Asian Countries & Their Wedding Traditions

BANGLADESH
Capital city of Bangladesh is Dhaka with roughly 83% of the

population of Muslim faith and 16% representing the Hindu
faith and located in Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal,
between Burma and India.
Weddings in Bangladesh are usually held in the Bengali tradition

and consists of 4 parts often taking place on separate days; the
bride's gaye holud, the groom's gaye holud, the wedding
ceremony, and the reception. There is no set number of
changes in clothing as the marriage itself is matched by
horoscopes. (see Traditions below for details)
WHITE WEDDING DRESSES
Not typically worn for weddings.

Wedding dresses called “Sari” or “Lehenga” are traditionally in colors and shades of Red or Orange.
Pricing varies dependant on fabric, embroidery and choice of whether semi-precious stones or gold
are desired. There is no specific designer for lehengas or saris only different designs as the wedding
itself is heavily influenced by religion and faith. Price ranges from as little as US$10 to thousands.
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids following Bengali traditional weddings other than all
clothing must be matching in color and theme.
are desired. There is no specific designer for lehengas or saris only different designs as the wedding
itself is heavily influenced by religion and faith. Price ranges from as little as US$10 to thousands.
TUXEDOS
Known as “Sherwani” are tuxedo style suits and like the brides choice of style and theme; the price I
also as flexible and variable. Traditionally Sherwanis are gold, yellow, orange in color. There is no
specific designer for Sherwanis only different designs as the wedding itself is heavily influenced by
religion and faith. Price ranges from as little as US$10 to thousands.
WEBSITES – (INCLUDES VARIATION ON PRICES, FABRIC, DESIGNS ON ALL ATTIRE)
 http://www.bharatplaza.com/
 http://www.utsavsarees.com/
 http://www.bargello.com/ (this site offers western style white wedding dresses themed on
the Indian Lehenga style, based in Pakistan)
 http://www.homeindia.com/
 http://www.bombaydesign.com/
 http://www.RajasthaniStore.com
 http://www.naseebcouture.com/
WESTERN BRIDAL RETAIL STORES
The acceptance and incorporation of western themed weddings has become a choice made by many
Bengalis who are open minded and are favorable to having a modern wedding. Most bridal gowns
purchased are from local tailors who also recognize the western trend of marrying in a white
written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

wedding gown. There are no specific designers in bridal dressing being offered to Bangladesh and
more often white wedding gowns of design nature are purchased overseas or via the Internet (see
websites above).
Due to Bangladesh’s majority religion being Muslim, it would be advisable to enter this market with
conservative styles of western theme with the traditional lehengas and sherwanis incorporating both
the western design with local traditions.
OCCASIONS
As Bengali weddings are held as a religious and follow customs and traditions the attire would follow
the Sari/Lehenga for women and Sherwanis for men, this would apply to all guests involved in the
wedding.
TRADITIONS
As noted above, Bengali weddings are in 4 parts:

“Gaye Holud” – individual ceremony that bears no religious or legal commitment. This is also known
as a turmeric ceremony and both the bride and groom hold a gaye holud a few days before the
actual wedding and legal commitments begin. (Gaye Holud – would be the Indian equivalent to the
Western culture of having bachelor/bachelorette parties, only that the Indian culture is strict on its
traditions and customs in their celebrations)
“Wedding ceremony” – (the following is from quoted from http://www.zeelearn.com/)
An auspicious date is selected for the mahurat. Thereafter, the house cleaning starts. Houses are
cleaned with mud, cow dung and water. Var is made and served to everybody.
 Wanvun (music party): Here the bride and the groom’s family assemble together and sing
songs. This is similar to the sangeet ceremony. Relatives and friends of both the families
participate in this ceremony.
 Maanzirat: The aunt of the bride and the groom decorate the door of the house. Mehndi is put
on her hands and feet. The ladies who are invited for this function sing songs throughout the
night.
 Devgan: It is a puja performed by both the families in their respective homes, in which prayers
are offered to Lord Shiva. All the gifts that are given to the bride are kept near the fire and are
duly worshipped. In this ritual flowers and a mixture of rice, milk, curd and water is showered
on the bride. After this she wears new clothes i.e. the traditional costume gifted to her by her
uncle.. Similarly the devgan ceremony is also held for the groom. He is presented with a new
set of clothes by his uncle.
 Duribat: The maternal relatives of the bride and the groom are invited for lunch at the
respective homes on the same day. The relatives carry gifts for the bride and the groom.
 Lagan (wedding): The arrival of the groom and his group is announced by the blowing of
conch shells. The bride is carried by her maternal uncle to the place where the groom is
standing. The eldest woman in the bride’s family then kisses the foreheads of the bride and
groom three times.
The purohit then leads the couple to the mandap. It starts with the rendering of shlokas. The
bride and the groom cross their arms over each other, which is covered with a piece of cloth.
A golden thread called manaanmal is tied on their foreheads. Then their left foot is kept on a
sacred grinding stone. They are then made to step on silver coins and the other six rounds
are made in accordance to the mantras. After all this the bride and the groom feed each other
with rice. This act signifies their position of becoming a man and wife.
 Bidaai: The maternal aunt here again kisses the bride and groom’s foreheads. The bride then
sits in a palanquin and bids a tearful goodbye to her parents, friends and relatives.
“Reception” – (the following is from quoted from http://www.zeelearn.com/)

 Reception: The most interesting thing here is the groom’s aunt does not allow the couple to
enter the house till he promises to get her something in kind. Only then the couple enters the
house. Two pigeons are set free to celebrate the bride’s arrival. Then the couple is taken to
the kitchen where the waza (traditional cook) serves them food. The bride changes into a new
set of clothes and wears the jewellery she would have received from her in-laws.
SOURCES & REFERENCES
http://www.bangladesh.com/wedding-customs/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_wedding
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaye_Holud
http://www.zeelearn.com/course/wedding/html/1a_3.htm
http://www.firstphera.com/FirstPheraBlogIndianWeddings/tabid/69/EntryID/38/Default.aspx
http://society.indianetzone.com/weddings/1/post_wedding_rituals.htm
http://www.surfindia.com/matrimonials/bengali-wedding.html
http://www.nationmaster.com/encyclopedia/Wedding-ceremony

BRUNEI
Located in Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea
and Malaysia. its capital being Bandar Seri Begawan. It is
majority made of the Muslim religion (67%) with 13% being
Buddhism. Its ethnically made-up of 66.3% Malay and 11.2%
Chinese. The culture of Brunei is predominantly Malay
(reflecting its ethnicity), with heavy influences from Islam, but
is seen as more conservative than Malaysia.
Observing the local customs and traditions is one of the main

concerns of any visitors in Brunei - may it be for business or
leisure, following these local customs is a must. One important
factor is the dress code, and especially observed by the women.
The Muslim religion places much importance in the proper
observance of rules regarding dress code for women, locals and
visitors alike.
“Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB) translates into Malay Islamic Monarchy; it is uniquely Bruneian in that it
blends the best traditions of the Malay culture with the religious teachings of Islam, loyalty to the
state and a mutual respect between ruler and subjects. This national custom is aimed at forging a
stronger sense of identity among Bruneians as well as to foster unity and stability. With His Majesty
the Sultan being the head of the Adat Istiadat (customs and tradition), MIB has thus been enshrined
in the constitution.” - quoted from http://www.bruneidirecthys.net/
During a bride's “Majlis Malam Berbedak” (see occasions & traditions below), its almost a followed
tradition to wear red attire (see image below left), covered with red Jong-Sarat as a Pengapit, Full
traditional head gear costume jewellery which comes with
matching bracelets, anklets and necklaces. Some opt for the
traditional songket and some wear lace. The smarter brides
often buy their own plain red material (Thai Silk being a
great choice), design a simple baju kurung with beads and
embroidery then send it to
their dress-makers. This way
the bride can also choose to
wear different colours
instead of red jong sarat,
they can wear either gold,
yellow or even orange jong-sarat with their red attire.
A handful of brides who like to be

different but still hold on to their
tradition, opt for colours that they
feel more comfortable in or
colours that compliment them
better. Many have worn Green as their attire and topped it off,
depending on the shade of green with either a lighter or darker
green jong sarat or to create a more stunning look, their green
attire (see image right) is topped off with a yellow-gold jongsarat.

BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids following Brunei Malay traditional weddings other
than all clothing must be matching in color and theme.
TUXEDOS
Grooms wear the traditional Berbedak attire for weddings (see image left)
that is complete with a headdress.
In 2007 Brunei saw its fifth Berbedak Royal Wedding between Her Royal
Highness Princess Hajah
Majeedah Nuurul Bulqiah and YM
Pengiran Khairul Khalil bin
Pengiran Syed Haji Jaafari.
The bride and groom (see image

right) were fully dressed in
customary traditional Malay attire
and adorned with traditional
ornaments.
BRIDAL BOUTIQUES IN BRUNEI
 Az Reen Bridal House. Tel: 876 5649

 Butik Citra Rubi. Tel: 242 0670
 Cintra Embun Design Couture. Tel: 223 1170
 DDGMIN Bridal Gallery & Tailoring. Tel: 234 1211
 Mutiara Ayu Boutique
 Myzura Bridal Gallery & Boutique. Tel: 223 2468
 N-Tre Company. Tel: 426 1092
 Purple Beauty Saloon & Boutique. Tel: 265 1172
OCCASIONS & TRADITIONS
Traditional Brunei Malay wedding consist of several events that are usually performed in a week or
two in timeframe. There are also pre-wedding customs are adhered to.
“Berjarum-jarum” - In the old days when men and women did not openly court each other, this
ceremony was meant to be an opportunity for the guy's representative, such as his parents, to find
out whether the girl is still available for marriage. Nowadays, it signals the start of the whole
process, when parents from both sides first meet each other. This is also when they discuss when
they can send a proper entourage to seal the formal engagement.

“Bertunang” or “Menghantar Tanda Pertunangan” - This is when the proper entourage comes to the
bride side. The groom side will usually offer 2 rings. One is called the "pembuka mulut" to signify the
groom's real interest to ask for the daughter's hand in marriage. The other is the official engagement
ring. Both sides will also discuss details on the upcoming wedding, particularly the date, as well as
the "hantaran" or lists of requests (wedding gifts) by the bride.
“Megantar Berian” - means delivering gifts which consists of all the requests during the engagement
ceremony, and may also include additional gifts by the groom. The bride would also, if she so wishes,
respond in kind. The delivery of the gifts is usually a grand affair, with an entourage of men or
women carrying silver trays adorned with beautiful cloths on top of which would display each gift.
“Berbedak Mandi” - is a ceremony to bless the soon-to-be groom and bride by close family members
especially the parents, siblings and elders in their own homes. Here, they are scrubbed with
traditional body-scrub powder which is applied to the whole body by the close family members. It
symbolizes fertility and wealth.
“Akad Nikah” - This is the solemnisation ceremony. It is presided over by a religious official and only
involves the groom. The bride is not usually present but she will be represented by her father or a
"wali" (legal family representative). Here, under the grace of Allah (God), the groom vows to accept
the bride's hand in front of witnesses.
“Malam Berbedak” - The Malam Berbedak or Night of Powdering is a ceremonial event where family
members and friends/family are invited to 'bless' the Bride/Groom by anointing the Bride/Groom
with an ointment made from colored rice flour and scented oils. The Bride and Groom are dressed
up in traditional Berbedak attire which is different for each one. The Bride has on a heavy brass
(sometimes gold plated) headgear that has either a symbol/statuette of a chicken (called Ayam-
ayam) or dragon (Naga) and is surrounded (wrapped) round with scented flowers. The groom has on
a songkok (Muslim hat) or Dastar (crown made from songket cloth). Both are adorn with brass/gold
plated arm bands, wrist bands, ankle bands and necklace. The Bride is also wrapped around her
waist with a kain songket (usually red) that was given by the groom as part of her dowry (hantaran).
“Malam Berinai/Berpacar/Pengganggunan” - The Berinai / Berpacar is an event usually attended by

close family and its also commonly known as the Henna Night. Here, the Bride, dressed up in attire
similar to the Malam Berbedak sits on the 'throne' with her hands on her lap and family members
apply a pinch of 'pacar' (Henna) on the palm of her hand. Bunga Rampai (fragrant shreddings of
pandan and flower petals) are also scattered over her hands signifying a blessing. Some weddings,
these may be carried out on the same night of the Malam Berbedak whilst others keep them
separate. This tradition is mostly practiced by only those in the Brunei Muara District and not in
Tutong or the other districts.
http://www.modernweddingadvice.com/2008/02/brunei-malay-wedding-traditions.html
http://bruneiforever.blogspot.com/2006/12/brunei-wedding.html
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_a_9zJcUk8L8/RfX45vULgEI/AAAAAAAABDU/b2IWyyiH01E/s1600-
h/Z0O3036.jpg
http://www.labuantourism.com.my/aboutlabuan/culture.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brunei_Malay_Weddings
http://bruneiweddingsfeatures.blogspot.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brunei

JORDAN
Jordan officially the Hashemite Kingdom of
Jordan, is an Arab country in Southwest Asia
spanning the southern part of the Syrian
Desert down to the Gulf of Aqaba. It shares
borders with Syria to the north, Iraq to the
north-east, Israel to the west, and Saudi
Arabia to the east and south. Much of
Jordan is covered by desert, particularly the
Arabian Desert; however the north-western
area, with the Jordan River, is regarded as
part of the Fertile Crescent. The capital city
of Amman is in the north-west.
Jordan is largely 98% Arab (50% Palestinian,

37% Jordanian, 8% Iraqi, 3% Egyptian) with 92% belonging to the Muslim faith.
Arabic weddings vary depending on the country and religion of the bride and groom. Arabs,
nowadays, have Western-like weddings, but still preserve most Arab customs and traditions
Although Christian weddings in the Arab World bear clear similarities to Western weddings, the
Muslim weddings in the Arab countries are influenced by Muslim traditions. Islam recognizes
marriage as an act of devotion to God and a solemn pact that must be respected by the couple
throughout their lives. Muslim weddings attach great significance to customs.
Arabs, as stated above, have taken on to hold their weddings in the western style and so the bride
would wear a white wedding dress for this special occasion.
The traditional wedding dress called “Sari” or “Lehenga” and traditionally

are in colors and shades of red (see image left). Any wedding ensemble in
any theme or tradition must have a richer feel and intricate embroidery.
The traditional dresses can be made from a wide variety of fabrics for the
bride to choose from and comes from the striking woven lengths such as
raw silk, brocade, and jacquard silk.
The work on the sari also depends on many factors. The first factor that
is kept in mind is the budget. If money is not an issue the next point
which is considered are the height and weight of the bride and the
weight of the bridal sari. Pricing varies dependant on fabric, embroidery
and choice of whether semi-precious stones or gold are desired.
Heavy bridal sari will have a

lot of zari work and embroidery. Embroidery can be
handmade embroidery or even ready made embroidery.
A lot of stones can be stuck on the saris to make them
brighter and give them that shiny look. The embroidery
can be done heavily on the pallu and a little lesser on
the insides. Bridal saris are generally heavy and so you
will find most of the saris have embroidery all over the
sari.

BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Traditional

Lehengas/Saris would be the acceptable and expected dressing for
female guests unless it has been requested for a western dress.
TUXEDOS
The groom may wear traditional “Shalwar Kameez” or Western suit. Most
common fabrics used to tailor Salwar Kameez include cotton, chiffon, silk,
banarsi fabrics. However grooms now opt for the black tuxedo for the
weddings (see image right).
 http://www.demetriosbride.com/intl/index.php?page=home
 http://www.preciousformals.com/
 http://www.bonny.com/
 http://www.evajordan.co.uk/
 http://www.victoriascollection.com/
The above websites are bridal retail stores supplying the western theme white wedding dress made
available for residents of Jordan. Some of the stores have local stores in Jordan supplying a few of
their ranges.
(partially quoted from http://www.shubhlagan.in/Traditions_Muslim.asp)
Arabic weddings vary depending on the country and religion of the bride and groom. Although
Christian weddings in the Arab World bear clear similarities to Western weddings, the Muslim
weddings in the Arab countries are influenced by Muslim traditions. Muslim weddings (pre-arranged
or not) start with a Shaikh and Al-Kitab (book) for the bride and groom. The groom may or may not
see his bride until the wedding day. Men and women in wedding ceremonies and receptions are
segregated affairs, with areas for both men and women.
An old tradition, now rarely observed, involves the women at the ceremony symbolically mourning
the loss of the bride by doing the "wedding wail". The bride's dress is an ornate Caftan, and the
bride's hands and feet are decorated in intricate lace-like patterns painted using a henna dye.
Customarily women guests do not show their hair, shoulders or legs; and all guests at a Mosque
remove their shoes on entering. Guests may give gifts to the bride and groom. Also, in many Arab
countries including Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and the Palestinian territories, the practice of carrying
the bride and groom on chairs and dancing in a circle around them (dabke) is still carried out today.
Many times, the bride and groom hold separate corners of a handkerchief.
The Nikaah or wedding ceremony can be conducted at the home

of the bride or the groom, or at any other convenient venue. A
Maulvi (priest) in the presence of close family members and
relatives conducts the ceremony. In orthodox Muslim
communities, the men and women are seated separately. The
'Walis' (the father of the bride and of the bridegroom) play an
important role in the ceremony. As a father, each must ensure

that the rights of his child are protected. The Maulvi reads selected verses from the Quran, the holy
book of the Muslims. The Nikaah is complete after thIjab-e-Qubul. (proposal and acceptance).
Usually, the boy's side proposes and the girl's side conveys her assent. The mutual consent of the
bride and groom is of great importance for the marriage to be legal. Neither of them must be forced
to enter into the marital contract.
It is on the day of the Nikaah that the elder members of the two families decide the amount of
Mehar (nuptial gift). The Mehar is a compulsory amount of money given by the groom's family to the
bride.
“Nikaahnama” - The Nikaahnaama is a document in which the marriage contract is registered. It

contains a set of terms and conditions that must be respected by both the parties. It also gives the
bride the right to divorce her husband. For the contract to be legal, it must be signed by the
bridegroom, the bride, the Walis, and the Maulvi.
“Blessing the groom” - The groom receives blessings from the older women and offers them his
salaam (a respectful salutation). The guests pray for the newly-weds.
“Dinner, Prayers and Aarsimashaf” - Dinner is a lavish spread. Usually, the women and the men dine
separately. After dinner, the newly-weds sit together for the first time. Their heads are covered by a
dupatta (traditional scarf) while they read prayers under the direction of the maulvi (priest). The
Quran is placed between the couple and they are allowed to see each only through mirrors (aarsi).
“Rukshat” - The bride's family bids her a tearful farewell before she departs for her husband's house.
The bride's father gives her hand to her husband and tells him to take protect and take good care of
her.
“Welcoming the bride” - The groom's mother holds the Quran above the head of her new daughter-
in-law as she enters her new home for the first time after the wedding.
“Chauthi” - The Chauthi is the fourth day after the wedding, when the bride visits the home of her
parents. She receives a joyous welcome on this day.
“Valimah” - The Valimah is the lavish reception that the groom's family hosts after the Nikaah. The
reception is held in a club, on the grounds of a Muslim gymkhana, or in a banquet hall. It is a joyous
occasion that brings together the two families, their relatives and other well-wishers.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan
http://www.jordanjubilee.com/meetfolk/marriage.htm
http://sgweddingfavors.com/blog/116/all-about-muslim-weddings/
http://books.google.com.hk/books?id=uxJXII_8_T4C&pg=PA96&lpg=PA96&dq=jordan+wedding+cus
toms&source=bl&ots=czOnNraqZq&sig=n3bBLDHVn8Dx4s2riBBA6NWR_ao&hl=en&ei=IEukSdGCGJio
6wOPxvDXAg&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=3&ct=result#PPA96,M1
http://infoonweddings.com/weddingcustoms.html#arabiccustom

MALDIVES
The Maldives or Maldive Islands, officially the Republic
of Maldives, is an island nation consisting of a group of
atolls stretching south of India's Lakshadweep islands
between Minicoy Island and the Chagos Archipelago,
and about seven hundred kilometres (435 mi) south-
west of Sri Lanka in the Laccadive Sea of Indian Ocean.
The twenty-six atolls of Maldives encompass a territory
featuring 1,192 islets, of which two hundred and fifty
islands are inhabited.
Malé is Maldives largest city and its capital city. The

Maldives is the smallest Asian country in terms of both
population and area; it is the smallest predominantly
Muslim nation in the world. It has its own history,
language, culture and traditions but influenced by
British, Arab, Indian and Sri Lankan cultures.
The country is officially Muslim, and the legal system has long been based on Islamic law. Social
control is exercised through religion. Every island has an Island Chief who is head of the mosque and
also represents the government. Since Maldives is a typically Muslim country so there are various
restrictions imposed on clothing. Following are the variety of restrictions:
 Women should keep their thighs and shoulders covered. Even if they are wearing shorts and
three quarters, yet the dress should definitely cover their thighs and shoulders.
 Bikinis are absolutely prohibited.
 Nude bathing is strictly prohibited.
 Women should not wear transparent clothing.
These restrictions regarding Maldives culture are strictly followed in Maldives.
The present customs of marriage and family also follow strict Islamic rules. As Muslims, men can
have as many as four wives. By Islamic law, the same man and woman can marry three times,
and if by chance, they get divorced and marry other partners, they are free to marry each other
for another three times.
Traditionally there was an element of pride, even piety, in a man having had many marriages. Some
individuals claim to have had forty to eighty marriages. This game of marriage is often the most
important entertainment in these isolated communities with their somewhat stultifying atmosphere.
“It seems as if the Maldives was created especially for honeymoons," freelance journalist Petrina
Nyström says. "It offers the ultimate in romantic setting, atmosphere and privacy. The islands are
best enjoyed in a bungalow, a villa on the water or on the beach, but be sure to book early, many
places are booked out well in advance." – Maldives has now become a popular destination to hold
wedding ceremonies and thus the western theme is predominantly the tradition that is used.
Maldivian sarong is the traditional attire and usually worn for weddings by locals. Maldivians are
casual whilst still adhering to the Islamic customs.

BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids for a Maldives traditional wedding. Female guests
would typically wear a sarong with vibrant colours to keep the enthusiasm and joy of the wedding
and would be advisable to wear sarongs due to the heat conditions.
TUXEDOS
The groom has two options for his outfit, the traditional sarong that matches the brides’ or a tuxedo.
The groom oftentimes wears white or crème or light gold silk top to match with the silky sheet which
is folded into traditional pants style.
As Maldives is not as cultivated as other cities, western bridal retail stores are not common nor a
good venture to have. Most commonly those wishing to wed in the western tradition in Maldives
purchase their own bridal wear from their originating country or online.
 http://bridalmaldives.com/
 http://www.maldivesbridalgallery.com/
(quoted from http://www.tourisminmaldives.com/about-maldives/maldives-wedding.html)
The exotic country of Maldives is a popular wedding destination. The beautiful beaches, tranquil
waters of the sea, colorful coral reefs and the fantastic resorts offer the perfect place for a romantic
Maldives Wedding.
The country follows the Muslim system of marriage. The marriage ceremonies in Maldives are
conducted by the Atoll Chiefs and the 'gazis'. Registered marriage is practiced in Maldives. The
marriage ceremonies are held in the mosques or in private halls. Feasts are prepared and a large
number of people are invited in these occasions. Many also serve as a wedding destination for a
large number of tourists.
The wedding ceremonies in Maldives are usually held in the golden beaches or in the resorts and in
the hotels. The wedding venues and the function halls are decorated with lights, balloons, colorful
ribbons and flowers.
Marriage is an important institution in Maldives. There are certain rules of getting married in
Maldives. The couple is escorted by four people from their rooms and taken to the wedding venue.
The bride is dressed in a white gown, while the groom is dressed in a black and white suite. Local
drumbeaters are hired to perform the local traditional dance Bodu-beru. Initially, a tree planting
ceremony is conducted. The couple is taken to the plantation arena where they plant a coconut
palm as a symbol of their everlasting love.
After this ceremony, the couple is taken to the priest where they take their wedding vows. After the
marriage ceremony is over, the couple is offered coconut water. Thereafter, the couple is made to
cut the wedding cake. Once the cake cutting ceremony is completed, the guests are offered
champagne.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maldives
http://www.iias.nl/iiasn/iiasn5/insouasi/maloney.html
http://www.skorpion-maldives.com/weddings/kanuhura.htm
http://www.islandbrides.co.za/html/maldives.html
http://www.islandbrides.co.za/html/weddings3.html
http://www.maldiveisle.com/culture.htm
http://www.maldiveisle.com/maldivesnews/2004/marriageceremoniesfortourists.htm
http://www.maldivesbridalgallery.com/
http://www.chaayamaldives.com/maldives.cfm

MONGOLIA
Mongolia is a large landlocked country, in
area about three times the size of France.
It is located in Northeastern Asia, south of
Siberia and north of China and borders
with Russia on the north and the People's
Republic of China on the south. Mongols
are people with an ancient and glorious
history. The country's capital is
Ulaanbaatar. The great majority (about 85
percent) of Mongolians are Khalkh
Mongols. About 10 percent are members
of other Mongol confederations and
tribes (Barga, Bayad, Buriad, Dariganga, Darkhad, Khoton, Myangad, Oold, Torguud, Tsaatan, Tuva,
Uriankhai, Uzemchin, Zakhchin), and 5 percent are of Kazakh, Russian, Chinese, Korean, or other
descent.
The majority of the Mongolian people still follow a nomadic way of life, living in white felt tents
known as “geys”. The southern third of the country is covered by the Gobi Desert, whilst the
remainder features a stunning array of crystal-clear lakes, forests, grasslands and mountainous
peaks. This scenic country is proudly independent, with a dramatic history.
Its intricate culture has been strongly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.
A traditional wedding in Mongolia is a pact between two families that is sealed by a civil ceremony.
However, modern customs are now changing the face of urban weddings. The marriage may be
celebrated in a special wedding palace, and the bride and groom will leave in a limousine. Guests will
bring gifts and traditional or modern wedding outfits may be won. Traditional dress is a beautiful
Mongolian tunic, made of raw silk, decorated with appliquéd brocade.
Throughout the period of Russian rule within Mongolia, the government tried to make the people
get married in a European style wedding. There is a Wedding Palace in Ulaanbaatar in which people
can go to have their European style wedding. In the countryside the tradition has been kept, and
since democracy has come to Mongolia, many more people are turning their backs on the European
standard and returning to their traditional ceremony.
The traditional wedding ceremony in Mongolia requires a traditional attired called "Del".
The Del is made from cotton and silk with patterns.
Del is loose calf-length tunic made of one piece of
material. It has long sleeves, a high collar and
buttons on the right shoulder. The Del buttons, if not
commercially produced from decorative stones or
silver, are narrow strips of cloth tied into intricate
knots. Each ethnic group living in Mongolia has its
own individual Del, distinguished by its cut, color
and trimming. Red signified good fortune and wealth
and happiness and thus used in woman's wedding
garments (see image right).

BRIDES MAIDS
There is no specific attire for the role of the brides maid

however the traditional Mongolian Del would apply. The
costumes should be bright and in keeping with the enthusiasm
and spirit of the wedding (see image left).
TUXEDOS
The groom also wears the traditional del for the

wedding and usually in dark colours as opposed to the
brides’ lighter colours.
Standing at 7 foot 9 inches

and towering over his new
wife the world's tallest man
married a woman two-
thirds his size and almost
half his age in a traditional
Mongolian ceremony in the
Summer of 2007 (see
image left).
Draped in a shimmering
blue silk coat, Bao (the
groom see image above)
waved to the crowd before going into an enormous yurt where guests ate
lamb and cheese and watched Mongolian song and dance shows.
As mentioned above, during the period of Russian ruling within Mongolia, the government was keen
to introduce the European style wedding into the country. As a result of this there is a Wedding
Palace in Ulaanbaatar in which people can go to have their wedding in the western style. In the
countryside however, the tradition of Mongolia remains and since democracy has come to
Mongolia, many more people are turning their backs on the European standard and returning to
their traditional ceremony.
 http://www.bridal-online.co.uk/ (online retail bridal store that ships to Mongolia)
Having gowns custom and tailor made in Mongolia is cost efficient plus fabrics would be selective in
colour and texture.
(quoted from http://www.mongolia.com.hk/english/country_info/country_info-6-01.htm)
In western Mongolia, before the actual marriage, certain customs are followed. The parents of the
bridegroom or the matchmaker first make an offer to the girl's parents, who give a reply a couple of

days later. On the designated day, the matchmaker visits the bride's ger and the girl's mother says in
a matter-of-fact way, "We asked our daughter, who was almost against marrying your boy, but we
believe they will in the future find a common language." This kind of answer is tantamount to
consent. And if the answer is negative, the girl's parents say, "Our daughter is against the marriage,
therefore we return the hadag you gave us.
After the parents of the boy and girl agree on the match, both sides see a lama to set the time and
date for the wedding, and ten days later the father of the bridegroom visits the bride with the two
match-makers. The father offers a hadag and the wedding ceremony takes place within one to three
years. Six months after the date is fixed, the bridegroom - with his matchmaker -visits his future wife
and in-laws, who give a small party. After a further six months, the parents of the bridegroom give
the bride's parents a fox skin, a horse for riding, a brick of green tea, wine and dried cheese; the
mother of the bridegroom brings silk cloth to make a gown for her future daughter-in-law. Among
the Halh, the mother of the boy usually makes the clothes for her daughter-in-law, and the bride's
side makes a bridle, saddle, and harness for the future son-in-law. When all the preparations are
completed, the bridegroom temporarily moves to his future home and puts up his ger some 200-300
m behind his parents-in-law's ger, and the next day, the entire family of the bridegroom visits the
bride's ger to take away their daughter-in-law. She is taken on a white horse and when she arrives at
her new home, two of her friends dress her up and make two plaits in her hair, which signifies that
she is a married woman. As a wife, she makes her first tea, which she offers to the guests, and the
wedding party begins.
The bride visits her parents only three years after the official wedding; they give her the five kinds of
domestic animals and also the things which she had been using.
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/mongolia
http://www.country-studies.com/mongolia/kinship,-family,-and-marriage.html
http://www.igougo.com/journal-j1183-Arhangai-Mongolian_Wedding.html
http://www.cultural-china.com/chinaWH/html/en/14Traditions2215.html
http://www.chinavista.com/experience/inner/mongolian.html
http://www.korkahnawake.org/mongolia.html
http://knows.jongo.com/res/article/17488
http://www.articlesbase.com/weddings-articles/mongolian-wedding-668994.html
http://www.world-weddings.com/wedding_locations/asia/mongolia.html
http://www.weddingsbyeternal-malaysia.com/
http://eng.nmgnews.com.cn/system/2008/10/16/010124532.shtml
http://countrystudies.us/mongolia/43.htm
http://bataa3.blogspot.com/2005/06/wedding-in-mongolia.html

TAIWAN
Located in Eastern Asia and north of Philippines and off the
southeastern coast of China its capital city is Taipei with
93% mixture of Buddhist and Taoists faith.
Traditional color of red is worn following Chinese customs.

