Chinese Wedding Decorations

Flavor your wedding decorations with Chinese red. Check out how to infuse your nuptials with this breathtaking contrast to our pure Western white.

Double Happiness

This Chinese symbol of two xi characters placed together represents ultimate joy and is used mainly for weddings. From Chinatowns or Chinese specialty stores you can get wedding decorations of all kinds emblazoned with this symbol, from cutouts and stationery to giant flags and red scarves. You can fly beautiful silk scarves at your reception, or print the Double Happiness character on your placecards.

Phoenix and Dragon Motif

Add the wingless dragon and shining Phoenix to your decor to represent groom and bride. If you don't wish to work these designs into your own bridal attire, add these characters to attendants' clothing (vests for groomsmen or flowing Cheongsams for bridesmaids), invitations, favors, or decorations for Chinese flair.

Chinese Guestbook

This Chinese witnessing tradition makes a beautiful addition to your ceremony's decor: instead of a traditional guestbook, purchase a large red square of lightweight silk and a brushpen and ink (cloths featuring dragon and phoenix motifs can be purchased at Chinese specialty stores). Have guests sign this cloth "guestbook" for a keepsake to last a lifetime.

All Things Red

Instead of chilly, innocent white, add decorations full of bold and joyful red. Tie red ribbons to pews and chairbacks. Create red centerpieces full of Chinese flowers such as peonies and lotus. Go for red table linens instead of white, or serve champagne in cherry-red flutes.

Wedding Gazette