There is always something magical about weddings. People from all over come together to celebrate the union and there is so much love in the air, it’s intoxicating. But traditional wedding practices vary greatly worldwide and each country’s diverse customs, which may be foreign to some, are part of an ancient cultural tradition designed to bring good luck and symbolize a couple’s bond.

In India for example, the pre-wedding Mehndi ceremony involves applying intricate henna designs to the bride’s hands and feet for beauty, prosperity, and love, while in Mexico, a rosary and flower garland called “el lazo” is draped around the couple’s shoulders in the shape of an infinity symbol to represent their eternal and unbreakable bond.

In Germany, the Polterabend tradition involves guests bringing and smashing porcelain plates before the wedding to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck, and in Kenya (Maasai Culture), the bride’s father spits on the bride’s head and chest as a blessing for good luck and prosperity!

In Bali however, It takes a whole village to prepare for a traditional Balinese wedding. It is a spiritual, visually stunning, and communal celebration woven from family loyalty, spiritual devotion, and community spirit. The traditional wedding showcases Bali’s vibrant culture with rituals that hold deep spiritual and social significance. Marriage in Bali is more than a union of two people, it also integrates them into the extended family and community known as banjar.

Throw in a balmy, tropical evening, the haunting sounds of the Gamelan and the exotic ambience of traditional dancing, and the meaning of ‘The Celebration of Love’ is taken to a whole new level.

In July this year, Mel and Peter, who recently moved to Bali from Australia, decided to acknowledge the cultural beauty of their new island home, by incorporating traditional Balinese elements into their wedding which was held at the legendary John Hardy Boutique and Gallery Space, Seminyak. Here at this beautiful Balinese oasis, where traditional architecture meets signature artisanship and immersive community ethos, the blend of Australian and Balinese culture was celebrated long into the night.

John Hardy is a Canadian designer, who arrived in Bali in the mid-1970s and immediately fell in love with the island’s people, culture and artisanship. He particularly admired the Balinese jewellery-making techniques, and began learning the ancient art himself, which he quickly developed into his own style by creating modern pieces inspired by ancient methods.

The John Hardy brand has grown into a global name in luxury jewellery, and this year is its 50th anniversary, a milestone which holds symbolic meaning to both Mel and Peter, who also now run their businesses in Bali. Like Hardy, Mel’s passion for design led her to explore Bali’s exquisite artisanship, and like Hardy, she fell under Bali’s exotic spell . Now based there, she creates her own range of quality furniture and unique homewares for her company The Styling Republic.

Mel and Peter’s celebration of love not only acknowledges the bond between them both, but also the love of the land they have chosen to call home. Through a marriage of blended cultures and by honouring Balinese tradition, they have created a memorable wedding day which signifies their new beginning.

For those of us who don’t live in exotic loacales, the appeal of overseas weddings is a popular option especially among Australian couples, and it’s easy to see why—they offer a unique blend of romance, adventure, and intimacy. But they also come with a distinct set of planning steps and potential challenges.

Couples are drawn to the idea of creating a wedding that reflects their personalities—whether it’s a beach ceremony in Bali or a cliff top celebration in Italy. And, when the wedding and honeymoon are all in one trip, it gives the bride and groom a perfect opportunity to explore their chosen location in more depth.

Surprisingly, destination weddings can also be more affordable than traditional ones, especially with all-inclusive packages, plus the guest list is usually smaller which mean less pressure and more quality time with loved ones.

Of course, some couples may choose to marry in a partner’s home country which honours heritage and also allows them to include members of their overseas family.

For whatever reason you choose to wed in another country, there are some very important key steps to follow when organising your overseas wedding.

Key Steps to Organising an Overseas Wedding

1. Choose Your Destination Wisely

• Consider climate, legal requirements, accessibility, and cultural compatibility.
• Popular spots include Bali, Italy, Fiji, Hawaii, and Thailand.

2. Understand Legal Requirements

• Each country has its own marriage laws. For example:
  • Italy requires a “pubblicazione” (public notice) two weeks prior.
  • Bali requires a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) from the Australian embassy.
• Decide if you want a legal ceremony abroad or a symbolic one with legal registration back in Australia.

3. Hire a Local Wedding Planner

• They’ll navigate local vendors, language barriers, and customs.
• A planner can also help with permits, venue bookings, and contingency plans.

4. Notify Guests Early

• Give guests ample time to plan travel, budget, and secure passports.

5. Budget for Travel & Accommodation

• Factor in flights, hotels, meals, and activities for yourselves and possibly guests.

6. Check Recognition of Marriage in Australia

• Ensure your overseas marriage certificate is valid in Australia. Misunderstandings can lead to legal complications, especially around name changes and wills.

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In summary, a destination wedding is a unique, intimate, and memorable celebration that combines a vacation with the wedding itself. By leveraging potential cost savings and combining the event with a honeymoon, couples can create a personalized experience with their closest family and friends in a beautiful and unique setting.

Selamat menempuh hidup baru! (Wishing you all the best in your new life) 🌸

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Explore Further

Getting Married Overseas – Smart Traveller

How to Plan the Ultimate Destination Wedding

50 Fascinating Wedding Traditions Around the World

Everything You Need to Know Before Attending a Balinese Wedding

The History of John Hardy’s Strikingly Unique Jewellery

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