The Chinese have a saying about marriage: that it is natural
to get married when you grow up. They place special
emphasis on marriage and have many traditions associated
with it. Red is considered to be a lucky colour in China, so it
seems obvious that it would play a significant role in such
an important ceremony. The wedding invitations are red,
gift envelopes are red and so is one of the brides wedding
dresses.
Throughout history, the Chinese created a method of

weaving patterns into fabric, mostly made of silk, instead of embroidering, printing or otherwise
stamping the patterns onto the fabric. This method is known as the brocade and this method of
brocading is used in traditional attire for special occasions.
A Chinese wedding must include the colour red, and ceremonial objects such as candles and attire
must exclude white. Red ink on white paper is considered a death threat, so invitations or menus
with this combination are considered taboo. White roses may be acceptable in the bridal bouquet,
as long as they are held together with colored ribbons. Any other white flowers suggest death and
are used in funerals, so roses are the more favourable choice.
Red is the color of happiness to Chinese and is especially symbolic for weddings. White, by contrast,
is for funerals. The Chinese traditional wedding attire has many variations as China itself has more
than 150 different cultures and ethnic groups. In Taiwan the traditional wedding dress for the bride
is called “Kwa” (see images below).
As the Chinese are very symbolic it is of tradition to brocade the images onto
the fabric. These brocades traditionally feature Chinese wedding
symbols such as the Shuang Xi, which represents “double happiness”
because of its two xi (meaning “joy”) characters placed side-by-side, or
the dragon and phoenix symbols. The phoenix symbol is brocaded into the
bride’s attire as a flaming crested bird with a long tale and symbolizes the
powerful Phoenix with her life- giving song.

BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Usually a formal dress of pastel colours is worn by
close female friends or formal attire.
TUXEDOS
For the groom the traditional wedding attire is called a “Da Gua” (see
image right) featuring front-closing tunics that are either hip or knee
length, they are typically made of the same fabric of the bride’s.
As aforementioned above, the use of brocading symbols onto the

traditional wedding attire is symbolic and for the groom, the dragon
symbol is mostly brocaded. The dragon represents masculine power
symbolizing a powerful Emperor in ancient mythology. The idea is that
both the bride and groom are seen as the “Empress and Emperor” for
the day, wherein the dragon represents the mighty Emperor, with his
majestically powerful Phoenix by his side.
Taiwan’s capital city Taipei has dedicated a street to bridal wear and wedding adornments aptly
named Taipei Bridal Street. Another location for bridal retail stores is Zhongshan (Jhongshan) North
Road. Bridal shops in Taiwan have kept in line with international bridal wear fashion houses and
have paid increasing attention to gowns by offering custom-made services.
Julia - http://www.juliaweddingnews.com/ founded

in 1987 has become notably one of the top bridal
retail stores in Taiwan and attracts customers ranging
from celebrities to overseas clientele who travel
specially to Taiwan for their meticulous designs and
gowns.
http://www.fashionmonger.com.tw/2007/figure.
htm?gclid=CK3gjr648ZgCFQZLbwodJj4g0g
 Notable wedding dress designer of Chinese origin is Hong Kong’s Dorian Ho, whose
collections are now considered amongst the high end fashion market.
http://www.dorianho.net/

(quoted from http://www.chineseweddingsbytheknot.com/)
Pre-ceremony Traditions
1) Obtaining the Bride

In Chinese culture, it was customary for firecrackers, loud gongs, and drums to mark the start of the
procession (and fend off evil spirits) from the groom's home to the bride's house. The groom would
lead a procession, accompanied by a child (to symbolize future sons). Attendants with lanterns, as
well as banners, musicians, and a dancing lion would follow.
2) Bridesmaid Games
When the groom arrived at the bride's house, the groom's party would be met by the bride's friends,
who would haggle with the groom or his representatives. They would make him perform stunts or
tricks, and not "surrender" their friend until they were satisfied with red packets of money.
3) Arriving at the Groom's House

As the couple made their way back to the groom's house, firecrackers would be set off just before
the procession arrived. A red mat would be placed before the sedan chair for the bride so that her
feet wouldn't have to touch the bare earth. The entire household would be waiting to receive her.
The bride would be required to step over a saddle or a lit stove to cross the threshold -- the fire was
thought to cast out evil influences.
Ceremonial Rites
1) The Ceremony
Chinese ceremonies are historically simple compared to other Chinese wedding elements. (In fact,
the wedding ceremony was seen more as a way to announce the wedding, which was then followed
by the banquet.) During the ceremony, the bride and groom would stand at the family altar, where
they would pay homage to heaven and earth, the family ancestors, and the kitchen god, Tsao-Chün.
Tea, usually with two lotus seeds or two red dates in each cup, would be offered to the groom's
parents. Finally, the bride and groom would bow to each other -- completing the ceremony.
2) The Nuptial Chamber

Immediately following the ceremony, the couple was led to the bridal chamber, where both would
sit on the bed. In some areas of China, honey and wine were poured into two goblets linked by a red
thread. The bride and groom would take a few sips, then exchange cups and drink the rest.
3) Tea Ceremony
Either following the wedding ceremony or sometimes the next day, the newlyweds would serve tea
to the groom's family. The couple would serve tea in order, starting with the groom's parents then
proceeding from the oldest family member to the youngest. After the tea was offered and a sip was
taken, the couple would receive lucky red envelopes (lai see) filled with money or jewelry. This was
considered the formal introduction of the families.
The Celebration
1) Wedding Banquet
The parents of the bride and groom would often host separate wedding feasts. There might be a
single feast for each family, or a series of feasts over several days. The most important feast was
considered to be the one given by the groom's family on the day of the wedding. This banquet was
seen as a public recognition of the union. Historically, the more lavish the display and the more food
and leftovers, the more wealthy the hosts. Most of the foods commonly served were symbolic -- a

whole fish would be served because the word for fish, yu, sounds like the word for plenty, meaning a
wish for abundance. Serving sweet lotus seeds for dessert symbolized a wish for many children.
2) The Day after the Wedding

The day after the wedding, the bride would wake up early to honor her ancestors at dawn. It was
then that she would also be formally introduced to all of the groom's relatives and friends. As she
knelt before each of the older relatives, she would receive a small gift. The groom's parents would
then give her a title, according to her new husband's seniority in the family.
3) Three Days After the Wedding

Three days after the wedding, the newlyweds would pay a visit to the bride's family at home. At this
time, the bride would no longer be considered a part of her family, but rather a guest in her parents'
house.
http://traditions.cultural-china.com/en/14Traditions2618.html
http://www.seadolby.com/taiwan/marryc.html
http://www.fibre2fashion.com/industry-article/7/608/traditional-wedding-dresses1.asp
http://www.chineseweddingsbytheknot.com/articles/article.aspx?articleid=A60919094253
http://taiwanreview.nat.gov.tw/fp.asp?xItem=1117&CtNode=128
http://bruidsbeurzen.nl/fashion/2008/08/
http://www.weddingmapper.com/plan/vendor/taiwan/taipei/wedding_party_attire/the_dessy_gro
up/53715

