Showing abundant amounts of tolerance, hope, hospitality and understanding, interfaith weddings often bring out the best in each religion. Just like @HuffingtonPost says, “Interfaith marriage is one of the most persistent spiritual realities and challenges of our time”. However, although they might be a positive symbol of unity, planning an interfaith ceremony can have its challenges.
With couples often keen to include aspects of both religions in their big day, working out what will go where and how it will all come together isn’t easy. So to help you create a harmonious, happy, and memorable day, we’ve put together a few tips on planning the perfect interfaith wedding.
Give both religions equal footing
In order to keep all parties happy at your interfaith wedding, you need to ensure you give both religions equal airtime. Favouring one set of traditions over the other could lead to conflict, and may end up with one set of relatives feeling rejected and left out of proceedings.
Which faith goes where?
The first thing you’ll need to decide is which aspects of your respective religions you want to include in the ceremony and reception. Think about which traditions mean the most to you and which will be most easily understood by members of the opposite group. Think about how these different elements will slot together and how the event will flow. If you’re unsure which elements of your religion’s wedding traditions are most crucial, talk to a parent or religious leader to learn more.
Two ceremonies or one mixed ceremony?
When planning your interfaith wedding, you’ll need to decide whether you want one ceremony that combines both of your religious traditions or if you want two separate ceremonies. Sometimes, couples opt to say their vows in a secular setting – before moving on to a religious venue to receive a blessing. Alternatively, you could create a completely unique ceremony of your own, with the cooperation of a helpful officiant. This would allow you to mix your respective religious traditions and create a memorable wedding for your guests to enjoy.
Keeping it secular
Another option for your interfaith wedding is to keep the ceremony secular. Though your families may be less keen on this approach, it could help to prevent arguments and will allow the focus to be on you, rather than religion, as you say your vows. You can then incorporate aspects of your religious traditions in your reception, using this more relaxed part of the wedding to really appreciate your roots.
With a bit of planning, diplomacy, and understanding, there’s no reason your interfaith wedding can’t be a truly wonderful event. To find out more about planning the perfect wedding, or for more ideas and inspiration, take a look around our site today.
