As we progress through January, there is a hugely symbolic festivity on the horizon, one which we simply had to blog about – the Chinese New Year. 2014 is the year of the Horse, according to the Chinese Zodiac.
The horse has a plethora of characteristics, but to share a few, people that fall under this sign are considered to have a love of travel, strong wit, an ability to work hard and achieve their desires, a need for love and intimacy.
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The Chinese are renowned for throwing huge, exquisite parties adorned with opulent decorations, such as the magnificent Chinese Dragon and spectacular firework displays famed the world over.
As the year of the horse races towards us, we considered how this theme could be entwined into weddings around the festivity.
Naturally this led to the inspiration of a Chinese themed ceremony. So here are a few style suggestions to influence your ceremony if you are one of the many who celebrate this formidable event.
Firstly, we enjoyed the influence of a classic Chinese tradition, the Geisha girl style, which could well provide the inspiration for your wedding dress or bridesmaids style.
In terms of themes for the décor, the first thing that comes to mind when considering Chinese celebration styles, is the bold yet sophisticated combination of bright red trimmed with gold pattern, or vice versa. A favourite of the orient, this colourful dichotomy can be used for truly stand out dresses, favoured by the bride as one of her 3 outfits chosen through the day, beautiful decorations, or, as we have demonstrated below, elegant wall coverings, that can really create the desired ambience and complete the theme of Chinese New Year.
The final far eastern influence we feel is worth adding is the menu on offer during the reception. One oriental alteration may be the toast of the ceremony being conducted with the imbibing of Shaioxin, or rice wine, served warm, in traditional porcelain drinking pots. Particularly enjoyable during colder months, Shaioxin also compliments flavours of China, so perhaps a Chinese banquet could be the feast for you, with some exceptionally exotic and delightful tastes. The tradition of such a meal is that it be served upon a round table, with a rotating glass plate atop the table to allow the food to be shared tastefully, observing true etiquette and decorum yet leading to all parties developing a great dialogue and interaction.
