The Vietnamese wedding altar stands as a testament to the enduring values of filial piety and ancestral respect, serving as the bridge between the living and the spirits of the departed during the most important day of a couple’s life.
Understanding the deep significance of the Vietnamese wedding altar
In the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture, the wedding is not just a union between two individuals but a sacred merging of two families and lineages. At the heart of this union lies the Vietnamese wedding altar, or “Ban Tho Gia Tien.” This sacred space is where the couple pays their respects to their ancestors, informs them of the new marriage, and seeks their blessings for a harmonious and prosperous future.
The practice of honoring ancestors is the cornerstone of Vietnamese spiritual life. It is believed that even though ancestors have passed away, their spirits remain to protect and guide their descendants. Therefore, no major life event, especially a wedding, is complete without a formal introduction to the family’s predecessors. Setting up the altar is a way for the bride and groom to demonstrate “Uong nuoc nho nguon” (When drinking water, remember the source), showing gratitude to those who gave them life and nurtured them.
The core components of a traditional Vietnamese wedding altar
A well-prepared altar is a sign of respect and careful preparation by the host family. While the specific items may vary depending on the family’s wealth and regional customs, certain core components are almost always present.
First and foremost is the incense burner (lu huong). This is typically placed in the center of the altar. The smoke from the incense is thought to be the medium through which prayers and messages are carried to the ancestral realm. Flanking the incense burner are usually two candle holders. In many Vietnamese traditions, specifically in the South, these candles are large and often adorned with dragon and phoenix motifs, symbolizing the husband and wife.
Next is the “Mam Ngu Qua” or the five-fruit tray. This tray is a vibrant display of nature’s bounty, with each fruit representing a wish for the couple, such as fertility, prosperity, longevity, and peace. Common fruits include custard apples, coconuts, papayas, mangoes, and dragon fruits. The arrangement is not just about aesthetics but about spiritual harmony and the balance of the five elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth).
Flower vases are also essential. Fresh flowers bring life and fragrance to the altar. While many modern couples choose contemporary floral designs, traditional choices like lilies, lotuses, or chrysanthemums remain popular for their symbolic meanings of purity and nobility.
Regional variations of the Vietnamese wedding altar
Vietnam is a country with diverse regional subcultures, and this diversity is clearly reflected in how the wedding altar is decorated and used across the North, Central, and South.
The Northern Vietnamese wedding altar: Sophisticated and traditional
In Northern Vietnam, the ancestral altar is often permanent and located in the most solemn place in the house, usually the central room. For a wedding, this altar is cleaned meticulously and decorated further. A characteristic feature of the Northern altar is the presence of “hoanh phi” and “cau doi” (horizontal lacquered boards and vertical parallel sentences) written in Chinese characters or Nom script, praising the virtues of the ancestors.
Northern families often use red cloth as a backdrop for the altar, as red signifies luck and joy. The five-fruit tray in the North typically includes a bunch of green bananas and a pomelo, which symbolize the protection of the family and the fullness of life. The overall aesthetic is one of classic elegance and strict adherence to ancestral rites.
The Central Vietnamese wedding altar: Simple yet solemn
Central Vietnam, particularly Hue, is known for its refined and somewhat modest approach. The Central wedding altar reflects this philosophy. Because this region often faces harsh weather, the people value sincerity over ostentation. The altar is often decorated with local flowers and seasonal fruits.
One unique aspect of weddings in Central Vietnam is the inclusion of “banh phu the” (husband and wife cake) on the altar. While this cake is found in other regions, it holds a particularly deep cultural weight here, symbolizing the unbreakable bond between the couple. The decoration is neat, balanced, and focused on the spiritual connection rather than grand displays.
The Southern Vietnamese wedding altar: Grand and colorful
In the South, the wedding altar (often referred to as the “temporary” altar for the ceremony if the main one is too small) is known for its vibrancy and scale. Southerners place a heavy emphasis on the “pink candles” (den cay mai xanh/do). The ceremony of lighting these candles is a pivotal moment in the Southern wedding rite.
The backdrops in the South are often very elaborate, featuring large red or gold curtains with intricate embroidery of the dragon and phoenix. The word “Song Hy” (Double Happiness) is usually prominently displayed in the center. The five-fruit tray in the South is also very specific, often avoiding fruits with “unlucky” names and favoring those that sound like “Desire, Sufficient, Spend, Enough, Prosperity” (Cau, Vua, Du, Xai, Sung).
