INTRODUCTION
Rationale for the study
America and Vietnam are two distinct countries with notable cultural differences, particularly in their wedding customs While they are located on different continents and possess unique beliefs and practices, globalization has led to a narrowing of these differences as people increasingly embrace diverse cultures while retaining elements of their own Weddings hold significant importance in both societies, not only for the couples but also for their families, often involving formal rituals This article explores the similarities and differences in wedding ceremonies between Vietnam and America, providing readers with valuable insights into these cultural traditions.
Students in the Foreign Language Department face challenges in core subjects related to culture, including British culture, American culture, and Cross-Cultural Communication To address these difficulties and bridge the knowledge gap, the author has chosen to conduct research focused on cultural topics, aiming to provide valuable information for others with similar concerns.
“Wedding custom” is one which most impresses the author due to its various cultural aspects and informative massages hidden in every single feature
The above reasons are the motivation and driving force for the occurrence of this research.
Aim and objectives of the study
This study is aimed at comparing wedding customs in Vietnamese and American cultures Therefore, the following objectives are set to fulful the overall aim:
Identify typical features and stages of wedding customs in Vietnamese culture
Identify typical features and stages of wedding customs in American culture
Figure out the similarities and differences between wedding customs in Vietnamese and American culture.
Research questions
To gain the objectives which are mentioned above, the following research questions were raised:
Question 1: What are typical features and stages of wedding customs in Vietnam?
Question 2: What are typical features and stages of wedding customs in America?
Questions 3: What are the similiraties and differences between Vietnamese and American wedding customs?
Scope of study
This thesis explores the wedding customs in Vietnamese and American cultures, tracing their evolution from the Feudal era to the present day The focus is on three key stages of the wedding process: pre-wedding ceremonies, the main wedding ceremony, and post-wedding celebrations.
Significance of the study
Understanding the wedding ceremonies of Vietnam and the United States is crucial for enriching research on these cultural practices This exploration not only aids in preserving and promoting the valuable traditions of both Vietnamese and American weddings but also fosters the development of a sophisticated Vietnamese culture that reflects its national identity.
Design of the study
This thesis consists of three main parts as follow:
Part 1: “Introduction” presents thereotical and practical background of the study, the aims, the research questions, scope, significance and the design of the study
Part 2: “Development” consists of two chapters
- Chapter one provides some basic definitions and classification of
“culture” and “marriage” in Vietnam and America.
Chapter two examines the distinctive characteristics and phases of wedding customs in America and Vietnam This analysis serves as a basis for comparing the similarities and differences between the wedding traditions of these two nations.
Part 3: “Conclusion” summarizes all the main points presented throughout the study It also presents the limitations of the study in which the author states the reasons for the study’s limitations, and suggestions for further research.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Custom
Customs are enduring human activities that evolve over time, recognized and passed down by communities across generations Unlike fixed rituals, customs are adaptable yet maintain a cohesive social practice within various groups, including families, clans, and social classes They encompass a wide range of cultural etiquette, particularly those linked to significant life events such as birth, maturity, marriage, and aging, as well as seasonal and labor-related activities.
2.1.2 Importance of culture in daily life
Culture encompasses the physical and mental value systems of creators, validated by the community, and shapes individual identities across societies It is integral to daily life, embodying beliefs and lifestyles that inspire and encourage human growth As societies evolve, the demand for spiritual culture intensifies, necessitating a balance between material wealth and cultural enrichment Culture serves as a driving force for development, unlocking human creativity and harnessing internal strengths to foster social progress Ultimately, culture plays a vital role in the continuous improvement of individuals and communities.
Typical Vietnamese customs
Vietnam's customs boast a rich tradition spanning thousands of years, evolving into a customary law that holds greater influence over the people than formal legislation Throughout the nation's tumultuous history, these customs have been shaped and refined, reflecting the resilience and cultural identity of the Vietnamese people.
