If you are conbining different races or religions at your wedding, do some research on the wedding traditions of both your and your partner’s families as a place to begin. Consider how you can nix them up. For instance, use an African kentle cloth as a Jewish chuppah, or wear Thai puang malai (Floral garlands) while eating a dim sum wedding dinner. Whatever you do, explain the significance to your guests either during the ceremony or in the program notes. For help, check out the book “Weddings by Design: A guide to a non-traditional ceremony” by Richard Leviton

*52 Tips for the Bride to be, Chronicle books