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How to Plan a Bilingual Wedding

While you and your spouse likely speak the same language, your guests may not. Here’s how to plan a bilingual wedding

By Monica Mercuri

Marriage is about bringing people together to celebrate—and sometimes, those people speak different languages. If you’re planning a bilingual wedding, there are a few extra steps you’ll want to take to make sure things go off without a hitch.

A bilingual wedding ensures that guests from different backgrounds can understand and take part in your wedding in a meaningful way. A language barrier can make guests feel left out and hinder their ability to participate. While planning a bilingual wedding may seem daunting (weddings can be stressful enough as-is), it’s not as overwhelming as it sounds.

Much of your wedding planning journey will be the same. But there are a few areas of your planning that you’ll want to focus on specifically for a bilingual wedding. Here are some things to consider.

Hire a wedding planner that understands bilingual weddings.

First things first: if you’re using a wedding planner, find one that has planned bilingual events before. Bonus points if they speak both of your native languages.

A wedding planner with bilingual experience will understand the importance of representing and honoring both cultures, and help you navigate any pain points. They may also recommend vendors that are bilingual, too. While not a necessity, having a photographer that speaks both languages is a plus, as they will make organizing photo lineups that much easier.

Create invitations in both languages.

After you’ve done the fun part of choosing your wedding invitations , it’s time to decide what you’re going to say on them. While we recommend you read our handy how to word wedding invitations guide, if you’re having a bilingual wedding, there are some extra things to consider.

It’s a good idea to include both languages on your wedding invitation for all guests. If you have the budget to do so, you can order separate paper suites—one in each language. But having a single bilingual invite is most efficient. If your wedding guests speak English and Spanish, for example, have the English information on one side and the Spanish on the other. Not only will it help ensure all guests understand key details, but it’s also fun for everyone to experience another language, too. They may even learn a few new words in time for your wedding!

Use your wedding website to educate guests.

Even if you send out physical wedding invites, every couple needs a wedding website that provides guests with all the important logistical information, your wedding registry, the story of how you met (if that’s your style) and RSVP links. There’s no word count online. This means you can customize your site with must-have information in multiple languages.

You can also use your site to educate guests on your respective backgrounds. Tell family and friends a bit about your heritage and what traditions they can expect at your wedding. Is there a certain dress code they should know about? What about etiquette? This is the time to let them know it all.

If guests are traveling from other countries for your big day, you can use your wedding website to fill them in on things they should know, too. This may include cultural practices, what to pack, and contact info and logistical details for when they arrive.

Use bilingual signage.

From ceremony programs to dinner menus, make sure you incorporate both languages whenever information is being shared at your ceremony and reception. This even includes venue signage like where bathrooms are located.

Because of the nature of weddings—people, excitement, chaos—it’s best to have a single paper product that’s bilingual. That way, if someone loses their program, or their menu suddenly vanishes, they can simply read their neighbors. You might also want to use signage to label foods with names in both languages.

An interpreter can come in handy.

If you choose to do your ceremony in one language, consider hiring an interpreter. Not only will an interpreter help people feel less left out if they don’t understand the language, but it will also allow everyone to follow along at the same pace. You can also sprinkle in well-known phrases from a second language, too (think ‘You may now kiss the bride’), or incorporate traditional songs.

You might also consider the mixed-language ceremony route. If you and your partner understand each other’s native languages (or at least a few words in it) you can say your vows in both languages. You might want to share readings in both languages, as well. If time does not permit, provide reading translations in your ceremony program so guests can follow along.

Fuse your cultures throughout the wedding.

Between food, decor, venue, and music, there’s no shortage of ways to bring your backgrounds together. Take your favourite parts of each other’s wedding traditions and bring them to life. This will help each other’s families feel welcomed, and also offer guests a chance to learn about another culture.

When it comes to wedding speeches , try to include both languages if possible. If the maid of honor only speaks your native language, for example, make sure someone from your wedding party who speaks the other language offers up words, too. Again, you can use an interpreter during speeches, but it’s best to keep them short and sweet. You don’t want to bore guests or drag speeches on. If you are including speeches in both languages, try to alternate between them to keep guests engaged.

Even if guests can’t understand every aspect of your wedding at all times, the important thing is that they feel included and welcomed. By making an effort to have a bilingual wedding, you’re showing how much you value you and your spouse’s families—and that message transcends language barriers.

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New script! Bilingual English-Spanish Wedding Ceremony with Written Vows

Published Monday, May. 16th, 2022

Written by Jessica Levey

We’ve added a sweet bilingual wedding ceremony script in Spanish and English to our script library! It contains a heartfelt invocation, written vows, a passage from Corinithians (Corintios) on the nature of love, and a romantic ring exchange.

A sweet bilingual wedding ceremony script with a reading from Corinthians   

We’ve added a new sample script to our library:  , english-spanish bilingual wedding ceremony script with written vows.

  This bilingual wedding ceremony script perfectly captures the joy, unconditional love, patience, and deep friendship that make a marriage successful.   

The ceremony begins with a heartfelt welcome and invocation from the wedding officiant. This short speech is written in English and Spanish, followed by a few words on the nature of love taken from a passage in Corinthians (Corintios) : 

“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude…”

Next, the couple exchanges heartfelt written vows. This section is left open, making the script easy to modify and customize with words straight from the heart.

The ring exchange is especially romantic, emphasizing the couple’s connection and unbreakable bond. These promises are translated into both Spanish and English, giving the officiant and the couple a choice between the two. 

From the script: 

As this ring encircles your finger…From this moment forward...So will my love forever encircle you...You will never walk alone...My heart will be your shelter...My arms will be your home...We will walk thru life as partners & best friends...I promise to do my best to love, cherish and accept you...Just the way you are...I give you my heart until the end of time...I have no greater gift to give. I promise to love and cherish you always, and my greatest love and companion.

And in Spanish:

Así como este anillo rodea tu dedo… a partir de este momento… de igual forma mi amor te rodeará para siempre… Nunca caminarás en soledad… Mi corazón será tu refugio… Mis brazos serán tu hogar… Caminaremos por la vida como pareja y mejores amigos… Prometo hacer todo lo posible para amarte, apreciarte y aceptarte… tal como eres… Te doy mi corazón hasta el final de los tiempos… No tengo mayor regalo para dar. Prometo amarte y cuidarte siempre, mi mayor amor y acompañante. 

This script follows a basic wedding ceremony outline, closing with the officiant’s pronouncement and a sweet kiss from the newlyweds before they head out to the reception for a night of laughter and dancing! 

Sweet, simple, and not too long, this script is perfect for couples who want to center their wedding ceremony around the joys and responsibilities that come with marriage, and their dedication to grow and learn from each other as they walk through life as partners. 

It will appeal to couples who are Christian, slightly religious, or non-religious. Customize each section with details from your own love story, or modify it with other wedding readings and quotes to make it unique. 

See the full wedding script here.   

…     

Not what you're looking for?  Visit the Wedding Ceremony Script Library.  

We know that writing a ceremony from scratch can be a daunting process, especially if you’re officiating on short notice. To make things easier, we keep our Sample Script Library well stocked with wedding ceremony templates and sample scripts for you to choose from. These scripts are a great starting point, with sections to add to, leave out, or reorganize, as you personalize a ceremony.    You'll find more bilingual and Spanish language wedding scripts, including this Bilingual Wedding Ceremony Script with Love Poem Reading .  

You might also like: 

• En Español: AMM’s Top Wedding Officiant Training and Ceremony Planning Articles are Now in Spanish  
• How to Write Wedding Vows Using the Three Question Template  
• How to Write Funny Wedding Vows (5 Tips for Bringing Humor Into Your Ceremony)  

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Jessica loves exploring the history and magic of ritual, the connections between people and places, and sharing true stories about love and commitment. She's an advocate for marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and individuality, and is an ordained Minister with AMM. When she’s not writing or illustrating for AMM, she enjoys city hikes, fantasy novels, comics, and traveling.

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How to Have a Bilingual Wedding Ceremony

And not get lost in translation

Jaimie Mackey was the real weddings editor at Brides from 2013 to 2015. She also worked as a luxury wedding planner and produced over 100 high-end weddings and events in Colorado

O'Malley Photographers

It goes without saying that weddings celebrate the joining of a couple. But weddings also bring together two families. With the joining of two families, it can often mean individual cultures, histories, religious beliefs, and languages are all colliding on one beautiful, momentous day. And just as wedding planning comes with a huge variety of choices from deciding on the perfect venue and the style of your invitation suite to your cake and your flowers, there are a few additional planning considerations to keep in mind if multiple languages might be present on your wedding day.

Especially if some of your guests don't speak your celebration's primary language, there inevitably may be hiccups, but embracing the idea of a bilingual wedding ceremony can go a long way to further celebrate you and your partner as a couple, along with your individual heritage . Plus, it will make sure that those gathering for the occasion won't miss a beat.

"We find it exciting to mix traditions and give everyone an experience wherever possible," says Ashley Smith of Ashley Smith Events .

Meet the Expert

Ashley Smith is the owner and lead designer of Ashley Smith Events , a wedding and event planning company with a focus on planning weddings in California and worldwide. 

Just a few special touches can truly make all the difference. And those details can help to make sure that all of your guests feel included when it comes time for you and your partner to walk down the aisle. Read on for eight key ways to plan an inclusive bilingual wedding ceremony that will help you bridge that language gap.