Vietnamese culture is continually evolving in response to social and cultural trends While some traditional customs may have diminished, many still persist, showcasing their significance and beauty in contemporary Vietnamese life.
The tradition of betel chewing, which dates back to the era of the Hung Kings, has been a significant cultural practice in Vietnam for thousands of years This custom is still observed by the Vietnamese and various ethnic groups today, symbolizing brotherhood and marital bonds Over time, the significance of betel chewing has evolved to encompass themes of hospitality and friendship, reflecting the warm nature of Vietnamese culture.
The tradition of consuming betel nut during Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, reflects the rich cultural heritage and beliefs of the Vietnamese people and various ethnic groups While Tet is celebrated in January or February, other ethnic groups have their own unique New Year celebrations, such as Chol Chnam Thmay in April for the Khmer and Katie in October for the Cham Balamom people This diversity highlights the significance of New Year festivities across different cultures in Vietnam.
To welcome the new year, from time to time with influences from China,
Vietnamese people add to other Tet customs such as Tet Nguyen Tieu, Tet Han Thuc, Tet Doan Ngo, Mid Autumn Festival,…
Marriage, childbirth, and funeral customs have been integral to Vietnamese culture for centuries and continue to play a significant role in the lives of the Vietnamese people today.
Typical American customs
In American culture, a handshake is the common greeting when meeting someone for the first time, regardless of gender, while hugs are reserved for close friends Kissing is rare, especially among men Introductions typically include both first and last names, with a friendly greeting such as "Hello, I am " or a more casual "Hi, I am " A common response to an introduction is "Pleased to meet you." It's customary to use first names in most social and professional settings, but when addressing university professors, it's important to use their title and surname (e.g., Professor Smith) unless they specify otherwise.
In America, shaking hands is a standard greeting used by both men and women during initial meetings and subsequent encounters Americans typically engage in handshakes that involve a full grip, as opposed to just fingers, to convey friendliness and enthusiasm A firm handshake is essential, as a loose grip may be interpreted as a lack of confidence or indifference While it is uncommon for Americans to use both hands in a handshake, the traditional practice remains a key aspect of social interaction.
In the United States, phone etiquette typically begins with a greeting of "Hello." When calling a business, the person answering will often state the company name followed by their own If you reach the intended contact, simply introduce yourself with a "Hello" and your name If not, politely inquire about the person you need Most Americans have answering machines at home, and businesses frequently utilize voice mail systems, allowing you to leave a message Ensure you clearly state your first name and provide your phone number for a callback, keeping your message concise and straightforward.
In the United States, tipping is an essential practice, particularly in restaurants where service charges are not included in the bill Customers typically leave a gratuity of around 15% of the total amount, with 20% being customary for exceptional service.
In situations of poor service, a tip of 10% may be appropriate, while standard tipping practices generally recommend 15% of the total bill Common scenarios for tipping include haircuts, taxi rides, luggage carriers, parking attendants, and bar staff If no invoice is provided, customers are encouraged to tip between $1 to $5.
On December 10, 1948 the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted and proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights In article
16 – right to marriage and family, the right declares that
All adults, regardless of race, nationality, or religion, have the fundamental right to marry and establish a family They are guaranteed equal rights in all aspects of marriage, including during the union and upon its dissolution.
(2) Marriage shall be entered into only with the free and full consent of the intending spouses
(3) The family is the natural and fundamental group unit of society and is entitled to protection by society and the State.”
According to the United States Supreme Court, there are at least 14 cases since 1888 rules that marrige is a fundamental right, for example:
Marriage is "the most important relation in life" and "the foundation of the family and society, without which there would be neither civilization nor progress." (Maynard v Hill, volume 125.U.S 190,1888)
The right "to marry, establish a home and bring up children" is a central part of liberty protected by the Due Process Clause (Meyer v.Nebraske, volume 262.U.S 390, 1923)
Marriage is "one of the basic civil rights of man" and "fundamental to the very existence and survival of the race." (Skinner.v Oklahoma ex rel.Wiliamson, volume 316.U.S 535, 1942)
The concept of marriage as stipulated in Law on Marriage and Family
2016 are as follows: “Marrige is relationship between husband and wife after marriage registration.”