Decorating the Vietnamese wedding altar: A step-by-step guide
Decorating the altar is a task often entrusted to the elders or experienced members of the family to ensure everything is done according to tradition. However, modern couples are increasingly involved in the process to add a personal touch.
Selecting the theme and color palette
Traditionally, red and gold are the dominant colors because they represent luck, prosperity, and royalty. However, modern Vietnamese weddings are embracing a wider palette. Pastel pinks, creams, and even tiffany blues are becoming popular for couples who want a softer, more contemporary look. Regardless of the color, the theme should remain cohesive with the overall wedding decor while maintaining the solemnity required for an altar.
Arranging the floral displays
Flowers are the most versatile decorative element. You can choose a “traditional” style with symmetrical vases on either side of the altar or a “modern” style with asymmetric floral clouds or runners. It is important to avoid flowers that are traditionally associated with funerals or bad luck, such as white carnations or certain types of marigolds, depending on specific family beliefs.
Consider the longevity of the flowers. Since wedding ceremonies can last several hours and the altar remains set up for days, choosing hardy flowers like orchids, roses, or hydrangeas is a practical choice. The water in the vases should be fresh, and the stems trimmed properly to ensure the blooms stay vibrant throughout the “Le Gia Tien” (Ancestral Ceremony).
The importance of the backdrop
The backdrop (phong man) serves as the frame for the entire altar. In many modern homes where space might be limited, a custom-made backdrop can be placed behind a table to create a temporary altar. This backdrop often features the names of the bride and groom, the date of the wedding, and the “Double Happiness” symbol. Using high-quality fabrics like silk or velvet can instantly elevate the look of the room.
The ancestral ceremony (Le Gia Tien) explained
The ancestral ceremony is the most important ritual performed in front of the altar. It usually takes place twice: once at the bride’s house when the groom’s family arrives to “fetch” her, and once at the groom’s house when the bride is welcomed into her new family.
The ritual of lighting incense and candles
The ceremony begins with the representative of the family (usually an elder) lighting the incense and candles. This act is seen as “opening” the connection to the spirit world. In the South, the “Le Len Den” (Candle Lighting Ceremony) is a specific rite where the groom must light the candles steadily; if the flame goes out, it is traditionally seen as an ill omen, though modern families view this more as a symbolic gesture of focus and care.
Offering tea and wine
The couple will pour tea and wine into small cups on the altar. This is a symbolic offering of hospitality to the ancestors. Tea and wine are essential elements of Vietnamese social and ritual life, representing the bonding of relationships. After offering to the ancestors, the couple often performs a tea ceremony for their living parents and elders as a sign of respect and gratitude.
The bows and prayers
The bride and groom will perform several formal bows (lay) in front of the altar. These bows are deep and slow, showing the highest level of respect. During this time, they may silently pray for health, happiness, and many children. The family representative will also speak aloud to the ancestors, introducing the new member of the family and asking for their protection over the couple’s marriage.
Modern trends in Vietnamese wedding altar design
As Vietnamese society evolves, so do its traditions. While the core meaning remains the same, the visual presentation of the altar has seen significant changes in recent years, influenced by international design trends and the aesthetic preferences of younger generations.
Minimalist and contemporary styles
Many couples living in urban apartments or those who prefer a clean aesthetic are opting for minimalist altars. These designs focus on high-quality materials—such as polished brass incense burners or crystal flower vases—and a limited color palette. Instead of heavy drapes, they might use a simple wooden screen or a wall-mounted arrangement of dried flowers and calligraphy.
Fusion of Western and Eastern elements
It is not uncommon to see a fusion of styles. For instance, the altar might be decorated with Western-style floral arrangements (using peonies or David Austin roses) while still maintaining the traditional incense burner and fruit tray. This blend reflects the identity of modern Vietnamese couples who value their heritage but also appreciate global beauty standards.
Eco-friendly and sustainable altars
With a growing awareness of environmental issues, some families are choosing sustainable options. This includes using potted plants that can be kept after the ceremony instead of cut flowers, or choosing locally sourced, organic fruits for the “Mam Ngu Qua.” Some even opt for electronic candles to reduce smoke and fire risk, although many still prefer the traditional flame for its spiritual significance.
Essential etiquette for guests and family
When participating in a ceremony involving the Vietnamese wedding altar, there are certain rules of etiquette that should be followed to maintain the sanctity of the space.
- Dress code: Family members and guests should dress modestly and formally. For women, the Ao Dai is the most appropriate and traditional choice. For men, a suit or a formal shirt is expected.
