How Does Bilingual Service Work in a Wedding Ceremony?

If you and your families speak different languages—or you want to honour your cultural background—a bilingual wedding ceremony can be a beautiful and meaningful choice.

As a Commonwealth-registered celebrant who speaks English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, I’ve supported many couples in creating ceremonies that feel inclusive, heartfelt, and deeply personal.

But how does it actually work in practice?

Let me walk you through it.

What Is a Bilingual Ceremony?

A bilingual wedding ceremony includes two spoken languages—for example, English and Mandarin, or English and Cantonese. It’s designed so that everyone present—parents, grandparents, extended family, and friends—can feel connected and included in the celebration.

Bilingual ceremonies can take different forms depending on what feels right for you:

• Fully bilingual – where most or all of the ceremony is spoken in both languages
• Partially bilingual – where key moments such as the welcome, vows, or pronouncement are delivered in both languages
• Culturally blended – where the delivery is in English or another chosen language, but the ceremony is still very much rooted in the couple’s cultural background. This may include tone, structure, family roles, or acknowledgements that reflect the values, customs, and traditions of the families involved.

How I Deliver Bilingual Ceremonies

As your celebrant, I’ll work closely with you to find the right flow and balance for your ceremony. My bilingual ceremonies are thoughtfully structured to ensure both sides of the family feel included and understood—without losing the natural rhythm of the moment.

Most bilingual ceremonies include:

• Welcome and introduction – delivered in both languages to warmly acknowledge all guests
• Explanation of the ceremony structure – including any specific acknowledgements of elders, family members, or cultural values, and the significance of the ceremony itself
• Legal components – always delivered in English and repeated in your nominated language (if bilingual service is included), so that everyone understands the legality of the marriage
• Personalised storytelling and vows – either delivered in both languages or a mix, depending on what suits you best
• Pronouncement and closing words – said in both languages for a joyful, inclusive finish

What Languages Can I Use?

I currently offer wedding ceremonies in:

• English
• Mandarin 中文
• Cantonese 廣東話

You’re welcome to choose one language, a bilingual delivery, or a blended approach that reflects your family dynamics and personal style.

Common Bilingual Ceremony Styles

Here are a few formats that many couples find meaningful:

• English with Chinese recap – The core script is delivered in English, with key sections (such as the welcome, vows, and pronouncement) repeated in Mandarin or Cantonese so that family members can follow along and feel included.
• Alternating paragraphs – I alternate smoothly between English and Chinese throughout the ceremony, maintaining a natural flow while ensuring that all guests feel acknowledged and engaged.
• Translation support during vows – Some couples prefer to speak in the language they’re most comfortable with. For example, one partner may say their vows in English, while the other uses Mandarin or Cantonese. In this case, I can translate for each of you during the ceremony—so you both fully understand what’s being shared and can truly connect in the moment.

Final Thoughts

A bilingual ceremony is about more than just translating words—it’s about honouring your heritage, embracing your family, and making everyone feel part of your story.

If you’re planning a multicultural wedding and want to include English, Mandarin, Cantonese—or a combination—I’d be honoured to create a ceremony that flows naturally, feels heartfelt, and reflects the rich cultural background you bring into your marriage.

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