Marriage is a societal arrangement that establishes a physiological relationship between a man and a woman, forming a bond that is emotional, social, and legal Often stemming from love, marriage serves as a fundamental relationship within families across various cultures The wedding event typically signifies the official union, while legal recognition occurs through marriage registration.
Marriage typically involves a husband and a wife, but polygamy allows a man to have multiple wives While some countries recognize same-sex marriages, others are still fighting for legalization In Vietnam, current marriage and family laws do not prohibit same-sex unions, yet they also fail to officially recognize them.
Cultural background significantly impacts marriage customs, with culture encompassing both material and spiritual products developed throughout history In a broader sense, it includes ideologies and the corresponding political systems Notably, the differing attitudes towards marriage and religion in Vietnamese and American societies highlight the key distinctions in their marriage customs Historically, Americans and Asians have held contrasting views on love and marriage, further emphasizing these cultural differences.
Western cultures typically view marriage as a romantic union, where love precedes the decision to wed In contrast, Eastern cultures, particularly in Vietnam, see marriage as a contractual arrangement heavily influenced by family approval, with the expectation that love will develop after the marriage In Vietnam, the consent of both families is crucial, making it challenging for couples to unite if their parents disapprove.
A study by Hoang Van Van explored the attitudes of American, Chinese, and Indian students regarding love and marriage The research highlighted distinct perspectives among the three groups, focusing on four key values that shape their views Each group demonstrated unique cultural influences on their understanding of romantic relationships and the institution of marriage.
When it comes to physical attractiveness, Americans place a higher emphasis on appearance in their choice of a spouse compared to Indians and Chinese Additionally, there is a shared belief among Americans that a wife should continue to prioritize her beauty and appearance even after marriage.
Confiding is a crucial aspect of relationships, and cultural differences significantly influence this practice Unlike many American students who believe in sharing all thoughts between spouses, most Indian and Chinese individuals advocate for maintaining certain boundaries in communication A notable number of Indian men, in particular, view confiding in their wives as unwise, highlighting a preference for discretion in sharing personal thoughts.
A fundamental principle in marriage is the concept of equal partnership; however, many Asian students, particularly Indian students, tend to disagree with the American perspective on this issue They often believe that women are required to make greater sacrifices in a marriage compared to men.
The study highlights the significance of trust built on love, revealing that a greater number of Asian students believe husbands should inform their wives of their whereabouts when arriving home late In contrast, Asian wives feel entitled to request details of their husbands' activities, while American wives tend to rely on their husbands' love and integrity, trusting them to act appropriately without obligation.
The comparison of the four values suggests that young Asians and American counterparts’view in love are not similar
Overview of wedding customs
A wedding is a ceremonial event that unites individuals in marriage, with traditions and customs varying widely across cultures, religions, and social classes Typically, weddings include the exchange of vows, the presentation of gifts such as rings or flowers, and a public declaration of marriage by an officiant Special attire is often worn, and the ceremony may be followed by a reception Additionally, elements like music, poetry, prayers, and literary readings are frequently included, along with superstitious practices that trace back to Ancient Rome.
Many cultures have embraced the Western tradition of the white wedding, characterized by the bride's white dress and veil, a practice popularized by Queen Victoria's marriage While some view her choice of a white gown as a symbol of extravagance, it also reflected her values of sexual purity In contemporary society, however, wearing a white dress and veil is typically uncommon for a woman's second or subsequent wedding.
The tradition of using wedding rings in religious ceremonies in Europe and America has uncertain origins, with one theory linking it to the Roman belief in the Vena amoris, a vein thought to connect the ring finger to the heart, symbolizing the bond between couples Historian Vicki Howard suggests that the perception of this practice as "ancient" is likely a modern construct, as the concept of "double ring" ceremonies, where both partners exchange rings, only emerged in the United States in the early 20th century.
