34 South Asian & Western Fusion Wedding Ideas

More and more South Asians are blending eastern and western traditions. The wedding cake, a first dance and even a champagne toast are found in many weddings today.

If you are looking for a little more inspiration than just a cake, look no further. To create a fusion wedding first think of Hindu/Muslim traditions and western traditions and pick which type of tradition will compose your overarching wedding theme.

Then, pick traditions from the opposing set. Voilà! You have the making of a fusion wedding.

{via style me pretty build a board}

We broke down the traditions into elements to make it easy to pick and choose.

Indian & South Asian Traditions:

1. Agnidev - the fire
2. Garlands - flowers
3. Mangalsutra, toe rings, etc
4. Lengha/sari in gold, cream tones
5. Mandap (chuppah)
6. Henna for the bride and her friends
7. Marigolds
8. Rangoli
9. Deities and statues
10. Sangeet and dance performances
11. Buffet dinner/food service
12. Couple sits on the wedding stage

Western Traditions:

1. Bridal bouquet
2. Bridesmaids & groomsmen
3. Vows by the couple
4. Exchanging rings
5. The first dance by the newly married couple
6. Father-daughter dance at the reception- This always brings tears to guests
7. Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue - A classic
8. Reception speeches - Usually done by the father of the bride, best man, father of groom and maid of honor.
9. Bouquet toss
10. Garter belt toss- Not recommended as it is very revealing. But your husband can throw a football or something else instead.
11. Wedding cake - Style it South Asian with paisleys and bright colors
12. Flower girls - great way to incorporate your nieces and friends' daughters
13. Father walking daughter down the aisle
14. Gift bags for out-of-towners - They will appreciate a local touch
15. Formal aisle to walk down - Perfect to decorate with flower petals
16. Champagne toast - Father of the bride/groom speak to toast to their happiness. Opt for non-alcoholic sparkling wine if wanting to stay alcohol free

Total fusion:

1. Wedding dress in bright colors with embroidery, beads, etc - to give the Indian feeling. Wear a mang tikka to be stylish!
2. Indian clothes for the friends - Salwar kameez and ghaghra cholis work the easiest, but most women cannot resist saris.
3. Veil - turn that choli into a veil!
4. Men have henna on back of hands or head
5. Choreographed Indian dances by friends and family at the reception
6. Dessert table - mix Indian sweets with macarons and other treats

{photograph by David Tutera}

What are your favorite fusion ideas?

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