Each Asian region has its own history of customs and traditions. These rituals are as unique as they are magnificent. The Far East has long been known for its air of mystery and peace. Social conventions, which are both sentimental and diverse, help add to the magnetism of Asian Wedding traditions. These Asian ceremonies are rich in traditions that span the categories of food, color, and music.

For example, it is tradition in the US that a bride wear white on her wedding day. However, in Japan, brides wear colorful silk kimonos. These nicely decorated and beaded gowns often emphasize the color purple, as it exemplifies love in Japan. In China, brides choose gowns of bright red because this color represents good fortune.

Food is often used in traditional ceremonies. In Thailand, the bride and groom must prepare a meal for the local Monks prior to the wedding. In India, the bride and groom grasp leaves, rice, and oats during their wedding ritual to symbolize the couple's health, well-being, and future prosperity. During an Indian ceremony, the bride’s parents will use milk and water to shower the feet of the couple as a symbol of chastity. In China, when a couple is engaged, parents of the groom can gift an entire grilled pig to the bride’s parents.

Other unique traditions include the Chinese tradition of lighting fireworks during the ceremony to scare away evil spirits. It is customary in Korea for a fortune-teller to call on the couple prior to the wedding, and view into their future. While each country has its own unique wedding customs, common with all wedding sacrament traditions is the sacredness of marriage and love.

Recognizing guests is also customary among all Asian lands. At the wedding ceremony in Thailand, only the immediate family and friends will be present. Attendance at Indonesian weddings often tops 1000 guests. Without regard to the size and location of the ceremony, showing honor and reverence to the people we hold most dear is universal. In the Far East, Asian wedding favors are a way to demonstrate appreciation for such a remarkable event.

When choosing Asian wedding favors, be original and considerate. In Japan, sharing sake is a long tradition which honors the blessedness of marriage. Ask guests to honor the couple in a toast, and then gift them a beautiful set of sake cups for a wedding favor. Combining imagination, as well as rituals and traditions, will be a way to honor the couple’s history and future.