The wedding ceremony's exit, known as the "send off," features traditional practices such as the newlyweds bowing and kissing the knees of elders in Ethiopian weddings In many Western cultures, as well as in countries like India and Malaysia, this send off often involves throwing rice or seeds at the newlyweds, symbolizing prosperity and fertility Contrary to common concerns, using uncooked rice in this celebration is not harmful to birds.
A wedding ceremony is typically followed by a reception or wedding breakfast, featuring key rituals such as speeches from the groom, best man, and father of the bride, as well as the couple's first dance and the cutting of the wedding cake Modern traditions now often include a father-daughter dance and a mother-son dance, adding a personal touch to the celebration.
Common wedding customs associated with various religions and cultures 13 2.7 Concluding remarks
Christian churches universally recognize marriage as a sacred institution, offering various forms of blessings to couples However, the terminology and theological interpretations differ significantly among denominations, with terms such as "holy matrimony," "sacrament of marriage," and "holy ordinance of marriage" reflecting these diverse beliefs.
"holy union," and so forth
In various Western countries, a civil wedding ceremony is essential for state recognition of a marriage, while in others, couples only need to secure a marriage license from local authorities and can choose to be married by legally recognized clergy, including Christian ministers.
Hindu wedding ceremonies are rich in tradition and often conducted in Sanskrit, reflecting the cultural heritage of Hindu scriptures These celebrations can span several days and vary widely based on regional, denominational, and caste differences A key ritual is the Mehendi ceremony, where henna is applied to the bride's hands and legs prior to the wedding On the wedding day, the bride and groom exchange garlands in front of guests, who typically witness this brief ceremony before socializing and departing The religious rites, if included, occur later and are attended by close friends and family During the religious ceremony, a Brahmin priest conducts a sacred yajna, with the fire (Agni) serving as a witness to the marriage The couple then participates in saptapadi, encircling the sacred fire seven times, each circle symbolizing a matrimonial vow The groom marks the bride's hair parting with vermilion and adorns her with a mangalsutra Additional rituals may occur before or after these significant rites, culminating in the bride's formal departure from her family to join her husband's.
In a traditional Jewish wedding, the couple prepares a ketubah, a written marriage contract that outlines the husband's responsibilities to his wife and addresses potential divorce scenarios This important document is signed by two witnesses and is subsequently read during the ceremony under the chuppah, or wedding canopy.
In traditional wedding customs, the couple is married under a chuppah, symbolizing their new home together, which can be a cloth or tallit held by family members Both sets of parents join the couple under the chuppah as seven blessings are recited to honor the bride, groom, and their future The couple shares a sip of wine from a Kiddush cup, and the groom breaks a wine glass with his foot, commemorating the destruction of the Second Temple The ceremony may also include the couple declaring their sanctification to one another, exchanging vows and rings, culminating with the groom breaking a glass underfoot.
A wedding is typically a happy time for families to celebrate In the Muslim world, there are colorful, cultural variations from place to place
In Islam, the Nikah ceremony requires two male witnesses, typically family members The Quran emphasizes that a married Muslim couple serves as each other's protector and comforter, highlighting the significance of their bond as being exclusively meant "for each other."
In Islam, all marriages must be publicly declared and cannot be conducted in secret, with the ceremony itself considered the essence of the wedding, alongside a formal registration in a registry office A Muslim wedding is regarded as a legal contract, particularly in Islamic jurisprudence, although many cultures separate the roles of the mosque and marriage, often without the need for a religious official Typically, an Imam may officiate the ceremony and deliver a brief sermon Celebrations vary by country, but they generally include a Walima, or marriage banquet, following the main ceremony.
In traditional Chinese wedding ceremonies, brigde arrives in a jiao
In traditional Chinese weddings, the tea ceremony serves as a counterpart to the exchange of vows seen in Western ceremonies While this ritual remains popular in rural areas of China, younger generations in major cities and regions like Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore often blend Western wedding customs with the tea ceremony.
