Despite the fact that Asia actually includes the whole of Russia, India, and the East, most parties with an Asian theme simply focus on the Eastern and Indian elements of this continent. The intense social culture and enticing heritage of these ancient lands means a beautiful, memorable and very special theme for your big day. [...]

Despite the fact that Asia actually includes the whole of Russia, India, and the East, most parties with an Asian theme simply focus on the Eastern and Indian elements of this continent. The intense social culture and enticing heritage of these ancient lands means a beautiful, memorable and very special theme for your big day. Whether or not one or both of you have an Asian heritage, this theme remains a fun and effective one for engaged couples to consider.

Theme Colours
Asian colours are often based on the rich, earthy spices and exquisite natural landscapes of the areas. Rich reds, chocolate browns, dramatic burgundies, rusty oranges and natural mustard-yellows are perfect colours for such a theme. China, Japan, Vietnam and other Eastern countries also favour a bright royal blue, postbox red (often thought to represent good fortune) and a flamboyant magenta in their traditional colour schemes. Asian textiles are characterised by their gorgeous embossment and embellishment. Tassels, beads, mirrors and floral embossing are typical of both Eastern and Indian styles.

Attire
Indian and Eastern bridal couples usually opt for brightly coloured outfits with dramatic, detailed embellishments, rather than the more conservative white gown favoured by Western brides. Brides can wear a number of different outfits during the course of their wedding day, which involves several outfit changes and the fun element of enjoying so many different colours and details. The style(s) of the gown you select will depend on the Asian country that you wish to represent. Although veils are uncommon in Asia, Indian brides may wear one that is the same colour of their dress.

The groom and his male entourage look fabulous in sherwanis, which is a knee-length (or longer) top with full-length, matching trousers. This outfit can be of any colour, and is similarly detailed in its embroidery and embellishment as the bride.

Bridesmaids will look beautiful in matching kimonos, saris or Chinese-style dresses.

Décor
Colours, textures and details play a central role in the décor of your ceremony and reception venues. These fun elements and ideas can be incorporated into your wedding day for the perfect Asian setting:

• Bamboo placemats under stark white or hand-painted plates.
• Put a pot of Green Tea (add a touch of honey or use a Jasmine flavoured tea) on the tables instead of a jug of fruit juice.
• Incense sticks or bamboo branches in an ornate Asian vase are absolutely stunning table centrepieces.
• Alternatively, use a wicker basket filled with colourful, fragrant curry spices or a trained snake to represent the Indian snake charmers. It is vital that guests do not touch or hurt the snake, though.
• Serve the wedding meal in a commercial Chinese take-away box, perhaps with a personal message printed on it.

Asian cultures are all about symbolism and detail, so use these elements extensively in your décor wherever possible. It may appear over the top at first, but is very effective in conveying the theme.

Guest Favours
Work along with your wedding theme and give each of your guests a more personal, memorable gift as a ‘thank you’ for their attendance. Asian-themed wedding guest favours may include:

• A set of personalised chopsticks.
• A bottle of specialised soy sauce or fish oil (for cooking).
• A traditional Eastern folding fan.
• Candy sushi.
• A bespoke blend of Indian curry spices with a recipe attached.
• Personalised fortune cookies.
• A lantern and candle.

Photos Courtesy of Project Wedding & Bakati