Blending Cultures in Style | Bengali & Italian-American Wedding at Haus 820
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that beautifully blends two cultures, the Haus 820 venue in Lakeland, Florida is the perfect blank canvas. Last October, I had the honor of photographing a stunning Bengali and Italian-American wedding at Haus 820 — and it was a perfect example of how to create a day that honors both traditions while feeling seamless and true to you.
From the colorful South Asian ceremony attire to the elegant American-style reception look, every detail was thoughtfully planned. Add in a menu that merged Indian flavors with Italian favorites, and the result was a wedding that celebrated love, heritage, and individuality all at once.
Two Looks, Two Traditions
The wedding day began with the couple wearing traditional South Asian wedding attire. The bride’s richly embroidered bridal lehenga and the groom’s classic sherwani reflected her Bengali heritage, while Haus 820’s neutral, industrial-chic setting made the vibrant colors truly pop.
For the reception, they embraced a more American style — the bride in a white gown, the groom in a sleek black suit — giving the evening a second “wow” moment for guests and photos alike. This wardrobe change perfectly showcased the beauty of honoring both cultures in one celebration.
A Menu That Told Their Story
Food was a big part of how they brought their cultures together. Guests were welcomed with chilled mango lassi drinks, a South Asian favorite that was both refreshing and celebratory. For dinner, the couple served a menu blending Indian flavors with Italian influences, giving their guests a true taste of both heritages. It was the perfect symbol of their union — unique on its own, but even better together.
Why I Love Photographing Blended Weddings
As a Florida wedding photographer who specializes in multicultural celebrations, I love when couples incorporate their backgrounds into the wedding day. Haus 820 is an ideal venue for a blended culture wedding — its open floor plan and neutral design can be transformed to reflect any cultural aesthetic, whether you’re going bold with color or keeping it minimal and modern.
Tips for Planning a Blended Culture Wedding
If you’re blending two cultures for your wedding, here are a few ideas to help make it seamless and meaningful:
Incorporate Both Attires
Wear traditional outfits from each culture at different parts of the day — it honors your heritage and gives you two distinct looks for your photos.
Blend the Menu
Mix signature dishes from each heritage or create fusion recipes for a unique dining experience.Share the Traditions with Guests
Include short explanations in your program or menus so everyone can appreciate the cultural significance of your choices.Mix Music & Entertainment
Create a playlist that includes favorites from both backgrounds or add live performances that represent each culture.Choose a Photographer Experienced in Multicultural Weddings
A photographer who understands the flow of multiple traditions will know how to capture the important moments respectfully and beautifully.
If you’re planning a blended culture wedding at Haus 820 or anywhere in Florida, I’d love to capture your day in a way that honors your traditions and tells your story authentically.
📩 [Get in touch here] to see my portfolio and start planning your dream Haus 820 wedding photography.