As the bride departs from her home to join the groom, a "Good Luck Woman" holds a red umbrella over her head, symbolizing the wish to "Raise the bark, spread the leaves." This fortunate woman is typically someone blessed with a happy marriage, healthy children, and living parents Meanwhile, relatives scatter rice, red beans, and green beans in her path, with the red umbrella serving to shield the bride from evil spirits, while the rice and beans are believed to attract the attention of the gold chicken, enhancing the auspiciousness of the occasion.
During the traditional tea ceremony, newlyweds kneel before their parents to present tea, symbolizing respect and gratitude A woman preparing the tea offers auspicious phrases to bless the couple and their families Additionally, the newlyweds honor each other by raising their tea cups high before exchanging the tea, further emphasizing their mutual respect and commitment.
The attendants receiving the tea usually give the bride gifts such as jewelry or a red envelope
The tea ceremony serves as a formal ritual for newlyweds to introduce themselves to each other's families, demonstrating respect and gratitude towards their parents During the ceremony, the couple kneels before their parents and serves tea to both sides, including elder relatives In return, parents offer blessings and gifts to the newlyweds, symbolizing their support and love.
This chapter explores the wedding customs and traditions in both Vietnamese and American cultures, highlighting the significant issues related to these practices By examining the religious and cultural aspects of weddings, the researcher provides a comprehensive analysis of the distinctive wedding customs found in Vietnam and the United States.
METHODOLOGY
Data collection and analysis
Data, defined as the quantitative or qualitative values of a variable, serves as the foundational unit of information essential for measurements and analysis It is crucial in research studies, providing quantitative evidence for hypotheses and supporting qualitative justifications This study involves the collection of data from various articles, books, and materials focused on Vietnamese and American cultures The author organizes the data by different time periods to explore the similarities and differences in wedding customs across cultures Additionally, the research considers geographical locations, acknowledging that customs can vary significantly from one place to another.
3.1.2 Setting criteria for data collection
To get data for analysis, some criteria are set up
First, the books, articles, and materials collected for the study must be reliable They are published books, not the ones posted on the internet
Second, the sample size is large enough to guarantee that each main category of data should include at least thirty cases as recommended in Cohen
To ensure the reliability and validity of statistical findings, the researcher has gathered over 30 diverse sources of materials This comprehensive approach enhances the credibility of the statistics presented in the study.
After collecting data, we analyze it using two approaches The quantitative approach enables a comprehensive statistical analysis, which provides essential evidence for generalizing the common features and stages of wedding customs in both Vietnamese and American cultures.
The qualitative approach enables researchers to analyze and interpret key aspects and phases of wedding customs across two cultures By examining the processed data on shared characteristics, the study highlights its relevance to the cultural context of English learning at HPU.
Research methods
The following methods have been deployed in this research:
First, descriptive method enables the researcher to figure out typical features and stages of wedding customs in Vietnamese and American culture
Second, interpretative method provides justifications for the occurrence of such features and stages
The synthetic method is utilized to assist researchers in categorizing common features identified during analysis Once these features are described, the typical ones are synthesized and organized into distinct categories.
Finally, comparative method is employed to find out the similarities and differences in typical features and stages of wedding customs in Vietnamese and American cultures.
Concluding remarks
This chapter is devoted to the presentation and analysis of the appopriate the methods for data collection and analysis Moreover, a brief review of the research methods are also metioned.
FINDING AND DISCUSSIONS
Similarities between English and Vietnamese wedding customs
Weddings around the world are marked by various formal rituals, and in both Vietnamese and American cultures, the engagement and wedding ceremonies hold significant importance While these two events are closely related, they differ greatly in their specific traditions and customs.