Have Both Languages Present on the Wedding Website

Make sure that those nearest and dearest to you feel included from the get-go. Including all the details of your big day in both languages on your wedding website can make all the difference. If you're planning to include specific cultural traditions in your ceremony as well, this is the perfect place to explain and share those details.

Offer a Multilingual Program

Consider the way you're wording your program to be sure it's inclusive. "Have the program printed in both languages so that as people are watching, they can follow along and keep up without guessing what is happening," suggests Smith. When you’re creating your ceremony program , either design and print a version in each language, or offer translations beneath each line for your monolingual guests.

Consider offering a multilingual program that offers translations with one language on the front and the other on the back. That way, if a guest misplaces their program and asks to read off of their neighbor's, each program will feature both languages used throughout your ceremony.

Translate Your Readings

If your ceremony will be entirely in one language, consider offering printed translations of your readings or vows so guests who aren’t fluent can follow along. Ask a friend or family member who is bilingual to help with the translations (instead of using an online translation website) to make sure the nuances are clear in both languages.

Consider a Bilingual Officiant or a Translator

If you have a large number of guests who don’t speak the same language, this is an important point to consider. "We highly recommend having the officiant be bilingual," says Smith. "That way they can repeat what they are reading or saying in both languages as they are speaking." Alternatively, you might also consider hiring a translator to provide a live translation of the ceremony. Look for a local simultaneous translation service (like the translators who work at the United Nations, translating proceedings into delegates’ headsets in real-time). They may not advertise wedding services, but these companies offer professional interpreters and can often rent you the wireless headsets necessary to allow your monolingual guests to follow along.

Keep in mind that it's important not to overdo it with translations. Work with your officiant to find a balance for you and your guests' needs so that you're not unnecessarily extending the length of your ceremony.

Keep Readings Concise

To avoid boredom or loss of attention from guests who might not understand the proceedings (whether you’re having a monolingual or bilingual ceremony), keep the readings and sections short.

Include Both Languages in Your Vows

Are you learning the language your partner’s family speaks? Share your vows in both languages. If you’re using traditional vows, repeat them in both of the represented languages. If you’re writing your own vows , you can either read the vows in one language, then the other, or alternate back and forth between each language—offering the full text in both languages in your program.

Translate Key Moments

Even if your ceremony is monolingual, ask your officiant to translate key moments into both languages. Think “With this ring, I thee wed” and “You may now kiss the bride .” Yes, your guests will see what’s happening, but having those major phrases spoken in both languages will help to make everyone feel like they're truly part of your celebration.

Use Signage

Including both languages on signage throughout your ceremony, along with your reception, can go a long way. "It's important to incorporate bilingual signage so that everyone can be included," says Smith. You can opt to include a translation on signage, or design signage in a way that includes a recognizable symbol for anyone to easily understand.

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How to Plan a Thoughtful Bilingual Wedding

Picture this: you are invited to a wedding. Your first thought is AWESOME- after all, you love weddings. But then you read the invitation and there it is, you don’t understand a single word! How would that make you feel? Frustrated, left out, uncertain and insecure? Certainly not the way you want any of YOUR guests to feel about your big day! 

So when you are planning your own wedding, and you invite people who speak a different language, invest a little thought in how you can make all of your guests feel welcome, included and appreciated!

I know a wedding is already a daunting task, and planning a bilingual one can feel overwhelming. So let me show you how you can plan a thoughtful bilingual wedding with ease!!

Wedding Website

Set up a bilingual wedding website as a website gives you unlimited space to put up all the essential information in both languages! Think about including: 

• Date and time of your wedding and any pre-or post-wedding festivities and activities
• Advice on accommodation for out-of-town guests
• Useful tips about any cultural customs or cultural differences
• Information about the dress code
• How your guests get to the ceremony and reception site
• What your guests can expect from your wedding, like what traditions and rituals you will include
• And also give your guests some personal information about the two of you! How did you meet? What do you love about each other? 

Stationery & Signage

All your wedding stationery needs to be bilingual! Including your save-the-dates, invitations, programs, menus, and thank-yous.  

As for your invitation suite, you can either print two sets, one in each language, or include the same information in both languages on one card. Either way, this shows your guests that you genuinely care about them.

Bilingual programs also give you an excellent opportunity to include interesting information for your guests! Besides the basic outline of your day, think:

• explanation of any rituals that you incorporate in your ceremony
• translations of readings
• information about the cuisine you are serving
• games and activities you will play during the reception
• or anything else you think might be valuable for your guests 

To plan a thoughtful bilingual wedding, go the extra mile and put up signage in both languages such as directions but also welcome boards and seating charts. 

Putting together a well-done bilingual wedding ceremony is, for sure, the most challenging part of the entire wedding! But if you are mindful to a few little things you will be surprised how easy and super romantic it can be!

First things first, don’t overdo it and translate the whole ceremony in both languages! It might seem a good idea at first, but believe me, the ceremony would be way too long, and your guests might zone out quickly. 

Instead, have a bilingual wedding officiant who knows which parts are most meaningful to say in both languages while keeping the ceremony short and sweet. If you don’t have a bilingual wedding officiant, ask a friend or family member who speaks both languages to translate certain parts of the ceremony. However, make sure to discuss that first with the wedding officiant and your translator! 

Some more ideas:

• Include wedding rituals where no explanation is necessary or explain them in your program and on your wedding website. Some lovely, quite universal traditions are lighting a unity candle, the sand ritual, or handfasting. 
• Say your vows in each other’s native language.
• Include readings in both languages.
• Choose songs in both languages. 

Now it’s time to have loads of fun by incorporating both languages (and cultures) during your reception! Serve, for example, dishes and desserts from both countries. Create a signature cocktail that represents the blending of your cultures. Celebrate your differences with non-verbal games where the language barrier doesn’t matter and play a variety of songs that appeal to all your guests. If it is difficult to find a live band that can play songs in both your languages, hire a DJ! 

As for the table decoration, jazz it up with cards that include basic conversational phrases like Hello! How are you? My name is…! Would you like to dance?

Speeches and toasts are a vital part of any reception. My advice is to keep them super short, and anyone who gives a speech should do that in their native language. You don’t need to have the speeches translated. Instead, try to alternate them in both languages to keep all your guests engaged. 

My final tip is to ask for help! If you have a friend or family member who speaks both languages, ask them to help your guests find their way around, and to answer any questions they might have. 

How to plan a thoughtful bilingual wedding- in a nutshell

• Have a bilingual wedding website. 
• Make sure your entire wedding stationery is in both languages.
• Besides the basic outline of your day, explain any rituals or traditions in your program.
• Have your wedding menu in both languages.
• Incorporate bilingual signage throughout your wedding.
• Have a bilingual wedding officiant.
• During the ceremony, include wedding rituals where no explanation is necessary.
• Include readings and songs in both languages.
• Serve dishes from both countries.
• Create a signature cocktail that represents the blending of both your cultures.
• Jazz up your reception table decoration with cards that include basic conversational phrases.
• Keep speeches short and sweet.
• Have your guests give their speeches in their native language.
• Play songs in both languages and consider hiring a DJ instead of a band.
• Play games where talking is not necessary.
• Ask a friend or family member to help as a translator.
• Have fun, and embrace the beauty of both cultures!

Did you know that I’m a wedding planner for Amsterdam and Dubai? So, if you like to find out how I can help you plan your bilingual dream wedding, get in touch with me today to set up a complimentary consultation!

Love, Michaela

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Bilingual Wedding - Tips & Tricks for Including Everyone

Love transcends all languages. And as our world grows more connected, multi-cultural couples are more common than ever. And what better way to celebrate the beautiful merging of backgrounds than with a wedding that fully celebrates both? Planning a bilingual wedding might seem like an daunting task. Especially when you know there will be guests who will run into a language barrier. But with a few thoughtful tricks below you'll ensure all of your guests are engaged and enjoying every part of your big day.

Planning Your Bilingual Wedding - A How To Guide

Hire the Right Planner

If it's possible, hiring a planner who speaks both languages is ideal. Not only will this give your guests an authority to direct questions to (that isn't you) but your planner will also be able to communicate effectively with all of your vendors.

Start with the Invitations

Most stationers will be happy to work with you on designing bilingual wedding invitations. And there are quite a few ways you can do this creatively. One option is to print them double sided, with each side being a different language. You could also provide a translation in italics below each line of text (don't worry, your designer will help you create a look that is seamless). Or you can go ahead and send out two separately designed invitations. Whichever way you choose, you will want to ensure your guests receive an invitation in their native tongue. As it will foster an immediate sense of welcoming and inclusion.

Translate Your Wedding Website

Similarly to your invitations - provide your guests with a translated website. There are so many free template options out there that it may be easiest to just use two different ones entirely. Or you could just duplicate your important tabs (travel information, accommodations, important dates, etc) in both languages. Either way, make sure all of your guests are privy to the SAME level of information and can get their questions answered easily.

Inform Your Guests about Cultural Etiquette

If you're having a destination wedding, or a lot of guests are coming in from a different country, consider adding a "customs and traditions" tab to your wedding website. Here you can inform your guests of each other's cultural norms, including greetings, food, attire, etc. This gives them a fun way to interact before the big day, and will help make everyone feel understood and welcome.

