What Happens In A Traditional Chinese Wedding?

There is a rich tapestry of customs and traditions that are deeply ingrained in a traditional Chinese wedding ceremony. One such ritual takes place at the family altar, where the bride and groom pay homage to various deities and ancestors.

Paying Homage to Heaven and Earth

During the ancient ceremonies, the bride and groom would stand at the family altar, offering their respects to heaven and earth. This act symbolizes the couple’s gratitude for being brought together and their desire for a harmonious union.

Honoring Ancestors

Another essential aspect of a traditional Chinese wedding is the paying of respects to the family ancestors. This act acknowledges the role of past generations in shaping the present, and it seeks blessings for the couple’s future together.

Paying Tribute to the Kitchen God

In addition to heaven, earth, and ancestors, the couple also pays homage to the kitchen god, Tsao-Ch?n. This deity is believed to oversee the household and bring blessings for a happy and prosperous marriage.

The Tea Ceremony

One of the most iconic rituals in a traditional Chinese wedding is the tea ceremony. During this symbolic act, the couple serves tea, usually with two lotus seeds or two red dates in each cup, to the groom’s parents as a sign of respect and gratitude.

The Exchange of Vows

Another crucial moment in a traditional Chinese wedding is the exchange of vows between the bride and groom. This heartfelt declaration of love and commitment signifies the beginning of their journey together as a married couple.

The Red Wedding Attire

In Chinese culture, the color red symbolizes joy, luck, and happiness. Therefore, it is customary for the bride to wear a traditional red wedding dress, known as a qipao, while the groom dons a red silk gown called a changshan.

The Double Happiness Symbol

Throughout a traditional Chinese wedding, you may notice the presence of the “double happiness” symbol. This auspicious motif, often seen on decorations and attire, represents good fortune and marital bliss for the newlyweds.

The Dragon and Phoenix

Another common symbol in a traditional Chinese wedding is the dragon and phoenix. The dragon represents the groom, while the phoenix symbolizes the bride, signifying the perfect balance of yin and yang in marriage.

The Joyous Banquet

After the solemn rituals, the celebration continues with a lavish banquet. Family and friends gather to feast on sumptuous dishes, toast the newlyweds, and wish them a lifetime of happiness and prosperity.

The Red Envelope Tradition

During the wedding reception, guests present the couple with red envelopes containing money or gifts as a token of good wishes and blessings. This tradition is a gesture of support and goodwill for the newlyweds’ future together.

A Union of Two Families

Ultimately, a traditional Chinese wedding is not just a union between two individuals but a merging of two families. It is a celebration of love, heritage, and the continuation of cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations.