China is dictated by traditions, order, ancient philosophies and a deep sense of honor to one’s self and family.Chinese weddings are no different. The traditions followed by Chinese families act as guidelines to the proceedings and ceremony. For over 2000 years these guidelines have be methodically followed.
Chinese Wedding Videography London
Despite these long-standing traditions, in recent years western traditions have found their way in the wedding plans. Modern weddings follow a more simplified approach by skipping some of those strict guidelines.
Nonetheless some pre-wedding traditions still remain. One of which is the hair combing ceremony. The night before the wedding the bride bathes and then sits either in front of lit candles or within sight of moonlight. A woman, usually her mother, who is considered to have been fortunate in life, combs her hair.
The hair is combed four times. The first combing symbolizes “from beginning to end”. The second combing means “harmony from youth through old age”. The third is a wish for many grandchildren. The last offers hope for wealth and a marriage that lasts a long time.
Some wedding day traditions are very unique
The groom and his groomsmen arrive at the bride’s home and go through a mock bargaining session for her with her bridesmaids.This involves the groom being made to do funny embarrassing things such as dances or door games before the attendants release the bride to him…
This is truly a time where a skilled wedding videographer is needed to capture the embarrassment and teasing the groom has to endure. Following the mockery the couple serves tea to the bride’s parents. Her parents offer them a gift before they leave for the groom’s home.
In the past, the bride alone would serve the tea as a parting ritual. At the groom’s home the couple serves tea to his parents and older relatives as a sign of respect. The families then head to complete the wedding ceremony. The Chinese wedding banquet that follows is of truly great proportions so if you find yourself attending a Chinese wedding be prepare to face an abundant feast.
In recent years, Confucian wedding rituals have become popular among Chinese couples.
In such ceremonies the bride and groom bow and pay respects to a large portrait of Confucius hanging in the banquet hall. The wedding attendants as well as the couple themselves are dressed in traditional Chinese robes.
The bride traditionally wears a red silk dress but nowadays a white wedding gown is often chosen. The couple performs four ceremonial bows. The first bow is for “heaven and earth”. The second is for the ancestors. The third is for their parents and the last one is reserve for the “spouse”.
Unfortunately, words do not suffice to describe such occasions, only a wedding video. Having a skilled videographer is more than enough to make you feel you were there. Like most weddings, traditions and family play an important role but more so for Chinese couples.
The proceedings, the ceremony and following festivities are mostly for family members. Traditions surrounding the wedding are filled with meanings and philosophies that might seem odd but we must not forget that traditions have moulded China. Without them the Orient would be a dull place!
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