Cultural Vows

Possibly one of the fastest growing parts of the wedding tradition is the saying of more cultural vows. Many people want to connect more with their cultural identity and one sure way of doing so is saying cultural vows during their wedding.

An undeniable part of who you are as a person is your cultural heritage. It drives the way you present yourself, your choice of clothes, your tastes, and even your personality. Cultures vary in their wedding traditions and tend to vary depending on the areas people live in and the country they are from. Many people now use some elements of their culture or combined cultures in their wedding.

In the United States, it is common for couples that come from colorful ethnic backgrounds to marry in the cultural traditions of their native ancestors. Yet the influence of the American culture for some makes them want to have a white wedding like they have always dreamed of. One solution is to bringing culture to a wedding and together. This way couples can share something personal with their guests and make it a profound tribute to the families that are now joined. Some couples go as far as to have guests fly to their native country to take part in some very elaborate yet traditional wedding ceremony.

A very inexpensive compromise is to incorporate some aspects of culture into the traditional white wedding. From having an ethnic menu to cultural vows any kind gesture can certainly set the mood for the wedding day.

As you plan your wedding vows you should remember that it is a solemn promise and, should not be taken lightly. You are making a commitment to each other so your words should have meaning to both of you.

If you have decided on using cultural vows because you believe that the words will be more meaningful than saying the traditional vows, then you may have to do some preparation. Before you begin preparation contact your local official on cultural vows. Find out from that person whether or not your faith or denomination allows cultural vows and what the requirements may be if it does.

If you are clear to use your cultural vows then now it's the time to find out what your cultural vows are going to be. At this point you will have to do some research on your culture to find out what the wedding vows are and what is required to happen before that vows are spoken. Your research should start with your family. Your parents and other relative will be able to give you some ideas as to what they are.

If you they are unable to tell you what you need to know then use up your local library of simple go unto the internet to find tour answers. A simple search will yield for you thousands off websites with cultural vows for the Celtic, African, Hindu and Irish cultures just to name a few. Check with a few websites to see if what they are all saying about cultural vows is consistent. Remember that in certain cultures before the vows are taken the couple must perform some task or say some oath or do something else, and if you are from a culture that requires this to be done you may have to add it to your wedding.

Once you have located your cultural vows you should read then aloud to see if they relay to what you would like to say on your wedding day. Then have them reviewed by either your wedding planner or bridesmaids. Get their views on what you have come up with, the vows you have found and the other elements and requirements that go with it.
If the couple is from different cultures then they could incorporate both cultural vows into the wedding.