Comparison Essay

In such a time of globalization, many countries tend to integrate into each other and share some cultural values beside their own unique ones. One of the obvious examples is shown in the wedding ceremonies. Although VietNam and the US have different ways of celebrating a traditional wedding, they also share some simalarities.

The Vietnamese and the American do the specific things right before their weddings. The brides in the US must to choose white dresses while the Vietnamese ones prepare the red Ao Dai for themselves. Besides, to the American, the gifts for the newly couple are optional; most of the invited guests, however, tend to deliver their presents to the couple before the wedding ceremony. On the contrary, in VietNam, people are usually expected to bring their gifts in the form of money in the envelop.

Another discrepancy is shown during the wedding party of the two cultures. The Vietnamese celebrate their wedding days at the bride and groom’s house; nevertheless, the American chooses the church, courthouse or outdoor evenue for their own days. In addition, the American couples usually follow the flower girls in the ceremony. The girls, who are cute, spread petals down the ailse for the bride and groom to walk on. The petals represent for fertility and hope. In Vietnam, nonetheless, these girls are not so popular. The couples follow their parents to go the stage instead.

In spite of these differences, Vietnam and the US also share several similarities in wedding ceremony. The ring with circular shape symbolises enternity, endless, thus never-ending marriage. Therefore, it is the most important thing in weddings. Besides, the bride should avoid wearing black dresses because the black ones are considered to bring bad luck or evil spirits. In the two cultures, invitations are sent to the guests long time before the wedding. These letters are supposed to be written by hand to show the respectation and kindness of the host.

In conclusion, the American and Vietnamese weddings are different, yet alike. Although they have many different and unique things in before and during the time of celebrating the wedding ceremonies, they also share some similarities. Whoever we are, we are proud of what we have making us different, unique; also we are happy to find out the resemblance between the two total different cultures.