Provide Programs for Both Languages

Just like your invitations, give each guest a program in their own language. However you choose to design them is up to you, but it's much easier to follow along with a ceremony if everyone feels included.

Start creating yours here!

*Don't* Translate the Entire Ceremony

That said, don't feel the need to repeat your entire ceremony out loud, twice. Instead find ways to incorporate both languages. Have a reading done in one and a song played in another. Include little snippets of both when you are writing your vows, or include a translation in the programs of the big moments (your vows, pronouncement) in the language the ceremony is not being spoken in.

Post Signage

Signs posted in both languages will help everyone find the guestbook, the bar, and your Instagram hashtag with ease. And all of our custom signs are super easy to order in any language! Find them here.

Make a Game of It

A great idea to get your guests mingling is to plan some sort of icebreaker game at their table. Provide them with funny phrases in each other's languages and have them guess the meaning. Or give everyone little cards with simple sentences and words to use with each other to help them connect and communicate! And you can always include common board games like chess, checkers or dominoes on the tables for people to play. They need very little translation and it keeps everyone having fun!

(Pro Tip: A tech savvy way to help your guests get to know each other is to have them download the Google Translate app on their phones. They can speak into the microphone in their own language and it will be automatically translated on the screen for the other person to read and respond to).

Enlist Help of a Bilingual Guest (if possible)

Are a few of your guests also bilingual? Great! Ask them (well in advance) if they would be willing to be an ambassador of sorts on your wedding day. They can help guests make connections, find their way, and just have another friendly face to chat with. Give them a button or ribbon to wear so people know who to ask for assistance.

Alternate Speeches (and keep them short)

Let's be honest. Regardless of whether you are having a bilingual wedding or not, sometimes speech time can go on much longer than anticipated. To help keep everyone engaged, consider alternating speeches by language. And request that they are kept to a 5 minute maximum (and hold them to it!) This way nobody has time to completely zone out and everyone has time to say something meaningful.

Celebrate the Differences!

Include little nods to both cultures in your food, decor, and design! Celebrating what makes us different, and then coming together for a beautiful union, is what your bilingual wedding day should be all about.

And don't forget to share your images with us using #marrygrams on Instagram ! We can't wait to see how you incorporate these tips on your big day. Felicidades!

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How to Plan a Bilingual Wedding

Ideas for including all of your guests.

Are you and your other half from different countries? Perhaps your in-laws don't speak English? Or maybe you're bringing guests from different parts of the world together for your wedding? Planning a bilingual wedding takes thought and effort, but it's actually more achievable than you think! We get asked a lot about our tips for making non-English speaking guests feel welcome at a wedding, as well as ideas for how to plan a bilingual wedding, so here, we've put them together in one handy guide.

The logistics of planning a bilingual wedding depend on a number of factors, so get started by asking yourselves the following questions:

• Which languages you want to include in your day?
• What is the primary language you and your partner communicate in?
• What is the primary language of the country you're getting married in?
• What is the primary language of most of your guests?
• Which guests is it most important that cater for in the 'second' language, eg; parents, or grandparents?

Once you've established that having a bilingual wedding is a priority, and worked out how many people and who exactly you're catering for, you can get a plan in place. There are no set rules, again it's about making your day as personal and accessible as possible for yourself, and for all of your guests.

Planning a Bilingual Wedding Ceremony and Speeches

Obviously how to prepare for a bilingual wedding depends on the specifics of your situation, but generally,  the two key moments in your wedding that will be impeded by a language barrier are the ceremony and the speeches .

Many couples opt for a ceremony to be led in two languages, with either a bilingual celebrant , or two celebrants . Alternatively, some couples will hire a professional translator to sit next to the guests who speak the 'second' language to fill them in on what's being said.

The couple themselves may choose to read their vows in their own languages or the same language, though reciting vows in each others' languages is a particularly romantic gesture! Do note though, any legal parts of the ceremony may have to be conducted in the language of the country you're in , unless you have an approved translator present.

For speeches, many bilingual people will go in and out of both languages, essentially covering the entire speech twice, or a couple may choose to have different speakers from each language . If all your speakers will be speaking one language, it's a nice idea to sit either a translator or a bilingual person next to those who won't be able to understand.

Try to seat your guests next to other people who speak their language so they don't feel isolated . Of course it's still a great idea to encourage guests who don't speak the same language to mingle at the drinks reception or on the dancefloor, and we've got lots of ideas for that below!

Ideas for Making Your Bilingual Wedding More Inclusive

To make all of your guests feel welcome, regardless of what language they speak, we've put together some easy, but impactful ways to make your bilingual wedding more inclusive.

• Print the ceremony program in both languages
• Send the invitations in both languages
• Have songs and readings in both languages
• Serve dishes or desserts from both countries
• Include traditions or rituals from both countries
• Create a cheat sheet for the other language, which phrases like "Cheers!", "My name is", "Would you like to dance?"
• Include lawn games or dinner games that don’t require language
• Choose speech givers to cover both languages
• Place bilingual guests around the room to help translate
• Have signage in both languages
• Print the menus in both languages
• Ask your celebrant to say a few words in the second language or invite someone else to speak
• Plan non-verbal activities that will get guests mingling regardless of the language barrier
• Organise dancing that will get guests moving together, ceilís are a great way to enforce socialising!

Get your essential wedding ceremony checklist here!

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Raphaël melka, via one fab day, see more in:.

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6 Tips for Planning a Bilingual Wedding

The language of love may be universal, but spoken languages aren’t—which is where a bilingual wedding comes in.

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Bilingual weddings are nothing new, but they’re becoming more and more common in this modern era. Our world is evolving into one big global community, which means falling for someone from another culture—or country! —is a lot more likely than it used to be. So how can you make sure all of your wedding guests understand the vows you’re sharing and feel truly included in your celebration?

We turned to planning pros for their top tips for throwing a bilingual wedding.

Print paper goods in both languages. .

Set the tone for a bilingual wedding from the very beginning by printing your invitations in both languages, whether double-sided or by having two versions - one for English speakers, and the other for non-English speakers. “This is a great way to show respect to all of your guests, whether they’re local or are traveling from another country to join you,” says Caroline Gollner of Volare Planning & Design LLC in San Antonio, Texas. “Do the same with other key paper items, including programs and menus.”

Hire an interpreter.

If your guests won’t be traveling with someone who can speak both English and their native language, consider hiring someone who can help translate upon arrival. “The interpreter could greet guests at the hotel, and then attend the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner to help non-English speakers feel more comfortable with the proceedings and customs,” says JoAnn Moore of JoAnn Moore Weddings and Events in Denver, Colorado. “It will help them feel like a part of the celebration as they better understand what is going on.”

Incorporate both languages...

Whether you or your partner grew up speaking another language or you simply have family members who do, turn to that language for inspiration when it comes to readings , prayers, and toasts. “At a recent bilingual wedding, the bride’s family was Russian, so the groom learned and recited a Russian prayer,” says Moore. “The bride’s mother also offered a reading in Russian during the ceremony, bringing Russian tradition into the more American-style ceremony.”

...but don't overdo it. 

It can be tempting to translate the entire evening for your non-English speaking guests, but think about how long the night will be if everything has to happen twice! “Repeating everything in both languages will make the day drag on,” says Moore. “Instead, translate key portions of your bilingual wedding, then choose select portions to have in one language or the other.”

Invite guests to participate. 

“Bilingual ceremonies and toasts provide special opportunities to include close family members or friends in your celebration,” says Gollner. “Invite them to share a reading or give a toast in their native language to both give them a special role and make sure all of your guests can follow along.” If there are cultural wedding traditions that you’d like to include—such as a Chinese tea ceremony , for example - invite your guests to be a part of that moment and include explanations and readings in both languages to enhance it further.

Take it beyond language. 

“There’s more to breaking the language barrier than translated words,” says Moore. “I encourage my couples to include other familiar items that will make their guests feel at home, such as including familiar foods and drinks on the menu or adding their favorite cultural treats to the welcome bag.” Serve caipirinhas to Brazilian guests, tuck madeleines in the welcome bag as a French treat, or punctuate dinner with a delicious pasta course your Italian family will adore.

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How to Plan Meaningful (and considerate) Bilingual Wedding

Welcome to “Crafting a Meaningful Bilingual Wedding: A Comprehensive Guide.” In a time when cultural variety enhances our lives and love has no boundaries, organizing a bilingual wedding is a special chance to honor the marriage of two people from different origins.

The idea behind this guide is that marriage ought to be a celebration of love and a representation of the couple’s cultural background. Whether you’re combining cultures, languages, or both, this guide tries to provide couples with useful tips and considerate guidance to design a wedding that celebrates the diversity of your wedding.

What is the meaning of a Bilingual Wedding?

When two people from different linguistic or cultural origins tie the knot while respecting and combining aspects of both languages or cultures, it’s called a bilingual wedding. It represents the joining of two individuals as well as their varied cultural backgrounds and customs.

Vows, speeches, invitations, and ceremonies are often given in more than one language during a bilingual wedding, demonstrating the couple’s dedication to tolerance and respect for their own cultural identities. The lovely depiction of love in this image surpasses language and cultural boundaries, welcoming variety and commemorating togetherness within it.

This comprehensive guide will help you create a meaningful bilingual wedding that embraces cultural diversity.

