WEDDINGS IN THE LUNAR 7TH MONTH: A PRACTICAL TAKE ON AN OLD TABOO

Lunar Calendar 7th month is widely known as Ghost Month

In the Chinese lunar calendar, the 7th month is widely known as Ghost Month—a period when it’s believed that the gates of the spirit world open, and wandering souls return to roam the human realm. Out of respect (and caution), many traditional families avoid major life events during this time—especially weddings.

For generations, this belief shaped the wedding calendars of Chinese communities worldwide. Even today, couples often steer clear of Ghost Month to avoid raising eyebrows or upsetting elders.

But in a modern world where values are shifting and planning a wedding already feels like navigating a minefield of logistics, expectations, and costs—should this centuries-old belief still carry so much weight?

More importantly, can couples find a respectful balance between honouring tradition and making practical choices?

Let’s take a closer look.

The Cultural Logic Behind the Taboo

It is helpful to understand the origins of this belief. Ghost Month isn’t about spooks and scares—it’s rooted in the idea of giving time and space for the spirit world. Traditionally, it’s a month for burning offerings, honouring ancestors, and observing rituals to protect against bad luck.

A wedding, on the other hand, is a celebration of new beginnings. In some traditional thinking, holding a joyful event during a solemn period is seen as inappropriate—or even unlucky. The concern isn’t just about ghosts—it’s about clashing energies.

That said, these beliefs were formed in a very different era—before online planning tools, destination weddings, and long waitlists for venues, which brings us today.

1. Not All Dates Are Created Equal

Even within Ghost Month, not every date is considered bad. The Chinese almanac (通勝 or 黄曆) marks auspicious dates based on zodiac compatibility, element cycles, and lunar positioning.

Couples who still wish to observe traditional guidelines can consult a feng shui master or check the tong shu for favourable dates—even within the 7th lunar month. This approach allows families to maintain cultural respect without complete avoidance.

Sometimes, what seems like “breaking tradition” is actually just understanding it deeper.

Even during Ghost Month, not every day is dark.

2. Wedding Planning Is a Puzzle—Ghost Month Offers a Missing Piece

From venues to vendors to guest lists, weddings are complex—and competitive. Many couples find themselves booking dates more than a year in advance to secure a spot.

With so many avoiding Ghost Month, the calendar opens up. Popular venues may have availability. Vendors have more flexibility. Some even offer discounts to fill the gap.

Rather than forcing a wedding into a crowded peak season full of inflated prices and stress, couples might find that Ghost Month offers them breathing room—both financially and emotionally.

Fewer weddings during Ghost Month means more freedom to shoot in dream locations—without the crowds or the chaos.

3. A Smaller Guest List Can Be a Gift

Let’s be honest—not every couple wants 300 guests at their wedding. But family expectations can sometimes push numbers higher than planned.

Interestingly, choosing a date in the 7th month offers a built-in explanation for a smaller or more selective guest list. If some relatives prefer not to attend out of belief, there’s no offense taken—it’s understood.

The result? A more intimate, meaningful celebration. Less pressure. More presence.

4. Flexibility Isn’t the Same as Disrespect

There’s a big difference between carelessly ignoring tradition and making informed, respectful adjustments.

Some couples choose to register their marriage, or hold a private ceremony during Ghost Month, then host a formal banquet on a more “auspicious” date later. Others may perform a tea ceremony with family before or after the main event to align with the elderly's preferences.

These are not loopholes—they're thoughtful solutions. Tradition isn’t about blindly following rules; it’s about showing consideration. That can be expressed in many forms.

5. The Bigger Picture: What Makes a Marriage Fortunate?

It’s easy to focus on dates, symbols, and signs—but these are just one part of a much bigger picture.

A marriage isn’t made lucky by a date alone. It’s built on mutual respect, support, trust, and resilience. These are the things that truly determine whether a union is blessed—not the month it begins.

Ghost Month may come with warnings and whispers, but it also offers an invitation to think deeper: What do we really believe brings good fortune into a relationship? Fear of bad luck, or the intention to build something solid?

They say it’s a bad month. We say it’s a great match.

Closing Thought: Room for Belief, and for Choice

For couples raised in tradition but living in the modern world, Ghost Month weddings present a meaningful question: How much weight should ancient beliefs carry in our personal lives today?

There’s no one right answer.

But if a couple has thought it through, aligned with their families, and chosen with both heart and head—it’s hard to call that a bad omen.

Tradition deserves respect. But so does love. And sometimes, honouring both means walking a middle path—not too rigid, not too rebellious. Just honest, grounded, and sincere.

Ghost Month might be quiet, but our calendar isn’t. Book an appointment this month—you never know what surprises are in store. 😉