Need the lowdown on how to navigate multicultural weddings in Singapore? We’ve got you.
Ah, weddings in Singapore. The celebration of love has gotta be one of the most lavish occasions you can think of. Whether it’s an outdoor wedding or one hosted in a hotel, the venue will be decked out to the nines. You’ve got wedding cakes that are gorgeous to look at and taste even better. Not to mention the bride stealing the show in her beautiful dress. But wedding traditions in Singapore can be tricky.
In our multicultural society, you’re likely to get invited to more than one type of wedding. Wedding customs vary from family to family depending on their race and religion, and tend to blend with modern practices these days. But it’s always better to be safe than sorry and avoid making a faux pas. For the uninitiated, here’s a guide you can use as a rule of thumb.
How to navigate wedding traditions in Singapore
1. Chinese weddings
Chinese weddings are probably the most common type in Singapore. Despite modern twists in traditions, there are still some superstitions we can’t ignore. For example, it’s best to avoid black or white as they are colours of mourning in Chinese culture. You might want to avoid red too; that’s a colour reserved for the bride. Instead, go for bright colours with a modest silhouette.
It’s also customary to prepare some cash as a gift for the couple – simply drop off your red packet in a box at the reception table. The amount is up to you but typically varies depending on the wedding venue. If you want to cover the couple’s wedding banquet cost, check online for the ballpark number. Tip: stick with auspicious numbers like eight. So you can offer amounts like $88, $188, or $588 (you get the idea). We also recommend being prepared for the hours-long banquet celebration. It can be a lengthy affair, but it’s best to stay till the end when the couple and their parents say goodbye to guests as they file out.
2. Malay weddings
If we could only describe Malay weddings in one word, it’d be eventful. From the moment the couple gets engaged, families come together for parties to meet and celebrate. This also includes discussions on the dowry and wedding gifts. Traditionally, Malay weddings are held within void decks to embody the kampong spirit. But with modernisation and urbanisation, some of these practices have been adapted and moved to restaurants or hotels, though spirited festivities remain a constant.
The bride and groom are treated like royalty for a day with lavish decor setups and service. Money offerings are made as a blessing to the couple, and the amount is up to you. Tip: you might want to consider the venue, food costs, and your familiarity with the couple when you prepare the money. Malay folks aren’t superstitious about colours, but be sure to dress modestly as a sign of respect. And before all the activities wind up for the day, remember to step up to get a picture taken! The couple will be seated at a throne-like platform where friends and family are invited to come up to offer well wishes and take pictures.
3. Indian weddings
If you’ve never been to an Indian wedding, be prepared for bursts of lively energy and celebrations that’ll go on for days. That’s right, days. Depending on how closely the couple chooses to adhere to traditions, wedding activities can take up to a week to complete. Indian weddings have a ton of steps to them. This includes ceremonies at a temple and other traditional practices. As a guest, we recommend keeping your calendar free for the day in case these intricate festivities overrun. It’s good to prepare a sum of money depending on how close you are to the couple.
How the food is served differs if you’re going to a North or South Indian wedding. But expect an absolute feast of Indian cuisine. If someone offers you food, it’s good manners to accept it and sample the dish. Avoid saying no if possible. Indian weddings are also a great opportunity to gussy yourself up in traditional wear like sarees and kurtas. Remember to be colourful and avoid wearing white. If you’re attending the religious ceremonies within the temple, make sure you’re dressed modestly with your legs and shoulders covered.
4. Christian weddings
A wedding in a church is an especially beautiful affair, and even better when you know how to navigate it. We’d suggest you arrive on time (or early) for the ceremony. Pews may be assigned depending on how closely related you are to the bride and groom. Just avoid the front few rows as those are reserved for family and close friends. If you’re still uncertain, there are usually ushers within the building you can ask.
It’s a religious space, so dress respectfully and appropriately. Depending on how strict the rules are, you may not be allowed to enter the premises if your attire is sloppy. You might want to wear covered shoes too. If you have any large and visible tattoos, your safest bet is to keep them covered up. It’ll differ from couple to couple so if you’re close to the bride or groom, you can always check in just to be sure. When the ceremony comes to an end, wait patiently for the bride and groom to exit before you go.
Other general wedding guidelines to keep in mind
1. RSVP early if possible! This assures that the couple will be expecting you and you’ll have a spot at the reception.
2. This may be an obvious one, but don’t bring extra guests. Your invitation should state if you’re welcome to bring a plus one, so reply accordingly. Yes, that includes kids. If you’re unable to make it because of your children, the best thing to do is decline the invitation.
3. Stay out of the photographer’s way wherever possible. You’re free to take one or two pictures for yourself, but the photographer was hired for a reason. Keep out of the way so the couple can have their memorable day immortalised.
4. It’s important to remember that while a wedding is a celebration for the bride and groom, it’s also about their parents. If you can’t tell whether something is inappropriate or not, a good gauge to decide is if the couple’s parents will approve.
5. Remember to keep yourself off your phone and avoid having conversations during the ceremony. Whispered or not, you’ll disturb other guests and may be seen as disrespectful.
Now you know how to handle any kind of wedding in Singapore with grace.
