Hindu/Christian Ceremony

Hi, Tina. This will definitely be controversial, especially in a Christian church. I think doing the garland exchange and mangalsutra are great ways to incorporate some traditions. We are considering having a family member read the seven steps/ blessings. It might go better with the families if you do the ceremony not in your church. Could you do it at another non religious venue and ask your pastor to officiate?

ETA: to clarify, both sides will have issues with the church ceremony (unless your church is very very liberal). Sorry I am not more helpful, but this particular combination is very difficult to do well because of the nuances of a Hindu ceremony and we found that many people said "full Hindu or none"

I'm sorry, I'm not very educated on the different religions or the Hindu culture so I don't mean offense to anyone if I compare situations that are totally off base, but I believe there was an Indian fusion wedding on here a few months ago that was insanely beautiful. I think the title even had "Indian fusion" in it which would make it easier to search. Maybe that OP can provide some advice for you?

I'm not sure many Churches would let you do this. When my brother got married, they had more of a "wedding weekend" and did two separate ceremonies.

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I've seen an Indian and Christian fusion wedding and what they did was they first had a traditional Christian/Catholic ceremony, followed by a traditional Indian ceremony (they changed from their white wedding gown into traditional Indian dresses), and then had a reception. It was tasteful and highlighted both the Christian and Hindu elements of matrimony.

Unless you've already discussed with your church about this, I would do so ASAP. Churches are very finicky about stuff like this, and before you go any further in your planning, make sure they allow this. I would highly recommend not doing a church wedding, if I were you.

I just finished a draft of a ceremony combining Christian and Jewish faiths!

I have done civil ceremonies with Buddhist, Hindu, or Jewish elements -- mostly on the beach (neutral territory!).

If necessary, find a civil officiant who is flexible.

It depends on the church. A friend of mine did this - it was jewish and hindu, and they really had two ceremonies in the end. They incorporated elements of both religions into a main ceremony (mostly jewish) and then had a more traditional Hindi ceremony 2 days later (mainly because she didn't want her mendi in the synagogue ceremony).

The key was they talked to the rabbi beforehand and picked which elements they thought blended it well.

I've done many of these ceremonies, but never in a church. I would suggest a more neutral setting like a park or your venue. Or possibly a UU society building.

Usually, we'll incorporate the necklace and garlands, scripture, ending with the seven steps as part of the recessional, over little mounds of rice. It's quite fabulous.

A great officiant can blend ethnic and religious traditions so that everyone feels like they have had an experience they have never had before. You may find it easier than you think to find an officiant who will work with a Hindu priest (none of the priests I've worked with have signed the license....) and that may be the way to go.

Try the "Chicago South Asian Wedding Vendors" facebook group. These pros can offer some guidance on the best way to bring your vision to life. Best wishes!