Wedding celebrations (2)

Lately, the rising costs of living have affected wedding costs too and this means a bigger red packet for wedding dinners. $100 has now become the average amount.

I agree with Nelson Quah's letter that some expenses in terms of time and money, pertaining to a wedding, do not have to be incurred. I think it is the feelings shared between the couple that is the essentiality. Yes, they want to announce to the world out there that they have found each other and to share their joy, but the love and joy that radiate from them are testimony enough, don't you think?

I have attended some 'Oscar-worthy' wedding celebrations and they deserve to be mentioned.
At my sister-in-law's sister's wedding dinner, it was simpler than the normal ones, a reflection of the couple's simple and mature characters. Though they were egged on to give a long kiss, they gave a short one in order to please those who asked for it and yet to respect the elders present. The bride spent more time with her family at her table and after the mass toast on stage, they just took photographs with the various tables. The games and performances usually seen at dinners were done on an earlier day or even omitted.

At Ting's wedding lunch, though the solemnization was held too, it was informal and intimate, a perfect match of qualities. There were only 3 tables. When she came into the room, it was not in a processional manner. She had time to mingle with us before the exchange of vows. The lunch was a buffet with all the courses offered. She did not even go for a change of gown and so she had a lot of time with us after the ceremony. It was in a private setting, as such she could take many photographs with her guests. There were no speeches, toasts, games or performances.

We really got to spend time with her, which is highly unusual during a normal wedding dinner, and even managed to arrange our next outing. Due to the close proximity of tables, I got to know someone who was from our former company too. Her mum even warmly thanked us for our presence and we could actually look at her photo album with her while giving our comments. She also plans to have just the customary wedding without a wedding dinner. Couples, sit up and take note!