Wedding Traditions in Thailand

Before wedding bells can be heard in Thailand, the couple getting married prepares food for the monks. In return, the monks will give the bride and groom a blessing.

Wedding ceremonies in Thailand usually include only relatives and close friends of the couple.

It is a Thai marriage ritual for the bride and groom to sit together on the floor, each with their hands pressed together, fingers pointing up under their chins. The couple's hands are also linked by a chain of flowers. The oldest relative leads the wedding ceremony and to wish the couple luck, he dips their hands in a conch shell containing water. Their parents and other guests will then do the same.

In rural areas, an elderly couple may arrange the bridal bed for the newlyweds and leave good luck tokens such as; rice, sesame seeds and coins. This Thai wedding custom symbolizes good luck and fertility.