Steps of a Traditional Chinese Wedding Ceremony

Steps of a Traditional Chinese Wedding Ceremony
Many Thai-Chinese couples in Thailand may wonder how to incorporate meaningful traditions into their wedding. Wedding in Thai presents the unique and deeply symbolic steps of a traditional Chinese wedding below.

• Proposal (提亲 - Tí qīn)
  The grooms family formally sends elders to the brides family to propose, presenting gifts that convey respect and sincere intentions.
  
  
• Choosing an Auspicious Date (看日子 - Kàn rìzi)
  Once the brides family accepts the proposal, both families consult the Chinese calendar to select an auspicious wedding date.
  
  
• Betrothal Gifts (纳采 - Nà cǎi)
  The grooms family presents betrothal gifts to the brides family, often including money, jewelry, and practical household items as symbols of goodwill.
  
  
• Preparing the Bridal Home (安床 - Ān chuáng)
  The grooms family prepares the marital home, arranging a new bed and decorating according to tradition to invite good fortune.
  
  
• Wedding Ceremony (婚礼 - Hūn lǐ)
  The bride wears a traditional Chinese wedding dress, like the Qipao (旗袍 - Qípáo), symbolizing elegance and cultural heritage.
  
  
• Bridal Pickup The groom and his family come to the brides home to escort her. To gain entry, he may be playfully tested with games at the door to prove his worthiness and determination.
  
  
• Tea Ceremony (敬茶 - Jìng chá)
  The bride and groom serve tea to both sets of parents as a gesture of respect and to receive blessings.
  
  
• Wedding Banquet (宴席 - Yàn xí)
  A joyful banquet is held for guests, often featuring music and toasts, as family and friends offer blessings to the couple.
  
• Brides Send-Off (送亲 - Sòng qīn)
  Following the ceremony, the bride is formally escorted to her new home, where a welcome ritual marks her entry into the grooms family.
  
  
  This beautiful ceremony respects tradition, family bonds, and good fortune, creating a memorable day that honors both families and brings them together.