Here is the complete guide on Crafting a Meaningful Bilingual Wedding

1. embracing cultural diversity.

It’s essential to respect the cultural origins and customs of both couples when planning a meaningful bilingual wedding. Every tradition has a distinct history, a multigenerational fabric of ideals and recollections. Couples weave together a variety of cultures, languages, and rituals to create their own unique tapestry by combining different cultural threads.

These mixed-race marriages are proof of the richness of cultural variety and the fact that love knows no boundaries or tongues. Every aspect of our common human experience, from the unique scents of cuisines to the rhythmic rhythms of ancient dances, communicates volumes.

2. Setting the Foundation

Effective communication between spouses is essential for a bilingual wedding to be successful. Open communication and agreement on the wedding’s vision are crucial to guaranteeing that the traditions of both families are respected. First, decide which important cultural components are essential to each individual and rank them according to consensus.

Keep the lines of communication open throughout the planning phase in order to handle any obstacles or conflicts amicably. Recall that understanding and compromise are essential. Through mutual acceptance and the discovery of shared interests, couples may create a wedding celebration that really embodies their love narrative and cultural background.

3. Sending Bilingual Wedding Invitations

In order to properly convey event information in various languages, great effort must go into the design and delivery of multilingual wedding invitations . Start by deciding on a layout that preserves aesthetics while supporting text in both languages.

Make use of clear, succinct language that communicates important details, including the date, time, and location of the event. To ensure that all attendees can understand the invitation wording, think about having parallel text in both languages side by side. Prioritize each recipient’s major language and write it first on the invitation to uphold good manners. Furthermore, the invitation design incorporates cultural elements and symbols that are pertinent to both cultures, resulting in a visually harmonious portrayal of the couple’s ancestry.

4. Building a Website for a Bilingual Wedding

A wedding website serves as a central location where guests may easily get important information. It’s critical to provide visitors with all the information they need to make travel, lodging, and celebration plans. To accommodate visitors from various cultural backgrounds, give priority to language selection options and user-friendly navigation when developing a multilingual wedding website .

Make sure that both languages are used consistently across the website to maintain inclusion and clarity. Important elements include the site of the ceremony and reception, lodging choices, advice on transportation, and any cultural customs or traditions that may be pertinent to the wedding celebrations. This makes sure that everyone is aware of the festivities and ready for the happy occasion.

5. Letting Your Guests Know What to Expect

At a multilingual wedding, educating guests about ethnic customs and traditions is essential to promoting inclusion and understanding. By offering explanations of these customs, visitors are better able to understand the meaning of each component of the event. In order to provide attendees from different backgrounds with context and meaning, think about including explanations of rites and customs in event programs or on the wedding website.

This instructional component fosters an environment of inclusion and respect while improving the whole experience. In the end, letting visitors know about cultural differences fosters togetherness and makes sure that everyone is accepted and respected.

6. Talking Before the Day With Both Families

It is essential to include both families in the preparation of the wedding in order to respect cultural customs and promote unity within the family. It guarantees that all perspectives are heard and respected while also recognizing the importance of family ties. Approach talks with sensitivity and an open mind while managing cultural differences and expectations within the family.

Seek to comprehend the viewpoints and customs of every family, recognizing unique convictions while establishing points of agreement. Stress the need for flexibility and compromise while acknowledging that mixing cultures takes time and understanding. Couples may construct a wedding celebration that honors everyone’s beliefs and history by actively incorporating both families, which will promote harmony and happiness on their big day.

7. Using Bilingual Wedding Suppliers

To provide a smooth and inclusive multilingual wedding experience , it is important to choose suppliers that are aware of cultural variations and linguistic preferences. These suppliers know the value of cultural quirks and know how to successfully use them in their offerings, which range from food to entertainment. Seek referrals from ethnic groups, make use of internet directories, and go to wedding expos with a wide range of vendors when looking for multilingual vendors.

Throughout the planning phase, keep lines of communication open by using translation tools or employing bilingual coordinators to assist with language hurdles. Working with suppliers that are aware of and respectful of the couple’s cultural heritage enhances the celebration and makes the wedding day unique and real.

8. Considering Your Seating Chart Carefully

It takes careful planning to create a seating arrangement that promotes cross-cultural encounters. Guests from various cultural origins should be carefully mixed together and seated at tables where they may converse deeply and exchange stories. It could be a good idea to seat visitors who speak various languages next to one other so that they can interact and converse easily.

When choosing seating arrangements, consider cultural dynamics and preferences. For example, you could arrange to seat senior guests closer to the dance floor or gather families together in observance of customs. Couples may improve inclusion and create a lively environment where guests feel valued and welcomed by designing a seating plan that honors ethnic variety.

9. Including Music and Multicultural Entertainment

Adding an ethnic entertainment element to the reception elevates the event and gives visitors a colorful blend of customs. Include music from both cultures by employing live artists or multilingual DJs who will mix a variety of sounds so that there is something for everyone to enjoy. A multilingual MC can converse with attendees in a variety of languages, making the event more dynamic and inclusive.

Encourage visitors to take part in multicultural events and dances, such as participatory cultural performances or traditional dances, so they may fully experience the cheerful celebration of different cultures. Couples make their visitors’ experiences memorable and inclusive by embracing ethnic entertainment.

10. Respecting Customs and Traditions During the Event

The marriage ceremony is enhanced by the inclusion of significant rites and traditions from both cultures, which represent the coming together of two people with different origins. For example, couples might embrace multilingual components like vows or readings while modifying conventional wedding dress or ceremonial rituals to represent their cultural history.

Informing visitors about the meaning behind these traditions promotes comprehension and admiration, strengthening their bond with the event. Every practice, from lighting a unity candle to participating in a traditional tea ceremony, serves as a moving reminder of the couple’s dedication to upholding their shared love and cultural heritage.

Communication, inclusion, and cultural awareness are essential when organizing a bilingual wedding. Respecting one another’s cultural origins while seamlessly blending them together should be a couple’s top priority. By embracing diversity, they construct a party that reflects their special love story.

We urge couples to take advantage of this chance to really celebrate their love while appreciating the depth of their cultural background. Many resources, such as multicultural wedding planners, internet forums, and cultural associations, provide priceless assistance for further inspiration and direction. Celebrate the beauty of love in all its cultural grandeur, embrace the journey, and hold dear the memories.

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How to Plan a Bilingual Wedding Ceremony

Planning a wedding can be challenging at the best of times – but if you’re hosting a bilingual wedding , it can be even more complicated! When it comes to a bilingual wedding ceremony, how exactly do you accommodate both languages? 

A bilingual wedding ceremony should celebrate both cultures equally, while also ensuring all of your loved ones feel welcome. From working with a bilingual celebrant to incorporating cultural traditions and helpful signage, read on as we share our top tips for planning the perfect bilingual wedding ceremony below.

What is a Bilingual Wedding Ceremony?

First things first – what is a bilingual wedding ceremony, and why are they so important for multicultural weddings?

Simply put, a bilingual wedding ceremony is when a couple is coming together from different cultural backgrounds to get married, and want to incorporate both languages into their nuptials. Along with the spoken language, a bilingual wedding ceremony can also include other cultural elements such as music, dancing or meaningful customs and traditions.

Hosting a bilingual wedding ceremony is a great way to ensure all of your guests feel included, regardless of their native language. This is particularly important if loved ones have traveled to attend your event, and may only speak in their native tongue. 

A bilingual wedding ceremony will not only bring both families together but also allows your loved ones to participate in the proceedings without feeling confused or isolated. While planning a bilingual ceremony may require some extra time and effort, the end result is absolutely worth it for you and your guests!

There are several ways to plan a bilingual wedding ceremony that bridges the language gap between your guests, while also ensuring nothing gets lost in translation. And while they may seem like small details, they can make all the difference in helping your loved ones feel welcome.

The practicalities of planning a bilingual wedding ceremony will depend on a few things. Consider the following questions as a starting point to create a plan for your bilingual ceremony:

• What is the primary language you and your partner use to communicate?
• Which languages are spoken by your guests? Is there a clear majority, or an even split?
• Do you have any “VIP” guests that only speak in their native language (eg. parents or grandparents?)

These questions will help you determine the best way to accommodate the needs of your various guests. For example: if both sides of your family speak different languages, you’ll want to tailor your entire ceremony to reflect this. But if you only have a couple of guests who speak the second language, you can make some special arrangements for them.

Now that you’re ready to move forward, here are some practical ideas to help you plan a thoughtful bilingual ceremony that incorporates both languages.

Hire a Bilingual Wedding Celebrant

Working with a bilingual wedding celebrant is one of the easiest and most effective ways to host a bilingual wedding. A bilingual celebrant will be able to switch seamlessly between both languages and can ensure all of your guests understand what is happening.

Your celebrant will work with you leading up to the day to write a ceremony script that incorporates both cultures. You may want them to alternate between both languages, or simply speak in one language while adding translations for the most important parts of your ceremony. A good bilingual celebrant will be able to suggest the best way to communicate with your loved ones, regardless of their native language. 

Incorporate Special Readings

Another way to plan a bilingual ceremony is by incorporating special readings throughout your nuptials. You may decide to host the majority of your ceremony in one language, but ask a significant family member to say a special reading or poem in their native tongue. 

