Photo Credit: Instagram - @weddings_injos
Intertribal marriages have been happening over the years but no matter how old its existence is, it is still a new experience for the newly engaged couples. One of the reasons is that they have never had the opportunity to personally experience the different marriage rites each tribe has.
Planning an intertribal wedding might appear difficult at first(especially with so many contrasting ethnic rules!). Even when you’re open-minded about it, there are certain things you should consider. It will help make your plans go smoothly.
Here are 7 things to note when you are making wedding plans:
Communicate Expressively
Make sure to communicate with your partner and family on how you want things to be, get to communicate and understand the things that might or might not go well with either tribe as this will save everyone any form of animosity.
Agree With Your Partner First
From the onset, you have to agree with your partner on how you both want the big day to go. Agreeing together will make it easier to tackle any external factors and evading the instances where one party is caught by surprise.
Understand The Cultures Beforehand
It is highly important to have a great understanding of the culture. Make sure to address the culturally sensitive concerns as some people take their traditions seriously (your in-laws may be one of such people).
The funny thing is people will rather disrespect their cultures themselves rather than have someone from another culture do it. To save unwanted drama on your big day, study the culture, the do's and don'ts as you prepare for your big day.
Be tolerant
Do not get angry over everything your partner’s family do and vice versa. Try your best to see things from their perspective, if it becomes overbearing then have a sit down with your partner and try to address the problem.
Respect
This is needed, you should never forget to respect each other's culture and family. Don't compare cultures or make one superior over the other.
Serve Food From Both Cultures
Make sure to include dishes from both cultures in your wedding menu. That way, you wouldn't have issues with guests or in-laws who would prefer one traditional food over the other.
Represent Your Culture
Make sure to represent each other’s culture well; in your dressing, the wedding activities etc. It's your wedding and the perfect place to showcase your love for your cultures. Let it reflect everywhere, even in your decorations.
Above all, to have all the fun with the love of your life and enjoy to the fullest, the beauty that the fusion of both cultures will bring.