4.1.1 In terms of pre-wedding ceremonies
Engagement ceremonies are essential rituals in both Vietnamese and American wedding cultures, sharing a common purpose despite some differences in formality In Vietnam, the groom's family visits the bride's home to seek permission for marriage and discuss wedding details, creating a solemn atmosphere where representatives from both families speak about the union Conversely, in America, the engagement is less formal, typically involving the groom asking the bride directly for her hand in marriage, with the aim of obtaining her parents' approval Ultimately, both ceremonies reflect the love between the couple and signify the endorsement of their marriage by their families.
4.1.2 In terms of wedding ceremonies
The wedding ceremony in both America and Vietnam shares a similar sequence and essence, serving as a heartfelt announcement to family, friends, and colleagues It celebrates the union of the happy couple while inviting well-wishes and blessings for their future married life from all attendees.
Both Vietnamese and American weddings share a similar order of events, beginning with a warm reception for guests The wedding host introduces the happy couple, with the bride making her entrance to the blessings of those present The ceremony includes the couple exchanging vows, wedding rings, and a kiss, all set against a backdrop of romantic music to celebrate their love Following this heartfelt ritual, the bride and groom greet each party, expressing gratitude to guests for joining them on their special day.
4.1.3 In term of post – wedding ceremonies
After the wedding ceremony, both Vietnamese and American couples share a common desire to enjoy their honeymoon together Typically, newlyweds take one to two weeks to travel to beautiful and serene destinations Additionally, many couples host a small gathering at home to celebrate with friends and family who couldn't attend the wedding Despite differences in scale and organization, both Vietnamese and American couples prioritize quality time with each other to foster a happy and lasting relationship.
Differences on American and Vietnamese wedding customs
4.2.1 In terms of pre-wedding ceremonies
4.2.1.1 In Vietnam a) Choosing wedding date
After both families agree to the marriage and the bride's family receives the wedding gift, they consult an astrologer to select an auspicious wedding date, a practice rooted in a 5,000-year tradition Choosing the perfect wedding date is a complex and time-sensitive task for Vietnamese couples, who often rely on fortune-tellers to identify the luckiest day for their ceremony This cultural significance is so profound that couples may expedite or delay their wedding plans to avoid an ill-fated date.
Grandparents often say, "Have abstain, have luck," emphasizing the importance of selecting an auspicious wedding date Families typically consult augurs they trust, but this can lead to confusion as multiple opinions are sought To resolve disagreements, many families turn to elderly monks at temples, who possess deep knowledge of lunar calendars, to choose the most suitable wedding date This approach helps minimize controversy that arises from consulting various augurs.
In Vietnam, superstition significantly influences wedding customs, particularly in the selection of an auspicious date and time for the marriage ceremony Families believe that a favorable wedding day is crucial for ensuring the couple's lifelong happiness Central to this tradition is the concept of "age compatibility," which asserts that the couple's future happiness hinges on their respective ages To determine a suitable date for engagement and wedding ceremonies, families often enlist an intermediary to compare the four groups of cyclical characters representing the year, month, day, and hour of the bride's birth with those of the groom This practice, known as the exchange of the eight characters (bát tự), underscores the importance of astrological alignment in Vietnamese wedding traditions.
In Vietnam, horoscopic examination of the two series of bát tự is typically conducted by a scholar or fortune-teller to assess compatibility before marriage Historically, unfavorable consultations could lead to the cancellation of the marriage Families exchange the “eight characters” and proceed with wedding rites, while the wedding date is determined based on the couple's ages A Buddhist monk, spiritual leader, or fortune teller often decides the most auspicious time It is considered unlucky for Vietnamese women to marry at ages 21, 23, 26, or 28, known as “tuoi Kim Lau,” as these ages are believed to bring bad luck to the couple.
When planning a wedding, the first crucial step for couples is selecting the date Many cultures believe that choosing an auspicious day for the ceremony contributes to a smooth event and ensures a lifetime of happiness for the newlyweds Additionally, selecting the perfect wedding dress is another significant aspect of the planning process.
In Vietnam, brides typically choose both the traditional Ao Dai and contemporary dresses for their weddings, as the wedding dress plays a crucial role in enhancing the bride's beauty on her special day Today, brides are increasingly focused on various aspects of their dresses, including colors, materials, designs, and styles.