Include Meaningful Customs and Traditions

Similarly, it can be a great idea to incorporate some special customs or traditions throughout your ceremony to make guests of both cultures feel connected to the proceedings. You may want to sit down with your families on both sides prior to your wedding to see if there are any important cultural traditions they would like you to include on the day.

It can also be helpful to explain these customs to your guests so nobody feels excluded. You can ask your celebrant to share this information during your ceremony or even include the details in advance via your wedding website . You may want to create a detailed FAQs page on your wedding website that highlights any cultural traditions that will be happening on the day, so everyone has a shared understanding and can participate.

Check out our guide on what to include on a multilingual or bilingual wedding website here !

Recite Bilingual Vows

Another sweet way to honor both cultures is for you and your partner to recite your vows in the other’s native language, which can also be a very romantic gesture. Your guests from both sides will definitely appreciate the effort involved in learning their native language for the occasion.

Hire a Translator

Hiring a professional translator can be a good option if the majority of your guests speak the same language, but you have certain loved ones that only speak in their native tongue. Your translator can stand up by your celebrant during your nuptials to translate the entire ceremony, or simply sit beside the guests who speak the second language.

Include Bilingual Signage and Ceremony Programs

Including thoughtful wedding day signage is an important way to incorporate both languages in your ceremony. Consider printing double-sided ceremony programs that include both languages, so all of your guests can follow along with the proceedings.

You can also use bilingual signage for other elements of your day, such as your welcome sign, menus, directional signs, bar signage, and seating chart. This will help your loved ones confidently navigate their way throughout your event, without feeling lost or confused.

Use Songs From Both Languages

Another way to celebrate both cultures at your wedding ceremony is to include a mix of songs featuring both languages. There are several opportunities to incorporate music both before, during and after your ceremony. For example:

• Background music before the ceremony begins
• The processional (walking down the aisle)
• Signing of the marriage certificate
• The recessional (walking back up the aisle)
• Background music for post-ceremony drinks

If you’re not sure where to source music, ask your family members from both sides for their suggestions!

Utilize a Bilingual Wedding Website

As mentioned earlier, utilizing your wedding website is a great way to prepare your guests on what to expect at your bilingual wedding ceremony. Not only can you share significant customs or traditions, you can also explain any important etiquette details your guests should know to avoid any cultural faux pas. A cheat sheet of common phrases to help them mingle throughout the day can also be very helpful!

Our bilingual wedding website builder here at WedSites is the easiest way to share wedding day details with a multicultural guest list. Choose from our range of modern templates, and use our drag-and-drop website builder to customize your website colors and fonts, upload images, add and remove pages and more. Then, translate your wedding website into different languages as needed, and assign personalized views for each guest.

Your guests will be able to experience your wedding website in their native language (no clunky paragraphs or awkward translations required!). You can also use our platform to send bilingual wedding invitations and collect online RSVPs , creating a seamless, user-friendly experience for your entire guest list – regardless of their native language.

Read more about our bilingual wedding website features here .

Planning a Thoughtful (and Practical) Bilingual Wedding

Along with your wedding ceremony, there are countless ways to celebrate both cultures on your special day. From your wedding decor to your catering and music selections, a bilingual wedding is a beautiful opportunity to shine a spotlight on your cultural backgrounds. 

Need some inspiration? Check out our ultimate guide to planning a thoughtful (and practical) bilingual wedding here !

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Bilingual wedding: How are you handling the multiple languages at your wedding?

My future husband's family speaks multiple different languages, but none of them are English. We are inviting his immediate family (a total of about seven people) to the wedding. But most of the people who will be in attendance only speak English.How do I help my husband's family not feel so left out when the whole ceremony is in English? Our wedsite is in English. And the vows are in English. I am going to include translated invitation enclosures written in their various languages for their individual invitations. But I don't know what else to do! Anyone have any ideas on how we can deal with the multiple language barriers? -Rose

If you're dealing with similar issues, including guests with lots of different nationalities and a lot of nonnative speakers, here are some practical bilingual wedding ceremony suggestions:

• If it fits in your budget and your husband's family shares at least one common language, hire an interpreter! This could be either just for the ceremony or for the whole ceremony and reception.
• If that's not in your budget, have different language versions of save the dates and invitations — you could send these out electronically to save money
• Ceremony and speeches in English, with reading(s) in other languages
• Different language versions of your programs (printed out) explaining what exactly is going on
• Signs in multiple languages
• Ask your multi-lingual friends to be proactive in walking around and facilitating conversations
• Use music and other non-verbal clues to mark some moments, such as entrance/exit, end of the seated dinner etc.

We also love these bilingual wedding ceremony ideas from Offbeat Bride readers:

We are going to have a link to all of the (important) info in French on our wedsite, a French reading during our ceremony and I'm going to surprise my fiance and his family by giving a (practiced) toast in French. I'm also going to take French lessons so I can have at least one full conversation with each of his family members who only speak French. Hopefully they will go easy on me and realize I'll still be learning, even 1.5 years from now! Luckily, my maid of honor, our best man, my fiance and his immediate family all speak both French and English, so it makes my work a little easier. (Yes, all of that is coincidental) I feel like such the n00b who speaks only English! -Kelly

What if you had the BIG MOMENTS of the ceremony translated on poster boards, that someone could hold up during the ceremony. It could be as simple as “I do” and the words of the moment you're pronounced. This lets those guests really live that moment. While they may be familiar with the pacing of a typical marriage ceremony, it would probably be a gesture that would really help them feel included. -Dootsie

My family is Polish, but only about 5 people will speak Polish at the wedding (3 are completely non-English). We decided that the whole day will be in English, but we're going to incorporate Polish words throughout our day. Old wine bottles will be used as pitchers (see this:  http://younghouselove.com/wp-content/uploads/wedding/wedding-drinks-16.jpg ) and under “Water” we'll have the Polish word “Woda”. We'll have chalkboard menus, and most of it will be written in Polish underneath. Our dinner is going to be English, but we're going to have a hot midnight snack that incorporates some Polish food into it. For us, it's all about the little things, as opposed to the big things -Roma

As someone who lives in a country where my everyday language is fine but I would be lost at something like a wedding, I would advocate: A schedule of events in multiple languages. (There's nothing worse than having no idea what's happening next, or where I'm supposed to be, or what's happening right now, even.) If you are located somewhere where things like restrooms are not obvious, have either multiple-languages signs or no-language signs labeling them. Labeling the menu would be very helpful… it's often self-evident, but sometimes it's really not for non-native speakers! Having been invited to a few events where I don't speak the language well, I go in knowing I'm not going to understand majority of the speaking and am well prepared to either watch closely and guess or do a wee bit of admire-the-decor-and-daydream until it comes to a part that I do understand. The fun is after, eating and drinking with people, and once the wine is flowing it's amazing how many people can bridge language gaps to have a good time. -Steph

My cousin had a bilingual wedding. He is American and his wife is Taiwanese. They married in the US, and her parents and siblings came over. (All 3 siblings spoke at least some English, but the parents did not.) They had completely bilingual programs, and some of the readings and blessings were done in Mandarin as well. Her father did a speech at the reception which her brother interpreted. -Faith

1. Professional Interpreters are amazing and so skilled! If inclusion is a big priority for your wedding (I hope it is!), please invest in pros so that all family members can participate fully! A lot of companies who offer multi-language interpreters for events are able to do pretty miraculous work no matter what, but it helps to have a few planning sessions, provide as much of the content in writing ahead of time so they can prep, and see if they offer an option to use devices or apps people can connect to their earbuds/phones to hear the interpretation as clearly as possible. And use microphones to make it easy for Interpreters to hear what's being said! 2. Try to incorporate some of these family or friends who are speakers of the other languages to participate a little too so their voices are heard in their native language. Make them the cultural ambassadors of the wedding! This could be by selecting and leading a reading (which can also be translated ahead of time in the other languages) or leading a cultural aspect of the ceremony. 3. I'll echo the inclusion of songs, food, traditions, etc that many folks have mentioned here too! Our wedding Mariachis offered to play some more contemporary songs in English but we told them to prioritize the traditional songs so that our families would feel more comfortable and our friends would get to see and hear something they might not have ever experienced otherwise! My spouse is a musician so all the other music in the wedding was local Austin artists so that too was a treat and new experience for our families. 4. Consider giving folks some language guidance on your wedding website … you could even do this a little like mad libs… like, “here are 3 phrases to practice before the wedding: Hello, I am _____(your name), I am_____ (relation to spouse 1 or 2). What is your name? Nice to meet you ______ (name of the person you just met)”. 5. Consider including the unique characters of your wedding on your website . Ours had a “Wedding People” section which featured photos of family members and friends who had a role in our wedding and little tidbits about them and what they meant to us. We even had a few inside joke hints that we knew would be conversation starters. We also didn't have a seating chart because that was 1 thing I refused to do! But it resulted in family and friends who didn't know each other sitting near each other so they would all get out of their little comfort bubbles and interact with new people! -Nicole

Also, we recommend perusing our bilingual wedding archive , full of great suggestions like: Related Post These bilingual wedding programs are awesome in both English AND Catalan Silvia is from Barcelona and will be doing the bulk of her ceremony in Catalan. But what about the guests that don't speak that language? That's where her bilingual wedding programs come in… Read More

About the Author: Megan Finley Horowitz

When Megan's not writing, traveling, and sleeping, she's eating like the fate of the world depends on it. (You're welcome, world!) You can snoop into her personal life over on her website The Dash and Dine !