BHUTAN
Located at the eastern end of the Himalaya Mountains, Bhutan is
a nation in South Asia sharing borders with India and the People’s
Republic of China.
Bhutanese weddings are a combination of Buddhism faith,

religion, legal formalities and rites. Unlike western culture,
Bhutanese weddings are heavily based on a set of traditions and
rituals leading up to the legal formalities. There are three types of
marriages in Bhutan custom; arranged marriages, marriages
amongst cross-cousins and the custom Bhutanese marriage.
The men in Bhutan wear a "gho," a long knee-length robe that is tied
around the waist by a belt and the women wear a "kira," which is an ankle-
length dress worn with a short jacket. To preserve the ancient customs
from being influenced by the West, the Bhutanese government has made it
compulsory for all Bhutanese to wear only their national dress in public.
However western influences have also been accepted and noted in Bhutan
for weddings held by foreigners (Hong Kong celebrity Tony Leung’s
marriage to Carina Lau in 2008 held in Bhutan pictured left).
Not worn by the bride in Buddhist weddings. Normally, the bride wears the clothes given to her by
her parents. As there are several customs to the wedding, there are several changes of clothing (see
occasions below) however the traditional colours for the bride is red. A simple cotton kira can cost
from 4,000NU (Bhutan Ngultrum) which is US$80.58 to 80,000NU (US$1611.60) being made in silk.
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids as the wedding itself is mainly focused on the bride
and groom. However should there be any bridesmaids involved in the ceremony then the natural
Bhutanese requirements of a kira would follow.
TUXEDOS
Ghos are the traditional men costume and prices range from 2,000NU (US$40.26) if made by
machine-woven cloth to 12,000NU (US$241.59) made by silk.
SHOPPING
No specific designer for wedding attire. Shopping district of Timphu is the recommended area for
purchasing Ghos and Kiras.
As there is no specified unique and well known bridal store in Bhutan, a retail store offering
alternative bridal attire would be welcomed. (Note Carina Lau’s gown was a Vera Wang) The
clientele would mainly be foreigners wishing to hold their wedding ceremony in Bhutan and
Bhutanese people who wish to add a western theme into their wedding ceremony.

OCCASIONS
As noted above, Bhutanese marriages have rituals and rites as part of the wedding and marriage
following the Buddhist faith.
http://www.bookrags.com/research/clothing-traditionalbhutan-ema-02/
http://bhutan.saarctourism.org/bhutan-clture.html
http://books.google.com.hk/books?id=GJvvxP-
eS_EC&pg=PA113&lpg=PA113&dq=shopping+bhutanese+kira&source=bl&ots=BlPNznr7Qd&sig=Oaa
nSWLWHeDXnEaeUKoLi0p8iCU&hl=en&ei=IXqdSb2RF5SM6gON_rjRAw&sa=X&oi=book_result&resn
um=2&ct=result
http://www.insidersbhutan.com/Pages/Trips/Tours/wdg.html
http://asianfanatics.net/forum/Bhutans-Prince-helps-Carina-Lau-and-Tony-Leung-prepare-for-their-
Wedding-talk562497.html
http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Asia/Bhutan/Shopping-Bhutan-BR-1.html

BURMA
Burma, officially the Union of Myanmar with its capital city being
Naypyidaw is the largest country by geographical area in mainland
Southeast Asia, or Indochina. The country is bordered by the People's
Republic of China on the northeast, Laos on the east, Thailand on the
southeast, Bangladesh on the west, India on the northwest, and the Bay
of Bengal to the southwest with the Gulf of Martaban and Andaman Sea .
The Burmese people are an ethnic make-up of 68% Burman, 9% Shan, 7%

Karen, 3% Chinese and other of other Asian ethnicities. The greater part
of Burmese people are Buddhist in religious beliefs with a small
percentage of those holding Christian, Baptist, Roman Catholic and
Muslim faiths.
People with a basic knowledge of the culture and custom of Myanmar will
find it easy to live with its citizens without friction or discord, and leave in
the same fashion. Though Myanmar social customs are quite flexible, the
ground rules are important for convivial inter change.
The traditional wedding dress of Burma

focuses on the embroidery and
embedment of beads, sequences and
pearls as opposed and are often white in
colour (see image left).
The bride's gown is a two-piece dress

called “longhi” and “angyi” and is
accompanied with a chiffon shawl.
Colours of white, ivory, pearl and peach are the popular choices for Burmese wedding dresses.
http://www.myanmardresses.com/weddingdresses.html
The above website claims to be the only site that sells wedding dresses in Burma. All are in following
with the Burmese tradition.
Prices listed for the wedding attire from the website are between US$ 550 – USD$780 for a set
which includes attire for both the bride and groom. Prices for dresses for the bride only starts from
US$420.
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Wedding attire for family is often traditional, but for
everyone else almost anything goes.

TUXEDOS
Grooms attire is also called a “longhi” or “sarong” (see image right).
WEBSITES – (INCLUDES VARIATION ON PRICES, FABRIC,

DESIGNS ON ALL ATTIRE)
 http://www.myanmardresses.com/weddingdresses.html
The Burmese people are traditional by nature and exercise their

customs without hesitation. The introduction of a western bridal
retail store in Burma would be unadvisable as it may disrupt
traditions and customs that have been preserved by the Burmese
people.
A Burmese wedding can be religious or secular and extravagant or simple. Traditionally, a marriage is
recognized with or without a ceremony when the man's paso (longhi/sarong) is seen hanging from a
rail of the house or if the couple eats from the same plate.
However, many Burmese couples opt for more extravagant affairs. Generally speaking, Buddhist
monks need not be present to conduct the wedding and solemnize the marriage. A more
extravagant wedding requires months of preparation, including consultation with an astrologer in
choosing the most auspicious time and setting of the event. Also, a master of ceremonies, typically a
Brahmin, is hired to preside over the ceremony.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burmese_culture#Marriage
http://www.travelblog.org/Asia/Burma/Yangon/blog-27506.html
http://www.yadanabon.com/culture_custom.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burma

CAMBODIA
Located in southeastern Asia and bordering the Gulf of
Thailand, between Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos its capital
city is Phnom Penh. Largely made up of Khmer 90%
followed by a small percentage of Vietnamese 5% and
Chinese 1% its majority faith is Buddhism.
The Cambodian tradition of marriages is unique in its

own right. The majority of couples have arranged
marriages according to tradition. In some cases the
match is actually made between two people since
childhood. When they reach the right age they are
married off as per the agreement that was made during
their childhood. This practice has however declined with
the passage of time. A proper Khmer wedding is very
colourful and filled with ceremonies and celebrations. It
can last from as short as one morning to as long as three days and nights, depending on the financial
situation and social status of the bride and groom’s families. Marriage is a very important institution
for Cambodians. The courtship practices and the marriage ceremony are very different from those
practiced in the Western culture.
The bride may change her outfit several times in one day. If the
wedding were a weeklong affair, she could declare the color of her
dress each day and the guests would dress only in that color.
Cambodian Silk “Kabens” or “Sampots” are the traditional

costume names and wedding costumes are typically made from
Cambodian Silk with elaborate embroidery and design.
Heavy importance is centered on the traditions and ceremonies

itself so wedding attire is made by tailors upon choosing fabric and
embroidery work. Pricing varies dependant on fabric, embroidery
and choice of whether semi-precious stones or gold are desired.
Silk weaving is an integral part of Cambodia’s cultural heritage and
so is used for all occasions in Cambodia life.
Traditional Khmer wedding costumes
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Traditional costumes are usually worn and colors are
shades of the brides chosen color.
TUXEDOS
The groom wears traditional Cambodian costumes that match in color and or a variation of shade of
the chosen color. Typically themes of Yellow & Gold are chosen.

