Asian-Themed Weddings: Zen Simplicity and Grace

Far from the land of Laura Ashley and yards of white satin, the Asian-themed wedding turns everything upside down. White is not cool in an Asian-themed wedding, being the color of death, but you’ll see lots and lots of red and black for luck and prosperity. Brides drawn to the Zen-like simplicity of an Asian-themed wedding often want to avoid the royalty pageant – and wind up with a ceremony that is elegant and often much less expensive.

The choice to have an Asian-themed wedding goes far beyond culture; many non-Asian couples are opting for this type of wedding because it is simply graceful and elegant. It honors simplicity and nature, simplifies the ceremony, and can tie your ceremony into a respect for the environment and the purity of something simple: love, without the trappings of pageantry.

Zen-Style Gear

So we’re going for something simply elegant, right? This might cause a moment of panic … what does that mean for your clothing, accessories, and decorations?

In an Asian-themed wedding, you’ll want to focus on simple lines in your gown; focus on flattering the best aspects of your body and setting off your glowing happy face with the clothing you choose. The focal point shouldn’t be your clothing, your clothing should accent you. Rich red colors, brocades in orange or gold, and even soft silks are perfect for the bride’s gown. For a bouquet, also try to think simple – stay far away from “fuss”. Something elegant like calla lilies are a gorgeous choice, or you could decide to kick it up a notch and go for the exotic look of a tiger lily. The idea is once again to accent the occasion and you within the occasion, not to overpower the ceremony with your finery.

Bridal hair should be dramatic; rather than romantic and curly (which can turn into a nightmare anyways), go for a sleek upsweep that is accented by a pearl or jade comb.

Bridesmaids’ dresses can be a lot of fun in an Asian-themed wedding. Picture glowing red or slinky black dresses with high collars and slit sides, accented by gorgeous Oriental parasols instead of nosegays, hair in an updo with chopsticks holding it all in place.

Centerpieces and accents should follow the same smooth simplicity carried throughout your clothing. Black and white stones surrounding red candles, lucky bamboo stalks, and magnolias are all gorgeous examples of how you can easily dress up your wedding. Other great floral choices include orchids, bear grass, and curly willow. One of the most beautiful table centerpieces I’ve seen was created from a Shoji style lantern, placed in a black stoneware saucer, lit up with deep purple orchids floating amongst black and white stones sitting inside the saucer and surrounding the lantern. Plus, you can make nearly everything yourself and save a ton of money in the process.

Have fun with the wedding favors, giving guests fortune cookies placed in take-out boxes or provide seed packets and invite your guests to plant the seeds; it is a beautiful metaphor for the love that grows daily between you and your newlywed partner. You could do a double-impact for the favors; those good luck bamboo stalks that are decorating your tables, placed in tiny stoneware bowls and packed with gravel would be a touching wedding favor and momento for your guests.

Checklist – Ideas and Resources for Your Asian-Themed Wedding

There really is no “right” way to do a wedding like this. Focus on a few central pieces that carry your theme, let nature explode throughout the ceremony and reception, and you’re going to have the time of your life. To get you going on your own Zen-sual wedding, here are some things to consider and places where you can get more information:

Colors & Motifs:

• Red & Black denote luck and prosperity, elegant notes to carry through your wedding.
• Black & White Stones create a smooth, solid Zen look.
• Chopsticks, Orchids, and Bamboo all promote nature and the Asian theme.
• Lanterns can be dressed up with a few flowers and smooth stones for simple beauty.
• Rice Paper makes a great touch for your invitations and thank-you cards, and sets up the whole theme.

Apparel & Accessories:

Remember to keep it simple and elegant. Strut your stuff in strappy sandals, a sleek red dress, and dramatic hair-do. Want somewhere to look?

• Bellissima Bridal Shoes – www.bellissimabridalshoes.com – Both their “Strappy Sandals” and “Stuard Weitzman Grace” collections have amazing selections to get you going.
• Brides by Trevor – www.bridesbytrevor.com – This wedding gown designer has a true eye for elegant simplicity. Check out his gorgeous Asian-themed example at http://www.bridesbytrevor.com/bridal_dress_designs_3.php
• Laang3 – http://www.cybamall.com/dragons/ – Want a truly authentic touch in apparel? This site is your one stop for smooth, authentic traditional Oriental clothing.

DIY Decorations:

Create a personal touch by making the decorations and centerpieces yourself – these sites will help you out

• Table Centerpieces – – Dark bamboo accented with bright Stargazer lilies, and it can all be done quick and easy.
• Bonsai Centerpiece -Using a few candles, willowy grass, and a bonsai tree, this centerpiece definitely creates an impact.
• Michaels – A variety of Asian-inspired decorating projects.

Invitations & Stationary:

Probably one of the most important feeling pieces to start with, these sites will get you on the right track with beautiful invitations and stationary.

• Ashton Jade – http://www.ashtonweddinginvitations.com Invitations with Oriental characters.
• Color by Design – http://www.colorsbydesign.com – A contemporary translucent invitation with stunning Asian Fans hightlighted with gold foils make this invitation perfect for a variety of events.
• Formal-Invitations – http://www.formal-invitations.com- Invitations with love coin charms and beaded sashes.