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Comments on Bilingual wedding: How are you handling the multiple languages at your wedding?

As someone who lives in a country where my everyday language is fine but I would be lost at something like a wedding, I would advocate having a schedule of events in multiple languages. There’s nothing worse than having no idea what’s happening next, or where I’m supposed to be, or what’s happening right now, even. Also, if you are located somewhere where things like restrooms are not obvious, have either multiple-languages signs or no-language signs labeling them.

Having been invited to a few events where I don’t speak the language well, I go in knowing I’m not going to understand majority of the speaking and am well prepared to either watch closely and guess or do a wee bit of admire-the-decor-and-daydream until it comes to a part that I do understand. The fun is after, eating and drinking with people, and once the wine is flowing it’s amazing how many people can bridge language gaps to have a good time. Labeling the menu would be very helpful, as though it’s often self-evident sometimes it’s really not. Hopefully your guests will realize that it is the thought that counts with the ceremony and so long as they are well included in the reception after they should still have a great time.

I am an mainly anglo WASP. My fiancee is Russian Jew (racial not religious) so his whole family speaks Russian and many speak Hebrew but other then a few of his family members no one is completely fluent although they can speak some english. This includes his mom, nice conversation about weather or work all good, her only son’s wedding not so much. We are having a completely bilingual everything. Ceremony will be conducted by someone completely fluent (and then the papers signed by a minister who is not because there is no one who can do both) and all written materials will be english on one side and Russian on the next. Readings and speeches will be uni-lingual and no one will be asked to speak in a language they don’t know. His family said this is not necessary (which is in part because ex-soviets are pretty unaccustomed to this big party thing, well that and they are AMAZING.)

Right enough about us, YOU. As someone who has taken party in many ceremonies and traveled alone in many places where I speak not a single word of the language (although knowing 2 and 1/2 languages) things to entertain people and to read are the key. I have done a full day walking tour in German where all I had was a brochure covering what the guide way saying and a considerate guide. Yes I felt a little left out when they laughed together but I also got to experience the particular joy of learning the word “Rathaus” for the first time all alone and sharing that joy to those with broken english. Just make it clear that they will be coming to an english ceremony and they will prepare themselves. Plus broken language drunken conversations are some of my favorite memories ever!

The other component is we are having a dancing alternative of a TON of boardgames. We are putting a focus on no-language barrier games for example Ghost Blitz ( http://tinyurl.com/kv9fwst ) where instructions will be in both languages and after that point age, and language don’t matter. Many German and Canadian board games are excellent for this. Also to get us to kiss people will have to say something in their non-native language ( Russian or English or Swahili!) giving opportunities for people to participate is the easiest way to make sure they have the opportunity to feel included.

A little off topic, but what Canadian board games are you speaking of? Thanks!

My parents are from two different countries. Both speak English as a second language, but most of their families do not. Neither of my parents speaks the other’s language. They got married in my mom’s home country and my dad looks SO CONFUSED at some points in the wedding video. I asked him about it once and he said he was so touched by how welcoming everyone was that at the time, he didn’t feel overwhelmed but that looking back he can see he was freaking out a little.

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7 Things You Need to Know if You’re Planning a Bilingual Wedding

Planning a bilingual wedding? Here’s everything you need to do to make everyone feel included on your big day.

Imagine Joy

Our fair country is multicultural and has two official languages, so it should come as no surprise that many couples host bilingual weddings in Canada. While many of the details will be the same as any other ceremony and reception, there are a few tweaks you’ll need to implement to make life easier for your wedding guests who speak a different language. From your signage to your wedding thank-you speech , we’ve run down all the things you need to pay attention to.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a bilingual wedding.

Hire a professional.

The last thing you want is to embarrass yourself by misspelling something or translating a phrase incorrectly. If you’re not totally confident using two languages, hire a professional translator to help guide you through the process. P.S. Got a fluent friend or family member? They may be able to help you save some money and do the job for free.

Makeover your stationery and signage

Obviously, creating wedding stationery and signage is a big part of wedding planning. If you’re hosting a bilingual wedding you’re going to need to print your save the date cards , invitations, menus and signage in both languages so that all of your guests understand the details. If you don’t want to go the double-sided route, go through your wedding guest list and determine which guests require the info in a different language and create alternate versions specifically for them.

Acétate La Boite

Don’t forget about your wedding website

What you put on your wedding website is just as important as what you include on your stationery. If you’re hosting a bilingual wedding, you’ll want to have all of the info written out in both languages on your digital hub so that everyone understands the details on your FAQ page and beyond.

Use both languages

When Trudeau gives a speech, he gives it in both English and French - and you may want to do the same for important things like your wedding vows and wedding speeches . If you don’t want to be too redundant, you can always type them out in both languages in your wedding ceremony program so that everyone can follow along.

Get an interpreter on board for your big day

All of your guests should understand what’s going on at your ceremony and reception, so you may need to hire an interpreter for your celebration. Keep in mind that if your guests have a basic understanding of both languages, you can probably skip the extra expense - they can follow along with your bilingual wedding programs if they get lost.

Don’t go overboard

Now, that being said, you don’t want to make your ceremony double the length because you, your partner and your officiant are repeating everything you say. Make sure to only double up on the important bits or your guests may get bored along the way.

Let speech-givers choose their own language

If a parent, MOH, best man or other speech-giver is more comfortable speaking French or another language, let them give their speech in it. This will make it more sentimental and they’ll feel more confident when they step up to the mic (and probably won’t have to rely on notes).

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Weddings not only bring people together but also cultures and languages. So there's something extra beautiful about seeing guests coming together at a bilingual wedding and crossing language barriers to celebrate mutual friends starting a new life together.

Key Takeaways:

• Translate all your wedding stationery in both languages, so everyone understands your wedding
• Hiring bilingual vendors or a translator helps everyone feel included in the events
• Mix traditions, food, and music from both cultures for a bilingual celebration of your new union

Tip 1: Send Bilingual Wedding Invitations

Put your guests at ease from the start by sending out bilingual wedding invitations . Including both languages on the invitation lets your friends and family know they're a welcome part of the wedding, and you'll make sure they understand and enjoy every detail.

The invitation also lets your guests know to expect several languages at the event, so they aren't confused when they arrive. Instead, they can anticipate the exciting collaboration between cultures.

Shine Wedding Invitations can help couples design and write stunning multilingual invitations for their multicultural wedding.

Tip 2: Design a Multilingual Website

A wedding website is a must in today's weddings because it provides endless space for all those important details about your wedding that you don't add to paper invitations. For example, you can share links to accommodations and your wedding registry.

A bilingual website lets guests understand what to expect when the day arrives.

Tip 3: Order Bilingual Wedding Stationery

Dozens of wedding stationery details enhance your event and help your guests know what's happening. An inclusive bilingual wedding will have both languages on all your stationery. Here are a few examples of stationery you'll want to consider adding a bilingual touch to ensure everyone enjoys themselves:

• Welcome signs
• Wedding programs
• Reception menu
• Seating chart

Numbers and names are universal, so you can order place cards and table numbers as usual.

Tip 4: Use Your Partner's Language

Join your cultures beautifully together by exchanging vows in each other's language. For example, if your first language is English and his is Spanish, practice your vows in Spanish and English. Then recite them publicly as a celebration of your bilingual future together.

If you aren't quite comfortable reciting your entire vows in your partner's language, maybe say a few of the most important lines to emphasize your love for your partner and his language.

Tip 5: Choose Readings Carefully

Remember that everything you read or print must be in two languages. Having long and complicated text can make the ceremony run longer than intended. In addition, it will be challenging for the translator to keep up.

Short readings that translate well work best in bilingual ceremonies. Then each side can enjoy the text's full meaning, and your wedding stays within the expected wedding timeframe.

Tip 6: Hire Bilingual Vendors

Some of your vendors will interact with the bilingual family and guests. Hiring vendors that understand both languages can help your event run smoothly. For example, your photographer can communicate more easily with the bridal party and family if they can speak both languages.

However, the person who speaks the most at the wedding is your officiant. A bilingual officiant will be able to translate for himself or herself to ensure everyone can enjoy the ceremony.

Other vendors that may speak during the wedding or need to communicate with individual guests include:

• Wedding planner

Tip 7: Hire a Translator

Wedding speeches are a fun and sentimental part of the wedding reception. Consider hiring a translator to help everyone at the reception enjoy the speeches. A translator can do more than help those that only speak one of the languages communicate with others. They can also help vendors who aren't bilingual or guests who want to talk with each other.

Some couples ask close friends and family to help translate throughout the day.

Tip 8: Include Music in Both Languages

Music might not be the first aspect of your wedding that comes to mind when you think of language. After all, music tends to be universal. You can find music lovers all over the world jamming out to Rihanna or crying to a John Legend song. That's the beauty of music–you don't need to understand the words to enjoy the sentiment.

However, you can help all your guests feel included by adding music in both languages and cultures to the playlist.

Tip 9: Add Traditions from Both Families

Bilingual weddings are also a combination of two cultures. You can celebrate both cultures by including family traditions from the two sides of the family. For instance, you might wear traditional Chinese clothing, hold a henna ceremony, or incorporate the Mexican wedding lasso.

