Lovely traditions abound!

I have seen this tradition done in different ways.  The general rule – the women on the left and the groom on the right.

Traditionally, after the ceremony – the Bride and Groom pay respect to the Groom’s elders by serving them tea -  the National drink of China.  It’s a way of showing respect, and introducing the Bride to the Groom’s extended family.  The Groom introduces his Bride to his family using their formal titles (first uncle, great uncle, etc.), and they both present cups of tea (each holding the cup in both hands) while kneeling on the floor – always the Bride on the left and the Groom on the right.  The elders sit in chairs – with the husband to the right of his wife.  In the case of the Groom’s parents – the Bride will presenting tea to her new Father-in-Law.

Lotus Seed and 2 red Dates are placed in the tea.

“First, the words “lotus” and “year,” “seed” and “child,” and “date” and “early,” are homophones, i.e. they have the same sound but different meanings in Chinese. Secondly, the ancient Chinese believed that putting these items in the tea would help the newlyweds produce children early in their marriage and every year, which would ensure many grandchildren for their parents. Also, the sweetness of the special tea is a wish for sweet relations between the bride and her new family.”

The order in which the new couple presents tea is as follows…

• Parents
• Grandparents
• Great Uncles and Great Aunties
• Uncles and Aunts
• Elder Brothers and Sisters
• Elder Cousins

In return for the Bride and Groom’s respect, they will receive red envelopes containing money or jewelry.

Not bad!

I have written about some very lovely traditions from many different cultures.  Some could be adapted to make your ceremonies more personal and meaningful!

Happy ceremony planning!

Thanks to the Chinese Historical and Cultural Project for the tradition information

Thanks to Pink fog Photography for the lovely picture!

Tags: Ethnic Wedding traditions

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