How to Effortlessly Combine Two (or more!) Cultures in A Wedding
As wedding planners based in New York City and beyond, we’ve had the honor of designing celebrations that blend traditions, families, and histories at some of the most iconic venues in the world. In fact, my partner Alex and I celebrated both of our cultures in a modern way during our Paris wedding weekend, so I can definitely put myself in your shoes. What we’ve learned is that when two cultures come together in a single wedding day, the result can be incredibly meaningful. A multicultural wedding day allows for each detail to be curated with intention, respect, artistry, and a modern touch that feels authentic to the couple.
With experience comes expert guidance, so that’s why we are sharing a few simple yet elevated ideas for weaving two cultural identities into one unforgettable multicultural wedding celebration.
A Wedding Outfit Change
A wardrobe change is more than a fashion statement when it comes to multicultural weddings. It’s a storytelling moment. If you and your partner come from different cultural backgrounds, incorporating multiple looks allows you to honor the richness of each heritage while allowing you to wear the outfit you have always dreamed of.
Multicultural Cocktail Hour
Cocktail hour is the perfect opportunity to introduce guests to the flavors that shaped your upbringing. Not only can you incorporate these dishes into cocktail hour, but you can also carry them into your wedding dinner. Curate a menu that features the signature dishes paired with beverages unique to both cultures. This allows your guests to explore both culinary traditions while enjoying a beautifully blended experience reflective of your shared story. Cocktail hour is also a great time for entertainment that celebrates your heritage, such as Chinese Lion Dancers.
Floral Design & Inspiration
Florals have the ability to communicate heritage in a subtle yet powerful way. Whether your culture is known for specific blooms, symbolic colors, or traditional arrangements, these details can be woven elegantly into a modern floral design.
Live Cultural Music & Entertainment
Music carries the heartbeat of every culture, and incorporating live performances is one of the most memorable ways to honor you and your partner’s backgrounds.
Traditional Wedding Ceremonies
If you’re blending cultures, your ceremony is the most meaningful place to reflect that union. Couples often choose to integrate rituals from both sides; whether through readings, blessings, symbolic rites, or dual officiants. Whatever it is, we can make it happen in a modernized way.
At the end of the day, blending two cultures in a single celebration is all about balance—honoring the traditions that shaped you while creating a wedding that feels authentically yours. Thoughtfully weave both cultures into every moment, elevate the elements that speak to your story, and shape a celebration that beautifully reflects the two of you coming together.
New York Wedding Planner | Brittney Bartling | BLB Events
Planning a multicultural wedding in New York requires more than just vision—it demands expertise and flawless execution. That’s where we come in. As a full-service wedding planning team, we specialize in curating elevated, multi-day wedding experiences that reflect your style while keeping everything on track and within reach. We'll help you define your vision, determine a realistic budget, and assess if your dream weekend aligns with the logistics and costs of a high-end celebration in this region. If you're serious about hosting a wedding here - let’s connect!
Planner - BLB Events | Photographers- Kendall Rae, Eryc Perez de Tagle, and Ian Holmes Photography.Photos by Kendall Rae Photo, Eryc Perez de Tagle, Forged in the North, A Fist Full of Bolts, The Anti Bride, and uncredited via Pinterest.