Inside Vietnamese Wedding Traditions

Emily Dinh
May 20
3 min read

Updated: Jun 2

Vietnamese weddings are a stunning blend of cultural heritage, deep-rooted family values, and meaningful symbolism. From traditional attire to heartfelt ceremonies, every detail is rich with intention and history. Whether you're planning your own celebration or just love seeing how different cultures celebrate love, here’s the tea (ceremony and all).

Woman in a light dress arranges flowers on a white table. Soft lighting, with a serene, joyful expression in a bright room. — Photo: @tinphotography

The Engagement Ceremony

This is where it officially begins. The engagement ceremony is the formal introduction of the groom’s family to the bride’s. It’s a momentous occasion where the groom's family visits the bride's home, bearing gifts like tea, fruits, and traditional cakes, all beautifully arranged in red lacquer boxes and chosen to represent happiness, fertility, and prosperity. It's a heartfelt gesture symbolizing respect and the joining of two families. This ceremony represents more than just a proposal—it’s a respectful and heartfelt exchange between two families, acknowledging their intention to unite in marriage.

The Tea Ceremony

The tea ceremony is the emotional core of the day. This is when the couple formally introduces each other to their new families and serves tea to their elders as a sign of respect and gratitude. In return, they receive heartfelt advice, blessings, jewelry, or monetary gifts sealed in red envelopes. This moment is incredibly meaningful—filled with happy tears and heartfelt words from generations of loved ones.

Group gathered indoors with red drapes; woman in red dress shakes hands with seated woman. Celebratory atmosphere with floral decor. — Photo: @vdao

Modern couples sometimes host two tea ceremonies—one for each side of the family, especially if they’re blending cultures. Either way, it’s a sacred moment of honoring those who came before you, while stepping into your own love story.

Red boxes and cups on a vibrant red tablecloth, surrounded by flowers and ornate embroidery, create a festive and cultural atmosphere. — Photo: @vdao

The Candle Ceremony

Elegant floral arrangement with white lilies and red flowers on a decorated table. Red and white drapes in the background set a festive mood. — Photo: @tinphotography

During the tea ceremony or just before the reception, it’s common to see the lighting of the dragon and phoenix candles. These symbolic candles represent the harmony of masculine and feminine energy, as well as the balance of strength and grace in a marriage. The ritual is performed either by the couple or their parents and signifies the union of two families becoming one.

Elegant red and white wedding altar with gold candles, floral arrangements, and a Chinese double happiness symbol on a glittering table. — Photo: @tinphotography

The Vietnamese Wedding Traditional Attire

Fashion meets tradition with the iconic áo dài—a sleek, floor-length tunic worn over pants. Brides often choose vibrant reds or golds, which symbolize luck, wealth, and happiness, while grooms may opt for blues or other bold colors. The look is completed with a khăn đống, a circular headdress that adds a regal touch.

Couple in formal attire, woman in red gown holding flowers, smile outdoors under a tree. Bright day, leafy background, and paved path. — Photo: @vdao

Many couples choose to wear traditional attire for the tea ceremony and change into modern formalwear for the reception. Some brides may also choose to wear a white áo dài later in the reception when visiting guest tables to fuse the traditional white wedding dress with the classic Vietnamese dress.

The Reception

Vietnamese wedding receptions are joyous, grand celebrations filled with loved ones from close friends to extended families. Traditionally hosted in banquet halls or upscale restaurants, receptions include a multi-course feast, heartfelt speeches, and lively entertainment.

A common tradition at receptions is taking a welcome photo with the couple at the entrance of the reception with each guest's family. This is later printed out and given to the guests as a departure and thank you souvenir from the wedding.

Another highlight of the evening is the couple visiting each table to personally thank their guests—a meaningful gesture that reflects the value placed on community and family. These visits take the time to ensure all guests have the chance to speak with the newly weds and sometimes involve fun games played at the table or a quick toast of warm wishes.

Let's Start Planning!

Vietnamese weddings are a beautiful blend of time-honored traditions and modern celebrations. They're not just events; they're stories of love, respect, and unity told through rituals, attire, and, of course, amazing food.

At Love and Life Events, we’re all about celebrating love in every language, every style, every tradition. Vietnamese weddings are rich in heritage, emotion, and wow-factor moments—and we love helping couples honor their culture while making the day uniquely their own.

Planning a Vietnamese or multicultural wedding? Book a consultation now to get started! Let’s blend tradition with luxury and give your guests a celebration they’ll never forget. 💌

Love and Life,

Emily D.