Tip 10: Add Food from Both Cultures

Your wedding can blend food from both cultures–though not literally. So your guests will be able to sample some of your and your partner's favorite dishes growing up and learn more about the other side of the family.

For instance, traditional German weddings start with >hochzeitsuppe or wedding soup made of delicious chicken broth and white chicken meat.

Tip 11: Teach about the Cultures

The wedding is the beginning of a multicultural marriage. You can use your wedding to educate your friends and family about your partner's language and culture so that your families are comfortable with each other for upcoming events, like birthday parties and holidays.

Design Bilingual Stationery

Shine Wedding Invitations can design bilingual invitations to ensure everyone understands and enjoys your wedding ceremony and reception. In addition, we offer options for all your bilingual stationery needs, from menus to programs that celebrate your meshing of cultures.

Explore our wedding invitation designs to find the perfect suite for your bilingual event.

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In This Article

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Wedding Toast Examples

• How To Write

Brides Often Ask

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Perfect Short Wedding Speech Examples To Guide You

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Wedding speeches are a long-time tradition of weddings. And, if you have an important role at a wedding, such as best man, father of the bride or maid of honor, you would be expected to give a speech. While the thought of giving a speech might be nerve-wracking, it might comfort you to know that the best speeches are short and sweet. So, don’t feel any stress or pressure, because short wedding speeches are not only the best, they are easy to deliver.

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For your inspiration, we’ve put together a guide as well as some short wedding speeches examples to help you on your way to give the best wedding speech.

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Short Wedding Speeches Examples

Bride’s wedding speech.

“ Hello, everyone! Thanks for sharing this special day with us. A big shoutout to my amazing parents for making my dream wedding a reality. To my incredible groom (name), your joy fills my heart every day. I’m beyond grateful to have you as my husband, and today marks the start of countless joyous celebrations together. Cheers to love and a lifetime of happiness!”

Groom’s Wedding Speech

There are many ways to give groom short wedding speeches. Use this example as a guide to inspire you when writing your own.

“Hello, everyone! Thank you for celebrating this special day with us. A big thanks to our parents for making today possible. Today is beyond special, and we’re overflowing with gratitude. To my love, you’ve been my rock and best friend. Thank you for accepting me, flaws and all. I promise to be there for you always and to love you forever. Cheers to a lifetime of love and joy together!”

Father’s of the Bride Wedding Speech

“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us on this special day. As (bride’s name)’s father, I’m overjoyed and grateful. Today, we gain a son and a supportive family. Thanks for making our dreams come true. I’m confident that (name of groom) will bring endless happiness to my daughter. Here’s to love, security, and many more joyous days ahead! Cheers!”

Father’s of the Groom Wedding Speech

“Thank you all for being here to celebrate with us. I am the happiest man today welcoming a new daughter into my family. Also, I am grateful to her family as well for being the best in-laws ever and supporting us in putting all of this together. I could not have asked for a better day for them, and all I can say is that I wish them the best. To you both, may this day be the beginning of a long and fruitful journey together. My wife and I love you both. Once again, thank you all. Cheers.

Wedding speech for mother of the bride

“Hello everyone. Thank you all for being here. My heart is full today, as you all must know. Watching my daughter take this important step in her life has made me very happy. We are all so happy to support them both in starting this new chapter in their lives. I have dreamed of this day so much; I am grateful to finally be able to see it. (Groom’s name) has been an excellent son-in-law and I am beyond happy to welcome him into our family. I am extremely proud of my daughter and happy to give her to someone who loves her just as much as we do. As we celebrate with you two today, may the sounds of celebration never leave you. All our love.”

Wedding speech for the mother of the groom

Another one of our short simple wedding speeches examples for the mother of the groom.

“Warm greetings to you all. I appreciate the time that you have taken to join us in celebrating (bride and groom). From the day my son introduced me to (name of bride), I have grown to love her as my own daughter, and it has been a joy to watch them grow in love with each other. I used to have a lot of anxiety about my son’s relationships in the past, but when I met (bride), I knew that he had met his match. I am happy to celebrate you both today in not just your union, but the union of our families too. Much love to you both. Cheers everyone!”

Best Man Speech

“Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention, please. Today, I stand beside an extraordinary couple, [Couple’s Names], on their special day. To [Bride’s Name], you look absolutely stunning, and [Groom’s Name], well, you clean up pretty well too! Here’s to a lifetime of laughter, love, and countless adventures. May your journey together be as incredible as this celebration. Cheers!”

Maid Of Honor Speech

Ladies and gents, let’s talk about the dazzling duo we’re celebrating today, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. To my gorgeous bestie, you’ve found your lobster! And to the lucky guy who snagged her, good luck – you’re stuck with us now! Here’s to a love that’s as endless as the dance floor tonight. Cheers to the newlyweds!

One-Line Wedding Speech Examples

Crafting the perfect wedding speech is an art. Here are five examples that blend sentiment, humor, and celebration for your inspiration.

Today, we not only witness the union of [Couple’s Names] but also the merging of two hearts that beat as one. Here’s to a love story that transcends time and space.

As I stand before this extraordinary couple, I can’t help but marvel at the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Today, we celebrate not just a wedding but a promise of forever.

In the grand storybook of love, [Couple’s Names] have written a chapter filled with laughter, tears, and endless love. Here’s to turning the page to a beautiful new beginning.

To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your marriage be the masterpiece of a lifetime, painted with strokes of joy, understanding, and boundless love.

As witnesses to the love between [Couple’s Names], let us raise our glasses to a journey that begins today and unfolds into a lifetime of shared dreams and cherished moments.

A toast to love and laughter—here are five heartfelt expressions for raising your glass to the happy couple.

To the couple, may your love be as timeless as the vows you share today and as joyous as the celebration we’re all a part of!

Here’s to love, laughter, and a happily ever after for [Couple’s Names]. May every day be an adventure filled with shared dreams and endless love!

To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your journey together be as sweet as the cake we’re about to devour! Cheers to a lifetime of love and happiness!

Let’s raise our glasses to [Couple’s Names], whose love story is as enchanting as today’s setting sun. May your love glow brighter with each passing day!

A toast to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your marriage be as perfect as today’s weather, and your happiness as everlasting as the memories we’re creating!

How To Write a Short Wedding Speech

With this guide, you can create short and sweet wedding speeches that will just flow organically. Write a killer speech that would be easy to read and will convey your love for the couple perfectly.

• Remember who is in the audience: Whether you are giving short wedding speeches as the best man or groom, it is important to keep your audience in mind. Introduce yourself and acknowledge them. Focusing on the audience and engaging them will help you speak from the heart.
• Avoid alcohol: While getting some liquid courage can be tempting, it is best to lay off the alcohol until after your speech. Alcohol could turn short funny wedding speeches into something long and nonsensical. This is because you might slur or forget your words under the influence, and this is something you absolutely do not want.
• Use note cards: Although you are not encouraged to read out your short wedding rehearsal dinner speech completely, note cards are encouraged. With these cues, you can glance at your notes from time to time to help you remember your lines and keep you on track. The audience might not even notice, and your speech would be better for it.
• Structure your story: Structure your speech in a way that focuses on the bride and groom. Fine one, two or three points about them that you can elaborate upon and stories in which they are the hero. This will keep your message in the right direction, and you can be sure to end on a positive note.

In the next part, we have a list of some of the best short wedding speeches that can help inspire you to write your own.

Example of a Short Wedding Toast

“Cheers to [Couple’s Names]! May your days be filled with love, laughter, and countless joyous moments. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness together!”

How to Make a Short and Sweet Wedding Speech

Focus on key points like expressing happiness for the couple, sharing a brief anecdote, and offering a toast. Keep it concise, heartfelt, and light-hearted for impact.

Is a 1 Minute Wedding Speech Too Short?

No, a 1-minute wedding speech can be perfect. A concise speech ensures guests stay engaged and leaves a lasting impression. Focus on the essentials – expressing joy, sharing a quick story, and toasting the couple.

Not many people are trained public speakers, but it is hard to go wrong with short wedding speeches. Allow these tips and examples to guide you in making the best wedding speeches ever.

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Russian constitution change ends hopes for gay marriage

ST. PETERSBURG, Russia — At the Lagutenko wedding in 2017, the couple exchanged vows, rings and kisses in front of friends and relatives, then took a traditional drive in a limousine, stopping at landmarks for photos.

But because they were both women, the wedding wasn’t legal in Russia.

If Irina and Anastasia Lagutenko had any hopes they could someday officially be married in their homeland, the possibility vanished on July 1 when voters approved a package of constitutional amendments, one of them stipulating that marriage is only between a man and a woman .

Unlike many LGBTQ people in Russia who keep low profiles because of pervasive enmity against nontraditional sexuality, they live openly as a same-sex couple with a 21-month-old boy, named Dorian, who was born to Irina.

They lack, and probably never will receive, those rights accorded to heterosexual couples. They won’t be allowed to refuse to testify against their partner in court, they won’t automatically inherit from each other, and they can’t see each other in hospitals that only allow visits by family members. Anastasia is not a legal guardian for Dorian and can’t become one.

“I want to have the same legal rights for the child,” Anastasia told The Associated Press as Dorian played in her lap in their apartment.

