We were lucky enough to be invited to a local wedding. Talk about cultural immersion! All of our wedding expectations were hit by culture shock: yes, the bride wore white (but a traditional Vietnamese outfit), and they exchanged rings but not the way we know it.
The ceremony was held in the groom's family home, all decked out in red decorations and flowers. We sat at a long table among many, and were served the local tea as we waited for the happy couple to arrive. (The groom and a few friends went to pick up the bride and bring her to the house as is the custom.)
The ceremony begins with a representative from each family giving a speech, as the families come together. The bride and groom then go up to the alter of his ancestors to ask for blessings and for the bride to be welcomed into the family.
And while they were in that part of the house, we were entertained by folk singers, and singers who were friends of the family. The living room and dining room, and outside patio were full of friends and family as the music filled the house.
The tea kept coming, and there were sweets on the table to help celebrate the day.
They came back to the main area and exchanged rings; there were a few more speeches -- from honored friends, and the groom's father -- and then we were invited to dinner at a local restaurant.
We were all excited to get to what we considered the reception. The tables were set and even the windows were decorated for the occasion. The groom's father gave a nice general toast, and the couple went table to table thanking guests and making toasts with each group. And then the toasts kept coming: everyone went around wishing them the best, joining with people at each table. It was a fun, raucous affair!
And that was it, just dinner. All of us geared up for some dancing were... well, we weren't disappointed at all. We were just pleased to have been a part of this special, eye-opening occasion.
