Thai Weddings

A Thai wedding is one of the most colorful and ancient of Thai ceremonies, beginning with morning prayers recited by monks invited from the local temple or monastery. Prayers continue after treating the monks to a festive meal, with the oldest and most respected monk sprinkling the intended with holy water.

The main celebration called rod nam sang begins in the afternoon, which has the bride and the groom sitting next to each other on the floor or a small dais, their palms folded in the traditional Thai wai greeting, a garland of flowers connecting their hands.

A village elder initiates the wedding ceremony by pouring water from a large nearby sink on the hands of the bride and groom, wishing them infinite happiness. Guests follow his example with each person present pouring water onto the hands of the newlyweds, offering advice for a happy family life. Water is drawn from small silver cups known as khans, in which floats the Thai symbol of fertility – lotus petals, among other flowers symbolizing happiness and prosperity.

The clothing selection for the wedding turns into somewhat of a marathon for the bride especially, who traditionally changes into about a dozen different-colored outfits, including the quintessential white, throughout what is considered the most important day in her life. Her hair is covered in oil, decorated with flowers, and done up intricately. The last guest offering wishes signals the end of the ceremony and a feast begins with guests dancing and entertaining the bride and groom.

The master of ceremonies or toast master is often a close friend of the bride and/or groom, and is the one who will control the remainder of the evening. The first speech is reserved for a respected man in the community, who is aware of his honored position and comes prepared with a well thought-out toast. Well-placed jokes will often find their place in his address, such as the favourite, “Marriage is like chopsticks: you need both for a good result."

Following this, other guests are allowed to stand and wish the newlyweds good health with the words “chai oh”. During dinner, the bride and groom ensure all of the guests are enjoying themselves, and take pictures with one and all.

For our customers, we provide the option of having a secular wedding in Thailand, which is much simpler to arrange but no less exciting. Secular Thai weddings contain no religious elements whatsoever, so you can be sure your big event will not contradict your views, beliefs, or religion. The bride and groom can have as little or as much involvement as they wish and may choose the venue, the type of ceremony, as well as their vows should they wish.

Wedding packages offered by various hotels: