Getting married the Thai way

Marriages may be made in heaven, but they are surely performed at one’s own convenience. What makes it more unforgettable is the venue you choose. Today more and more couples are opting to tie the knot in the land known for its grace and style, Thailand. And if you want to go one step further and get married in a typical Thai style then here are a few facts about Thai weddings;

1. June is the most popular month for Thai weddings because it traditionally marks the beginning of the rainy season and thus represents fertility.
2. The marriage ceremony customarily takes place at the home of the bride’s family, a tradition known as wiwamongkhon.
3. The evening before the wedding day, the bride’s family will host a wan suk dip (‘raw/ripe day’) gathering for the couple’s close friends and family.
4. Around dawn on the wedding day, the couple dons traditional Thai wedding attire, varying in elegance according to the budget involved.
5. One member of the wedding parade slings a long drum across one shoulder and beats out a lively rhythm to encourage participants to dance and sing the ramwong klawng yao (‘long drum dance’) throughout the procession.
6. Once the bride has joined the groom, the couple kneels on a ceremonial dais, while bending forward with their arms outstretched and their hands held in the traditional palms-together position.
7. After the ceremony ends, the families host a feast for invited wedding guests along with friends and relatives who may not have attended the ceremonies earlier in the day.

There are many wedding planners also available in Thailand who will look after the planning and execution of the rituals so that you have a hassle free wedding. Try it, as it will be a truly unique way to experience a “weddings abroad”.