If you'd like to witness our Thai Buddhist marriage ceremony and blessing, join us at the Wat on Friday, August 29, 2014 at 10 am. 

 

Here are some of the symbolic elements of this ceremony:

 

• Pom-a-lai: An open necklace of flowers similar to a lei, traditonally worn by the bride and groom. The jasmine flowers and purple orchids represent long-lasting love. 

• Prayer: the ceremony will start with group prayers.

• Blessing: The bride, groom, and families will receive a water blessing by the monks.

• Blessed String: String that has been blessed by monks' prayer will entwine the heads of the bride and groom to join them together.

• Water Blessings by Elders: At the end of the ceremony, the couple will receive blessings and advice from their elders (think of a receiving line, but the bride and groom will be kneeling on padded stools). The blesser will pour water over the hands of the bride and groom while giving a blessing. We're Americanizing this tradition and inviting family members and friends younger than us in attendance to give us their blessings as well. 

 

Attire:

• The bride and groom will be wearing traditional Thai wedding clothing (sans the puffy pants that Mike chose not to wear. He's missing out, though, cuz those pants are ridiculously comfy.)

• If you join us, please dress conservatively (nothing short!) 

 

Check back later for photos from this ceremony! We'll try to print some to display during the reception on 8.30.14 as well.