From The Straits Times    |
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There are so many ways you can include nationalistic elements into your wedding celebration. From the decor to party theme and even your wedding portraits, here are some great ideas on how to organise a once-in-fifty-years event!

CELEBRATORY COLOURS!
Think red and white – a bouquet of red roses, a white wedding gown with a red satin sash, red flowers for your hair or even a dramatic white dress with red lace applique and trims. Then there is the decor and settings as well – think red, white and even sparkling stars. And, lucky for us, red, in most Asian cultures, symbolises wealth and good luck!

pinegarden.jpgFresh cream cake with fresh flowers, $568, from PINE GARDEN’S CAKE.

RESPECT YOUR HERITAGE
Take your wedding portraits against the backdrop of our most popular heritage buildings and sites. It could be along Esplanade Walk, the new National Art Gallery, in front of the iconic Raffles Hotel or even at the beautiful and lush Singapore Botanic Gardens. For a more meaningful gesture, ask your parents what their favourite heritage sites are, and their memories of the place; their stories could be the captions to your pictures.

raffles ballroom.jpgThe Ballroom at Raffles Hotel Singapore. PHOTO: www.raffles.com

MODERN ICONS
Singapore is certainly not only about old buildings and preserved monuments; there’s a fascinating list of modern iconic buildings that have also defined our skyline and cityscape. From Gardens by The Bay to Marina Bay Sands and the Helix Bridge, there are so many gleaming new locations that would be perfect for your wedding portrait.

Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay. PHOTO: www.gardensbythebay.com.sg

THE STARS AND MOON
Apart from our national colours red and white, there are also our national symbols – the five stars and crescent moon. You can always use these elements to create a whimsical setting full of sparkle and shine. This table settings, gift favours (sugar coated star-shaped pastries anyone?), floral displays and even your invites.

CULTURE CLUB
Singapore is not just about the flag and buildings. The heart and soul of our nation is our people and the multicultural society we live in. So celebrate all the colour and customs of our different local cultures by using different elements in your celebration.

You can wear a batik cheongsam for your tea ceremony, have nonya kuehs for your dessert buffet or give away cute gifts with a stylish, local flavour to your guests (check out www.naiise.com – they showcase local designer products from fashion to furnishing and gift ideas). For your actual ceremonies like the exchange of vows or even the toasts and speeches, include some local references and meaningful traditional customs.

Nonya kuehs for dessert? Why not? PHOTO: www.instagram.com/herworldbrides

For more ideas, check out the upcoming June issue of Her World Brides where you’ll find more stylish ideas on how to incorporate local elements into your wedding.