The Ao Dai is traditionally worn during engagement and wedding ceremonies in Vietnam, particularly when the groom's procession arrives at the bride's home to escort her to his house This elegant dress plays a significant role in Vietnamese weddings, symbolizing cultural heritage and the beauty of the bride.
Nam gowns are discreet and subtle, making them suitable for various body types and skin tones These enchanting dresses accentuate the curves of a woman's body, embodying femininity and grace The intricate national patterns, such as kettle-drums, lotus, bamboo, and phoenix, elegantly adorn the bodice and other parts of the gown, symbolizing good luck and bestowing a regal, luxurious beauty upon Vietnamese brides.
The Ao Dai is a striking and attractive wedding dress that enhances the bride's beauty, crafted from soft materials like lace, silk, and chiffon In Vietnam, traditional wedding dresses are often adorned in vibrant colors such as red, white, pink, yellow, and blue, symbolizing the bride's hopes for a bright future The red Ao Dai is particularly favored, as it not only embodies youthfulness and passion but also represents good luck and prosperity for the couple's life together This choice ensures that brides stand out on their special day, complementing the elaborate decorations of the ceremony Additionally, pink conveys youthful charm, while yellow signifies freshness and vitality, adding a touch of elegance to the celebration.
In addition to the traditional Ao Dai, Vietnamese brides often opt for modern wedding dresses during their celebrations, showcasing their unique personalities Bridal fashion has become increasingly diverse, with numerous collections released annually by designers worldwide From fishtail dresses that accentuate curves to décolleté styles that highlight delicate beauty, and romantic lace dresses that convey sophistication, there is a wide array of trends currently favored in wedding attire.
Lace dresses have emerged as a leading trend for gentle brides in modern weddings, showing no signs of waning popularity in recent years This beloved material is increasingly utilized to enhance both the bodice and body of the dress, often adorning the edges with intricate designs Additionally, lace allows for the creation of glamorous patterns and delicate cut-outs that beautifully showcase the brides' slender shoulders A Vietnamese wedding dress featuring lace exudes charm, sweetness, and romance, making it a perfect choice for brides seeking elegance.
Fishtail wedding dresses are currently a stunning choice for brides, blending romance and luxury This elegant design accentuates the curves, making brides appear taller, slimmer, and more graceful.
Off-the-shoulder wedding dresses are perfect for young brides seeking a blend of elegance and allure These designs range from subtly showcasing graceful shoulders to more daring styles that highlight the beautiful curves of the bust, allowing brides to express their unique sense of style on their special day.
Strapless wedding dresses are a popular choice for brides, elegantly showcasing the shoulders and neck The V-neckline design enhances femininity, making young brides feel captivating and graceful These dresses beautifully highlight silky, velvety shoulders and a tapered neck, creating a stunning silhouette.
Backless wedding dresses offer an elegant design that beautifully complements the bride's figure, enhancing her natural beauty with a graceful neckline and a tapering back These stunning gowns ensure that brides will be the focal point of attention on their special day.
Concluding remarks
This chapter explores the key features of cultural weddings, highlighting three essential stages: pre-wedding ceremonies, the wedding ceremony itself, and post-wedding celebrations It also examines the similarities and differences among these weddings, focusing on aspects such as selecting wedding dates, choosing wedding attire, organizing bachelor parties, detailing wedding order, and the activities that follow the wedding.
The analysis reveals that both Vietnamese and Americans share similarities in the organization of wedding ceremonies, encompassing the stages of betrothal, the main wedding event, and the subsequent celebrations.
There are notable differences in the organization of wedding ceremonies between Vietnamese and American cultures, particularly in the selection of the wedding day and the wedding dress Vietnamese traditions emphasize the formal aspects of the wedding, while Americans prioritize the romantic nature of the celebration.
Finally, despite the similarities and differences but the purpose of the wedding remains to congratulate for the happy couple.