June is known for many things, including Pride, the equinox, and, at least in many countries in the Northern Hemisphere, weddings. June gets its name from Juno, Roman goddess of marriage. In France, the summer season is for weddings, with 15% of all weddings taking place in June. According to Bridal Times, June1 is the most popular date overall for German weddings, and wedding photographers in France find the month often booked a year in advance.
An expatriate in their host country will no doubt make local friends, and end up being invited to a wedding, or some other important social event. In these cases, it is important to have a good grasp of local etiquette and gifting customs. For example, someone from a culture like Japan, where plus-ones are not included and spouses are not invited unless specifically addressed, may be confused if invited to a wedding in India, where the whole family is considered invited even without each member being listed by name.
Gifts are a whole other minefield. Is it better to give money, or is that rude? Will gifts be opened and admired in front of the giver, or will they be put away and opened in private? What would be considered too much, or too little?
Not to mention needing to know what to expect from a formal meal…or will it simply be a small reception?
Living Abroad has a number of articles to help navigate the ins and outs of local social graces. The Social Customs section has ten articles designed to ease the transition to a new culture, including Invitations, Gifts, and Greetings. Many of the articles on clothing contain guidance on appropriate formal wear for both adults and children. From learning how much money to bring to a wedding in South Korea to whether or not alcohol is an appropriate gift in a conservative host country, Living Abroad will prevent mishaps and ensure joy is celebrated in a culturally sensitive way.
Written by Kate Havas, GMS-T, Content Manager