 https://www.ksilks.com/shop/
 http://salon.camintertrade.com/
 http://www.cheymongkol.co.nr/
CONTACT TO RETAIL STORES IN CAMBODIA
Many retail stores and companies in Cambodia do not have the added benefit of the Internet; names
and contact details supplied below:
Sokunna Custom Wedding New Style Wedding Embellishment

Nº. 102E1, Samdech Pan (St. 214) Nº. 226, Sihanouk (St. 274)
12258 Phnom Penh, 12303 Phnom Penh,
TEL 012 833 289 TEL 012 806 336
TEL 012 336 191 TEL 016 331 196
TEL 016 331 196
E-Mail
Santhormok Taon Chet Wedding Embellishment & Tailor

Nº. 488A, Mao Tse Toung (St. 245)
12156 Phnom Penh,
HP011 839 939
Most bridal gowns purchased are from local tailors and are custom made following Cambodian
traditional weddings. There are no specific designers in bridal dressing being offered to Cambodia
and more often white wedding gowns of design nature are purchased overseas or via the Internet
(see websites above).
Due to Cambodia’s strict traditional values and practices, it would be advisable to enter this market
with conservative styles of western theme however more importance in offering traditional
costumes incorporating both the western design with local traditions. As Cambodia is in production
of their own fabrics, retail stores of brand kind would not attract the same interest as it would in
other more westernized countries.
Depending on the needs of the bride & groom and their family hierarchy will determine how many
changes the bride would make throughout the wedding ceremony. Some Cambodians have
incorporated a western theme into their wedding reception or for photography and where the
marriage is an inter-racial.
Cambodian weddings traditionally consisted of ceremonies and celebrations lasting three days and
three nights. Three is considered to be an especially auspicious number by Cambodians because of
its association with the "three jewels" of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Sangha (brotherhood of
monks), and the Dhamma (the Buddha's teachings).
Traditional Cambodian weddings hold the following ceremonies:
 Hai Goan Gomloh (Groom's Processional)

 Sien Doan Taa (Call to Ancestors)
 Soat Mun (Blessings from the Monks)
 Gaat Sah (Cleansing Ceremony)
 Bang Chhat Madaily(Honoring of the Parents)
 Bongvul Pbopul (Passing of Blessings)
 Sompeas Ptem (Knot Tying Ceremony)
Modern Cambodian weddings incorporate only a few of the

ceremonies, detailed below (quoted from
http://mongkol.wordpress.com/2007/03/11/cambodian-wedding/)
Costumes for Haircutting Ceremony
The wedding begins early in the morning with the bridegroom, dressed in traditional Cambodian
costume, and his family travelling to the bride’s home bearing gifts to the bride’s family as dowry.
Family members and friends are introduced, and wedding rings exchanged.
This is followed by breakfast of porridge, fruit and sweets while the master of ceremony and
companion keep the audience entertained with folk songs. Among Cambodians of Chinese descent,
the tea ceremony will be held before breakfast for the guests.
Breakfast is followed by the hair-cutting ceremony which is a must at all weddings. It is a traditional
rite handed down from the old days to add merriment to the wedding. Although in the old
days the hair-cutting was for real, nowadays a mock hair cut is staged. The couple, having changed
into traditional outfits of gold and yellow, are seated on decorated chairs. The master of ceremony
and his companion then teases them and the family members much to the delight of those present.
Carrying a tray with scissors, a comb and a bottle of hair spray, the first person given the honour to
cut their hair is the family matriarch, who pretends to cut the hair of the bridegroom. Soon she
retrieves a gold ring from the hair which have earlier been placed there by the priest. She does the
same to the bride after which the expensive hair spray is used. This ritual is repeated by other
elderly folk at the ceremony. Retrieving the gold or silver rings is to signify that the couple will have a
prosperous life.
The solemnisation of the wedding then follows. The bridegroom, after another change of clothes —
this time dressed like royalty, approaches the entrance of the house where the bride, in a dazzling
red outfit with gold embroidery, awaits him. During the proper wedding ceremony, the bride can go
up to 10 dress changes to pose for photos.
The washing of the feet ceremony is held where traditionally the bride placed the groom’s feet on a
tray and washed them. These days, however, she merely sprays cologne over the feet. The priest
holds their hands together and chants. And after blessings from the parents, the couple put their
hands on a pillow and a sword is placed across their closed palms. In this final and most memorable
stage of the wedding, family members and friends tie the bride and groom’s left and right wrists
with blessing strings. The praises and well-wishes of happiness, good health, success, prosperity, and
long-lasting love are acknowledged and witnessed by the loud sound of the gong and joyful cheer.
The ceremony is concluded with a shower of palm flowers thrown over the new couple and a
sumptuous dinner later at night with more songs and dances to entertain everyone.
http://www.thingsasian.com/stories-photos/2123
http://www.parish-without-borders.net/cditt/cambodia/culture/2007/weddings.htm
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/articles/article/Cambodia/Cambodian-Traditional-Wedding/1692

http://www.gluckman.com/CambodiaWed.html
http://www.thephnompen.com/2007/06/khmer-wedding-protocol.html
http://www.khmerwedding.com/
http://www.cambodiazone.com/finearts/cambodian-silks.htm
https://www.ksilks.com/fairtrade/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=24&Itemid=49
http://cambodianculture.wordpress.com/

CYPRUS
Located in the Middle East, Cyprus is an
island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of
Turkey with Nicosia being its capital city.
Its ethnic make-up is 77% Greek with 18%
Turkish and is predominantly Greek
Orthodox with a small percentage
believing in the Muslim and Catholic faith.
Cyprus has become a popular destination for foreigners to hold their wedding and due to this
popularity many wedding services and retail stores have established themselves to help facilitate
this trend.
ATELIE LENIA
Address: 155A, Ayias Fylaxeos & Spyrou Kyprianou Str., Limassol, Cyprus
Tel.: +357-25 339155, Mob. +357-99 627695
E-mail: [email protected], Web: www.atelielenia.com
CALIA MONOYIOU
Address: 6A Ayias Zonis Str., 3026 Limassol, Cyprus

Tel.: +357-25 871087, Fax: +357-25 359496
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.monoyiou.com
CHOIX BY ATELIER 61
Address: 61, Griva Digeni Str.,

3101 Limassol, Cyprus
Tel.: +357-25584296, Mob.:
99498104, 99956206
Web: www.choixbyatelier61.com

COMPLICE - STALO THEODOROU
Address: Showroom: Mnasiadou 22, 1065 - Nicosia, Cyprus,
Tel.+357-22 670483
Tel.: +357-22 381856, Fax: +357-22 380079
E-mail: [email protected], Web: http://www.complice-st.com
ENTIAS WEDDING DREAMS

Address: 7 Nicou Kranidioti Str., Tower 5,Shop St, Engomi,(near Alpha Mega
round about), 2411 Nicosia, Cyprus
Tel.: +357-22 329359, Mob. +357-99 498775, 99 548129,
Fax: +357-22 382836
NIFIKO SALONI SOFIAS
Address: 9 Stratigou
Timagia Avenue, Larnaca,
Cyprus
Tel.: +357-24 660011,
Fax: +357-24 663855
PARADISE WEDDING DREAM & FLOWERSHOP
Address: 9, Agapinoros Str., Pafos, Cyprus

Tel.: +357-26 934254, Fax: +357-26 935242,
Mob. +357-99 494274
E-mail: [email protected],
Web: www.paradiseweddingdream.com

POPI MICHAELIDOU ATELIER
Address: Ayiou Andreou & Salaminos 9, Limassol, Cyprus,

Nicosia Showroom: 71, Arch. Makariou Ave., Nicosia, Cyprus
Tel.: Limassol:+357-25 763350,Nicosia: +357-22 374792, Fax:
+357-25 763351
Web: www.ateliepopimichaelidou.com
ROBE DE NOCES
Address: 95 B, Makarios III Avenue, Limassol, Cyprus