- Behavior: The area in front of the altar should be kept quiet and orderly. Avoid loud talking or laughing during the ritual.
- Photography: While capturing the moment is important, photographers should be respectful and not obstruct the couple or the elders during the bowing and praying process.
- Handling items: Only designated family members should touch or move items on the altar once they have been set.
Preparing the home for the wedding altar
Setting up the altar is often part of a larger process of preparing the home for the wedding. This usually involves a deep cleaning of the entire house, as a clean home is thought to invite good fortune. The area around the altar should be decluttered and perhaps freshly painted or decorated with “Song Hy” stickers on the walls and doors.
Lighting is also crucial. The area should be well-lit to highlight the beauty of the decorations and to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for both the living guests and the ancestral spirits. Warm yellow lights are often preferred over harsh white lights to enhance the sacred feel of the space.
The role of the Ao Dai and wedding dress in the ceremony
What the couple wears while standing before the altar is just as important as the altar itself. The traditional attire for the ancestral ceremony is the Ao Dai. For the bride, a red or gold Ao Dai is the classic choice, symbolizing luck and happiness. The groom often wears a matching Ao Dai or a formal suit.
However, many modern brides choose to have multiple outfits. They might start with a traditional Ao Dai for the morning ceremony at the altar and then change into a Western-style white wedding dress for the reception. The transition between these two garments represents the bride’s journey from her traditional roots to her new life as a modern woman.
Why choose Cees Bridal for your wedding attire?
At Cees Bridal, we understand that every detail of your wedding, especially the moments spent before the ancestral altar, is precious. Your attire should not only be beautiful but should also reflect your personality and the importance of the occasion. We specialize in creating high-quality, bespoke wedding dresses and Ao Dai that combine traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities.
Whether you are looking for a classic red Ao Dai for your “Le Gia Tien” or a breathtaking white gown for your walk down the aisle, our team is dedicated to making your dream a reality. We believe that a wedding dress is more than just a garment; it is a piece of art that tells your love story.
Our bespoke wedding dress design process
Thiết kế may đo váy cưới tại CeesBridal và lý do, quy trình: tư vấn chọn mẫu, báo giá, nhận cọc, khách hàng ở nước ngoài gửi số đo cho CeesBridal, may theo đúng số đo và videocall cho khách kiểm tra, thanh toán và nhận hàng. We have perfected a workflow that ensures every bride, whether local or international, receives a gown that fits perfectly and exceeds expectations.
1. Personalized consultation and model selection
The process begins with a deep dive into your vision. Our consultants will discuss your style preferences, body type, wedding theme, and budget. We help you choose the right silhouettes, fabrics, and embellishments that will make you feel most confident on your big day. We can draw inspiration from our existing collections or create something entirely new from your sketches and ideas.
2. Transparent quoting and deposit
Once the design is finalized, we provide a detailed quote. We believe in transparency, so you will know exactly what you are paying for—from the fine lace to the intricate hand-beading. To officially start the creation of your masterpiece, a deposit is collected, securing your spot in our production schedule.
3. Remote measurement for international clients
Many of our brides are located overseas. For these clients, we have a specialized process. You will send us your detailed measurements according to our professional guide. We have years of experience working with remote measurements and have developed techniques to ensure a precise fit even from thousands of miles away.
4. Meticulous sewing and craftsmanship
Our skilled tailors then begin the process of bringing your dress to life. Every stitch is placed with care, and every bead is sewn by hand. We use only the finest materials, ensuring that your dress not only looks stunning but also feels comfortable throughout your wedding day.
5. Videocall inspection and final adjustments
Before the dress is shipped, we conduct a thorough videocall with the client. We show you the dress on a mannequin or a model, highlighting all the details and the fit according to your measurements. This allows you to see the progress and request any minor adjustments before the final finishing touches are applied.
6. Final payment and global delivery
After you are completely satisfied with the result, the final payment is made. We then carefully package your gown to ensure it arrives in pristine condition. We offer worldwide shipping, so no matter where you are celebrating your union, a piece of Vietnamese craftsmanship from Cees Bridal can be part of your story.
Setting up a Vietnamese wedding altar is a beautiful way to honor your heritage and bring a sense of sacredness to your marriage. By combining these time-honored traditions with the perfect bespoke attire from Cees Bridal, you ensure a wedding day that is as meaningful as it is beautiful.
Contact information:
Cees Bridal Hotline/Zalo: +84 378 220 630
Website: https://ceesbridal.com/
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/CeesBridal/
Address: 16/8 Dang Van Ngu, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
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