As people are traveling and migrating more than ever before, many of us (myself included) find ourselves in relationships with people from outside our nationality and/or culture. Usually, it’s great! You get to learn about new holidays, languages, try new foods, and maybe even get to visit their country.

Then comes the wedding planning

And the wedding stress, but not just any wedding stress. No, you are now tasked with having to combine traditions, foods, and (sometimes) ceremonies. It can be done and it will be amazing, but maybe you’ll need a little guidance in balancing your family’s desire to serve an entire roasted lamb with your in-laws vegetarian preferences.

Meet Christine Godsey, founder of CG & Co Events and specialist on multicultural weddings. She’s been planning these events in the DC area for 12 years (and BEAUTIFULLY, I might add) so, I’ve combined our top tips for pulling off an amazing, blended wedding:

1. Let’s start off with the most important one: This is YOUR wedding. Keep in mind the traditions and beliefs you hold as a couple, because those are the ones that come first.

Yes, you don’t want to upset your family. Yes, most of the time they’re the ones paying for it. But most of all, they want you to be happy. So before you read the rest of the list, remember that the most important people of the day are you and your fiance, and it’s about your union whatever that looks like.

2. Think about traditions that have a special meaning to you or your family

Just because you or your parents (or grandparents) came from a certain place or religion, doesn’t mean every aspect has to make an appearance at your wedding. Really narrow down the things that are important to you and it’ll be much easier to incorporate.

3. Be sure to ask your parents what is important to them, 9 times out of 10 they will certainly feel strongly about including certain traditions into your ceremony

Most of the time, you will end up compromising a little to make your parents happy. However, many of the traditions your parents will insist on will have to do with the ceremony. Have them make a list so you can go over it together and discuss what will actually be a part of your day.

4. Get creative with fusion foods, music, performances to highlight both cultures

The best part of multicultural weddings! Find a caterer that can put a custom menu together using key flavors or dishes from both cultures. Maybe your first dance song can be your choice and a traditional dance performance can be done for your fiance’s side. Really play around with these aspects to make your reception the best of both worlds.

5. Check with the parents of your fiance to learn about any religious dietary (vegan, vegetarian, jain, kosher, halal, etc) or alcohol restrictions. If these are not addressed early it could unnecessarily offend guests

Whether it’s through extremely clear buffet labeling, strategically placed bars, or making sure the vegetarian option is gluten free, it’s definitely important to go over this one early. Food is the center of many cultures and the last thing you want on your wedding day is upset guests.

6. Sometimes, the only compromise is to do everything

If you have the means, don't feel bad about doing 2 different ceremonies or 1 extended ceremony to incorporate all of the elements for both traditions. Some people serve one cuisine at the rehearsal dinner and the other at the reception. Others will have the main wedding in one country and a small ceremony in another. It’s completely normal in some cultures for wedding celebrations to span across multiple days and a variety of events.

7. Everyone, yes everyone, will have an opinion about what you should do so be prepared to stand firm in some areas.  It helps to have a planner for these types of situations

Please refer back to tip #1 on who’s opinion is the most important. If you’re having trouble, a planner is a great 3rd party to have. They’re amazing at blending your traditions and preferences the best way possible, but they’re also the best mediator when it comes to sorting out details.

Get in touch with Christine at www.cgandcoevents.com and be sure to check out all her beautiful events on Instagram @cgandcoevents for a little wedding inspo.

Happy planning!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Bridal gown shopping can be a daunting part of your wedding checklist.

If you are like us and love shopping, the sheer amount of gown options is overwhelming. If you dread the idea of stepping into a store to find a new pair of jeans, then gown shopping is something that you will put off as long as possible. No matter which one describes you best, what you need to understand is that your bridal consultant will use her expertise to find you the most memorable dress of your life. The experience should make you feel beautiful, confident, and ready to marry the person of your dreams.

To help you prepare for your bridal appointment, we have created a list of questions you should be ready to ask and answer during the course of your consultation. We recommend going in with an open mind, a Pinterest board of inspiration pictures, and neutral colored underwear.  

The top 5 questions you should be asking your professional bridal consultant: 

1. What would you recommend based on my body type?

- No matter what, though, you should choose your gown based off of what makes you feel best, not just what you are expected to wear. Also know that bridal sizes are significantly different than street sizes. Leave the numbers to the consultant and know that you will never be ordering that size again! 

2. How do you bustle this gown?

- Make sure your consultant shows you how the bustle will look on the gown. You should also record the tailor showing you the final bustle so that even after a glass of champagne, your maid of honor will be able to get you ready for your first dance with no delays. 

3. How would you accessorize my dream gown?

- Sometimes you can get discounts by ordering your accessories at the same location as your gown! Sticking to one location for all of your gown needs is the best way to ensure consistency and possible discounts. 

4. What is delivery time right now?

- Are you asking for something on your gown that would be considered custom and would up the cost and the turnaround time?

5. How much are alterations?

- Also remember that alterations mean different things at different salons, so make sure your consultant goes into detail about what they consider alterations. Does their price include full fittings, a bustle, and steaming? 

The top 5 questions your bridal consultant should be asking you: 

1. What is your budget?

- When deciding on a budget don't forget about alterations, shoes, and any other accessories you may want. Be specific about the budget you give your consultant, she/he will need to know how much you would like to spend on your gown in order to pull properly from the sample options. 

2. What makes you feel beautiful?

- This is not what your mom thinks, what you think you should think, or what some stranger on the internet wants you to think (Hi!). Your consultant wants to know exactly what makes you feel your most stunning when you look in the mirror. 

3. How do you picture yourself looking on your wedding day?

- This means picturing yourself surrounded by your flowers, your venue, the bridesmaids dresses you will be selecting after your bridal appointment. Your gown will set the tone for your entire wedding. 

4. What are your favorite features of your body?

- Do you like your collar bones? Let’s show them off! Do you like your legs? Get a gown with a slit!

5. What are your least favorite features on your body?

- Would you prefer to cover your arms? Maybe think about doing an off-the-shoulder moment. Don’t like cleavage? Let’s look at high neck options and switch things up! 

There are thousands of wedding gowns for you to choose from. Enjoy the shopping process, but never forget the reason for the shopping adventure. You stopped dating after you met the man (or woman) of your dreams, stop shopping once you find the gown of your dreams!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here