So you’re planning a wedding in Thailand. Perhaps you’ve traveled there before, and have been enchanted by the customs and traditions of this tropical kingdom. Or maybe it will be your first trip there, and you’re looking forward to experiencing an exotic place you’ve heard so much about. Why not make your experience truly special by having a Buddhist wedding in Thailand?

Buddhism is more a philosophy and a way of life, rather than a religion. In essence, Buddhists believe that life is suffering, and the way to be free of suffering is to give up wordly attachments, and to live a righteous life. High value is placed on loving compassion towards other persons and all sentient beings. Even if you’re not a practicing Buddhist or know little about Buddhism, you can benefit from receiving the monks’ blessing at a traditional Thai ceremony. Wedding ceremonies in Thailand can vary a lot depending on which part of the country you go. Some can be very elaborate and strung out over a few days, whilst others are simpler ceremonies involving just a few hours.

A typical ceremony starts early in the morning, and is presided by a group of 5, 7 or 9 Buddhist monks who are invited to perform the ceremony. The bride and groom kneel before them at an altar displaying the image of the Buddha, and decorated with flowers, candles and incense. They place their hands together in the traditional “wai” posture, denoting respect and humility. The monks chant in the ancient Pali language, praying for the couple’s health, happiness and prosperity. They tie a string in a circle around the pair’s heads as a symbol of their commitment to each other, then bless them with holy water from a bowl. The guests are then invited to do the same, each one stepping up to pour a little of the water over the couple’s hands.

Creative Events Asia is a full service wedding planner based in Thailand. Whether you want a Buddhist wedding ceremony, or prefer traditional Western rites–or even a little of both–we can arrange it for you. We can also take care of all your other wedding needs, from booking your accomodations, reception and honeymoon, to arranging for your legal marriage registration, so that you can have the wedding of your dreams. Contact us