How to Be a Good Guest at an Interfaith Wedding Ceremony

Have you been recently invited to attend an interfaith wedding or occasion? Chances are you won't know that it's an interfaith wedding unless you are closely associated with the parties getting married. When cultures combine, it can be a very rocky road for the families. Family members may have a difficult time dealing with the new concept. Strong religions do not encourage couples to get married outside of their respected faith. However, as formal traditions take a back-seat in our modern world, we will see more interfaith unions being kept.

Wedding ceremonies are usually a combination of both cultures. You may have separate ceremonies. Example a Christian bride marrying a Hindu groom, may request to have a Christian wedding to follow her Hindu wedding. It may take place over a period of a few days.

As an invited guest, how should you respond to these different beliefs and cultures. Well, likely that hosts are already undergoing unnecessary stress trying to accommodate the desires of both families. You can do your part in these three simple steps:

Understand Your Role as A Guest
Likely, you were invited because this family wants you to enjoy and witness the marriage of two beautiful human beings. You responded by accepting the invitation. Bringing along an appropriate gift to the reception and wishing the newlyweds your warmest congratulations should be all that you are required to do. Be advised, that you should not ask other guests leading questions about the couple or question the traditions while they are taking place. This is rude and can create more tension.

Be an observer in the moment. This means, look around, listen to the new sounds, observe the rich traditions taking place. Enjoy that you are a part of the harmony taking place. If you anticipate that you will be offended by the traditions, it is wise to think about whether you should be attending this joyous occasion.

Be Ready to Try Some Cultural Cuisine
The dishes that are served at some of these festive occasions tend to be traditional foods associated with that culture. So, get ready to dive into some cultural cuisine that you've never seen or tasted before. Keep your mind open and be willing to indulge in new tastes. Of course, if you're not an explorer then take some Tums or other antacid relief medicine. Keep in mind, that many cultures are easily offended by guests who are not willing to take part in the meal. It's time to let you guard down and try something new.

Have a Great Time
Don't let the sounds of new music stop you from trying a turn on the dance floor. Likely, you will hear sounds that are unfamiliar to your ear. Some cultures have dancers that perform at their ceremonies. Be ready to take the floor and be respectful of their traditional dances. Do not try to imitate others as you may appear rude and condescending to their customs.

These tips are meant to help the reader to be understanding of a new culture or concept. It can also help them to make the most of their time in an out of the ordinary situation.