couple already had a civil wedding, have been together for over 14 years and have three children. But, Myhra Ibabao said, it was important to also be married in a church."We believe that having the sacrament of marriage would really make your relationship or your marriage last forever," she said.John Allester and Arcelli Letigio also had a civil marriage and wanted to receive the church's blessing. The couple initially considered having their wedding in the Philippines, but when the idea of marrying in Newfoundland came up, they decided to go with it.

The couples are all a part of a community group called Couples for Christ, which helped organize the mass wedding."We go by faith," Allester said. "We practise what worked before and stick to our beliefs. It serves a message to people that yes, there are some virtues worth keeping."Mass weddings are also a way to share the celebration with many people, said Allester's sister Althea Henion, who travelled from Pennsylvania for the ceremony."It's different families brought together," she said.And although most of the people in the celebration are of Filipino background, Henion said different families are coming together. Her husband is Ukrainian and was able to experience a new tradition."[It's] meeting different people and hopefully that the people that you meet will turn out to be have a lasting friendship and relationship with you," she said.

Hazel Ouano Alpuerto, considered by many in the community as a mother figure, led one of the brides down the aisle because her parents couldn't arrive from the Philippines."It is a joyous occasion for the Filipino community and I feel so honoured to be part of this celebration," Alpuerto said."I don't want to sound so mushy, [but it shows] how cohesive we are, how we are strong in our faith, how we can be one together."

Your wedding day marks the beginning of a beautiful journey where two lives intertwine to create a shared future. For many couples, weaving cultural traditions into their celebration adds depth, meaning, and a personal touch to this momentous occasion. Whether honouring your heritage or paying homage to a culture you admire, these elements can create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Exploring your roots

The first step in incorporating cultural heritage into your wedding is to delve into both of your backgrounds. Discuss with your partner the customs and rituals that hold significance for each of you. You might have fond memories of attending a cousin’s traditional Indian wedding, or perhaps your grandmother’s stories of her Greek upbringing have always fascinated you. These personal connections can serve as inspiration for elements to include in your celebration.

Family heirlooms and traditions

Reach out to family members for ideas and insights. They might have heirlooms or traditions you weren’t aware of that could add a meaningful touch to your ceremony. A vintage lace veil or a cherished prayer shawl could become part of your wedding attire, connecting you to your family’s history as you step into your future together.

A culinary journey

One of the most delightful ways to incorporate cultural traditions into your wedding is through food. Your menu can become an adventure across continents, offering guests a taste of the cultures you’re celebrating. Consider featuring signature dishes from your heritage as part of the main course or as appetizers during cocktail hour. A pasta station honouring Italian roots, a sushi bar representing Japanese culture, or a table laden with Middle Eastern mezze can add flavour and flair to your reception.

Music and dance

Music and dance are powerful expressions of culture that can beautifully enhance your wedding. From the ceremony to the reception, there are numerous opportunities to incorporate these elements. As you walk down the aisle, consider using traditional instruments or melodies from your culture. The notes of a Scottish bagpipe or the gentle strumming of a Spanish guitar can set a distinctive tone for your ceremony, immediately immersing your guests in the cultural experience. Your reception is where you can truly embrace cultural music and dance. Hire performers to showcase traditional dances, or arrange for them to teach your guests a few steps. A bhangra lesson or a brief salsa class can get everyone on their feet, creating joyful memories and fostering community among your guests.

Attire: A canvas for cultural expression

Your wedding attire offers another opportunity for you to express your cultural traditions. Whether you opt for a full traditional dress or subtle nods to your heritage, your choices can make a powerful statement.

Traditional garments

Some couples choose to wear full traditional wedding attire. This might mean a white kimono for a Japanese bride, a red qipao for a Chinese celebration, or a kilt for a Scottish groom. If a full traditional dress feels too formal, consider incorporating elements into a more modern outfit, such as using traditional fabrics or colours.

Accessories and details

Accessories can be a subtle way to honour your culture. Embroidered shoes, a beaded headpiece, or cufflinks featuring a family crest can add personal touches to your ensemble without overwhelming your overall look. These small details can carry great significance and serve as conversation starters with your guests.

Décor: Setting the cultural stage

Your venue’s décor can transport guests into the cultural traditions you’re celebrating. From the ceremony space to the reception hall, thoughtful decorative elements can create an immersive experience.

Ceremonial objects

Incorporating meaningful objects into your ceremony space is another way to celebrate your unique culture. A chuppah for a Jewish wedding, mandap for a Hindu ceremony, or unity candle for Christian traditions can be beautiful focal points that honour your faith and culture. These elements not only add visual interest but also provide a backdrop for the most important moments of your day.

Table settings and favours

You can also extend your cultural traditions to your reception tables by using traditional textiles as table runners, incorporating significant flowers or plants into your centrepieces, or offering culturally inspired favours to your guests. Small boxes of Turkish delight, packets of Italian wedding almonds, or miniature matryoshka dolls can serve as charming mementos of your special day, allowing guests to take a piece of your cultural celebration home...and here's to your culturally rich wedding day!