“I planned this child. We went all the way of the pregnancy and the childbirth together, and now, I am 100 percent, 200 percent involved in the process of upbringing, and I consider him mine,” she said.

NBC OUT Russian voters back referendum banning same-sex marriage

Although Russia decriminalized homosexuality decades ago, animosity against gays remains high. In 2012, the Moscow city government ordered that gay pride parades be banned for the next 100 years. The following year, the parliament unanimously passed a law forbidding “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relationships” among minors.

Attacks on the gay community persist. Last summer, the murder of Yelena Grigoryeva , an LGBTQ activist in St. Petersburg, made national headlines. Dozens of other activists received death threats from an obscure anti-gay group that claimed responsibility for the killing of Grigoryeva, who was stabbed repeatedly and showed signs of strangulation.

In 2017, reports of extrajudicial arrests, torture and killings of gay men in the republic of Chechnya drew international condemnation.

Last year, Andrei Vaganov and Yevgeny Yerofeyev, a couple raising two adopted children, had to flee Russia after a doctor reported them to police and authorities opened a criminal case. Adoption by same-sex couples is banned in Russia, but Vaganov had applied as a single father.

Max Olenichev, a lawyer with the Coming Out gay rights group, said there are instances of tolerance by some courts. He said he has worked on seven custody cases in which judges refused to take away custody, saying that sexual orientation doesn’t play a role in a child’s upbringing.

But he is concerned that the constitutional changes will encourage anti-gay views.

Previously, “the state had to create equal opportunities for all people that live in Russia, both for LGBT people and non-LGBT people. When these amendments come into effect, then in fact the state will only support conservative values and promote them. LGBT people will be left behind,” he said.

“Our society really looks up to what the government does, so any kinds of public actions promoting homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, many people may perceive as a call for action. And we believe that there will be more hate speech and hate crimes, and that LGBT people will suffer more violence,” Olenichev said.

Pyotr Tolstoy, a parliament member who supported the changes to the constitution, says Russia is “a stronghold of traditionalism,” reflecting the widespread view that the country is under siege from decadent foreign influences.

The amendments will allow Russia “not to repeat the mistakes that exist in the West,” he told the AP. “These mistakes, in my opinion, are fundamental, when certain people — the LGBT community or certain race groups — are being given additional, special rights. More rights than the majority.”

NBC OUT Polish president proposes constitutional ban on gay adoption

President Vladimir Putin has rejected criticism of the constitutional amendments and the gay propaganda law.

He said that in some countries, “criminal law provisions still exist under which people of nontraditional sexual orientation can be persecuted criminally, as it was in the Soviet Union. We don’t have anything similar to that.” Putin’s remarks came after passage of the amendments package, which also allows him to seek two more terms in office.

Tolstoy, who is a deputy speaker in the lower house of parliament and heads the Russian delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, rejects the idea that the provision outlawing same-sex marriages in the constitution promotes intolerance.

“In our country, people are tolerant to all communities, as long they don’t demand any special rights,” he said.

For Irina and Anastasia Lagutenko, it is not about any kind of special rights. Anastasia says she just wants basic rights given to every parent — the “reassurance” that she is “a lawful parent, like parents in a traditional family.”

“When you have a legal right for a child, you feel safe,” she said.

“I want people who think that families like ours don’t exist to see us — (to see) that our family is complete, we have an excellent child, and to accept this fact.” Irina said. “We don’t have a fear of living in the open and we won’t hide, because we are the same people and we have the same rights.”

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Wedding Palace

The foundations for Wedding Palace was executed by BAUER Technologie the Russian branch company of BAUER Spezialtiefbau GmbH. Scope of works was 163 pieces of D1500mm piles, each 30m deep. Cementation under each pile, and two Osterberg cell tests. The foundation was successfully completed between July-December 2008. For more information visit: BAUER Technologie

Imperia Tower is a multipurpose complex located on plot 4 of the Moscow International Business Center. It will consist of 2 buildings, the mixed-use Building A and the water park entertainment complex in Building B.

Building A, totaling 60 floors, will incorporate over 70,110 square meters (750,000 sq ft) of office space, 45,000 m2 (480,000 sq ft) of apartments, a 280 room hotel (30,000 m2/320,000 sq ft), and assorted retail outlets.

Building B will incorporate the water park and will be a focus of entertainment for the MIBC Complex. It will also house a shopping mall, restaurants and cafés, and will be open year-round.

Eurasia Tower

The Eurasia Tower, located on plot 12, is an office/recreational space with a total area of 207542 square meters. It will be situated on a three-tier podium in which will be placed a fitness center, entertainment, restaurants, and shops. Other areas will be distributed as follows: 106 231 square meters will be reserved for office space, and residential apartments will occupy 21185 square meters. On the bottom, there will be parking for more than 1000 cars. The external design of the building is a combination of classical and modernist style. On the outside of the building, a scenic elevator will run up and down for views of the entire city.

• Number of Floors: 67
• Height: 305 meters
• Total Investment: $250 million
• Total Area: 207,542 square meters
• The area of office premises: 106 231 m
• The area of premises: 21 185 m
• Parking capacity: 1000 places
• Developer: Mos City Group
• Eurasia Tower site
• Official site TechInvest

Federation Tower

Federation Tower will be Europe's first supertall tower, and the second tallest tower in Europe after Russia Tower.

• Tower A: 93 floors - 360 metres tall
• Tower B: 62 floors - 243 metres tall
• Tower C: Spire - 506 metres tall

The unique construction combines architectural elegance, comfort and ergonomics. Upon completion, this will be the tallest building in Europe, at the height of 506 metres.

Office complex "Federation" is on plot 13 MIBC "Moscow-city". The structure represents a design of two tri-hedral towers with height of 360 and 243 metres above the ground, located on a common base of 10 floors. Between them the spike, with a height of 506 metres. In the towers a restaurant is planned, along with office psuites and residential apartments divided by technical floors. In the spike elevators with panoramic views and an evacuation stairway will be placed. In the base of the towers a full complex of retail and household services is planned. The underground part includes parking places, technical premises, and the walkway connecting the complex with the central part of a Business Centre, northern departure and a complex 12 site.

• Developer: ZAO Mirax-City, Russia
• Employer: ZAO Mirax-City, Russia
• Architect: Prof. P. Schweger and S. Tchoban (Germany)
• Total Investment: $500 million
• Total Area: 425,000 square metres;
• Total area of a plot: 1,07 hectares
• Height: over 506 metres
• Construction began: 2004
• Official site

Mercury City Tower

Multipurpose building with housing and open space, premises of trading and cultural appointment «Mercury City Tower» on plot 14 MIBC "Moscow-city". The structure's height is 322 metres (with a spike bringing it to 380) above the surface of the ground, with five underground floors. In a building office premises, apartments, the trading areas, and also restaurants will be located. The underground part, consisting of 5 floors, includes parking places, technical, and retail space.

• Architect: M.M. Posohin, Frank Williams (USA), G.L. Sirota
• Total area of a plot: 0,4975 Hectares
• Total Area: 158,000 square metres;
• Height: 380 metres
• Amount of floors: 70
• The area of offices: 86 000 square metres
• The area of Apartments: 24 000 square metres
• The area of Fitness centre: 5 000 square metres
• The area of Restaurants: 3 500 square metres
• Trading premises: 6 200 square metres
• Those a premise: 16 900 square metres
• Parking place: 18 000 square metres

Russia Tower

Construction began in September, 2007, and is planned to be completed in 2011. Upon reaching its final height of 612.2 metres (2,009 ft), it will be the tallest building in Europe and the second tallest in the world.

The total area of the structure will cover 520,000 m² (5,597,233.4 sq ft), of which 38% (200,000 m² (2,152,782.1 sq ft)) will be located underground. The tower will contain 118 floors, 101 lifts, and underground parking to accommodate 3,680 cars. Commercial retail shops will be located at the base of the building. The maximum capacity of the building is projected to be around 30,000.

The first ten floors will be occupied with the common part in which the parking will be placed. In the bottom part of a tower of office premises, a hotel will be located, the top floors will be occupied by apartments. In a business part of the project is expected to house a large congress centre, hotel, an entertainment zone, and a casino and park of attractions. Construction is planned on a plots 17-18 MIBC "Moscow-City". The developer of the project is the Moscow company (MDC), in cooperation with the city government and CT-Towers is the affiliated structure STT Group created for realization of projects in MIBC "Moscow-City". The final project of a tower has been presented by architect Norman Foster on March 15th, 2006 at exhibition MIPIM-2006 in Cannes. After completion, Russia Tower will become the tallest tower in Europe.

• Total area of a plot: 2,19 hectares
• Total Area: 520,800 square metres
• Amount of floors: 118
• Height: 612 m
• Cost of the project: $1,5-1,7 billion
• Spaciousness of the built in parking: 3680 place
• Amount of lifts: 101
• Construction began: on September, 18th, 2007
• Construction completed: 2012
• The status of the project is currently preparation for construction
• Russia Tower forum-site

External links

• All about Moscow-City
• Moscow-City English-Speaking Forum
• Skyscrapercity Forum Thread
• http://www.moscowcity.ru/
• http://www.citynext.ru/
• http://www.a-s-r.ru/tabid/247/Default.aspx
• http://www.icube3d.ru/portfolio/vis/ani/mmdc/

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