Tel.: +357-25 385205, Mob.+357-99 421542, 99 413629
Web: www.robedenoces.com
BRIDES MAIDS
The traditions of bridesmaids following a western wedding would apply. Above websites offer
dresses catering to these needs.
TUXEDOS
Following websites offers attire for the groom to match their bride following their decision on a
western wedding theme.
CARLUCCI CLOTHING GALLERY

Address: 181 Anexartisias, 3040 Limassol, Cyprus
Tel.: +357-25 364951, Fax: +357-25 372430
KOUROSS
Address: Nicosia: 31 Stasicratous Str., Tel.: +357-

22 660497, Fax: +357-22 660499
Limassol: 178 Anexartisias Str., Tel.: +357-25
354584, 25 749594, Fax: +357-25 340564
Maximos Plaza, Tel.: +357-25 585454
Larnaca: 162 Ermou Str., Tel.: +357-24 665256,
Paphos: 38 Apostolou Pavlou Str., Tel.+357-26 912606, Fax: +357-26
912853
E-mail: [email protected], Web: http://www.kourossfashions.com

STATUS
Address: 14E, Salaminos Street, Limassol, Cyprus
Tel.: +357-25 356607, 25 356608, Mob.99 624456, Fax: +357-25
824611
“A Guests Guide to Cypriot Weddings” By Alexia Antoniou
Cloths:
Your attire depends on where the wedding is taking place; village weddings are still very traditional
in their ways. The big towns and villages are more relaxed in their attitudes.
It is acceptable to wear a button hole or small spray, it is not necessary to wear a hat. Town Wedding
Any kind of evening dress, sort or long, or smart attire is acceptable. For the gentlemen a dark suit
with collar and tie.
Any attire is acceptable for a small child.
Village Wedding
Dress needs to be more conservative, anything flashy would be unacceptable, and it is preferable for
the top of the arms to be covered, it would be acceptable for a man to wear trousers and a sports
jacket with an open neck shirt, for the ladies it would be inappropriate to wear evening attire, smart
day wear is the order of the day.
The Wedding Service
The Bride and Groom sometimes arrive at the church together, usually the groom waits outside the
church, with the brides bouquet. In a village they will arrive on foot, but in a town it is likely they will
arrive in a taxi and walk the last few yards.
Parents of the bride give the bride away outside the church.
Guests wait outside for the couple to arrive. The wedding starts at the grooms house, the brides
father often walks his daughter to the church.
The bride and groom walk up the aisle together, both sets of parents stand with the couple.
The chief bridesmaid is called koumera, the best man, Koumbaros. The koumbaros, traditionally the
groom's godfather, is an honored guest who participates in the wedding ceremony. Today, the
koumbaros is very often the best man, who assists in the crowning of the couple, and in the circling
of the alter three times. Other attendants may read Scripture, hold candles, pack the crowns in a

special box after the ceremony. To be sure of a "sweet life", a Greek bride may carry a lump of sugar
in her glove on wedding day.
Once inside the greeting and chatting often continues throughout the wedding.
It is totally acceptable to take photographs during the ceremony, just don't get in the way of the
official photographer or any high ranking family member taking photographs.
Things you will see during the service:

Most things happen in threes, this is to represent the God, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
The Service of Betrothal

The priest starts by blessing the rings and the couple. The reason the rings are placed on the right
hand is because it is the right hand of God that blesses, and to which Christ ascended.
The Ceremony of the Sacrament of Marriage

the Priest joins the right hands together of the Bride and Groom, and they stay joined until the end
of the ceremony to signify the union of the couple.
The Crowning
The bride and groom wear headbands called stefana, the Koumbaro or Koumbara also plays a part
by interchanging the crowns on the couples heads.
These along with the wedding rings, which are worn on the right hand, forth finger and are
exchanged three times.
In traditional Greek Cypriot weddings wreaths were made with olive tree branches because of the
belief that through this wreath God's blessings were transmitted to the couple.
The Common Cup

They drink from the common cup three times, followed by the reading of the Epistle and the Gospel.
The Gospel reading describes the marriage of Cana at Galilee, which was blessed by Christ and
where he performed his first miracle. Converted water into wine.
The Ceremonial Walk

The Priest will lead the couple round the table table 3 times on which are placed the Gospel and the
Cross. The Koumbaro or Koumbara walks behind the married couple holding the Stefana in place.
Often called the dance of Isaiah.
The Removal of the Crowns

The priest blesses the couple. The priest then removes the crowns and asks God to grant the couple
a long, happy life together. He then separates the couples joined hands, reminding them that only
God can separate the couple from one another.
This concludes the ceremony and the Bride and Groom are officially married.
Greek Orthodox Wedding Traditions
A traditional Greek Orthodox marriage includes the celebration of the formal engagement.
On the day of the Greek wedding ceremony, the groom asks the bride's father for his daughter's
hand in marriage. The groom's best man then accompanies the couple to the church, to be married.
The best man, along with the priest, is in charge of the ceremony. He places gold crowns or wreathes
made of orange blossoms on the heads of the bride and groom. These crowns or wreathes are linked
by a silk ribbon. For the rest of their wedding day the newlyweds are honoured as king and queen.

http://www.cyprusbridalbeauty.com/
http://www.cyprusbridalbeauty.com/
http://www.cyprus-wedding.com/wedding_links.htm
http://www.paphostotalweddings.com/home.htm
http://www.cyprusbrides-grooms.com/flowers.htm
http://www.tiaracyprusweddings.com/tiara/weddings/bridal-beauty-tips.html
http://www.worldweddingtraditions.com/locations/east_europe_traditions/cyprus_traditions.html
http://www.heureka.clara.net/sunrise/weddings.htm
http://www.weddingguidecyprus.com/

EGYPT
Located at the North East Africa bordering Palestine (Gaza
Strip) its neighbors are Israel, Libya and Sudan. Cairo being
its capital city it is majority made-up of Eastern Hamitic
stock (Egyptians, Bedouins, and Berbers) 99%. Religion is
mainly Muslim (mostly Sunni) 94% with a small percentage
of Coptic Christian.
The ancient Egyptians were the first civilization to regard

marriage as a legal relationship. Marriage in ancient Egypt
was a religious imposition. The ancient Egyptian laws
organized the marriage relationship and indicated all rights
and duties for the couples. Many of the old marriage
contracts have been found, and they were registered and
signed by three officers. The ancient Egyptian laws gave the
right of divorce to women as well as men, and the wife had great respect and a high degree of
prestige.
The bride wears an ordinary bridal dress and the groom wears a black suit or a tuxedo.
Mona Gad
Egyptian Fashion Designer
3 Al-Ansaar St., Dokki

Giza - Egypt
Contact Phone: +202 33389130

Contact Mobile: +201 22430190
Soheir Masaood
2 Hassan Al Kady St.,
behind Akhenaton Mall,
Al-Haram
Tel: 35852283 - 37805865

Mobile: 010 1967666
website: www.soheirmasaood.net
Email: [email protected]

Mireille Dagher
Salon de Couture
Vega center (HSBC)- Zouk Mkayel

Jounieh Highway ( Sea side )
Lebanon
Ph / Fax : 961 9215521 - 961 3 398333
Website: www.mireilledagher.com
Parade Couture
Nizar Semaan Center, 2nd floor, New
Jdeideh
Beirut, Lebanon
Tel: + 961 1 877 009
Mob: + 961 3 877 008
Website: www.paradeemilekhalaf.com
Website: www.emilekhalaf.com
Tayseer Nada
Tel: 0106013854

Wissam Chammas Haute Couture
Jdeideh
Tel: +961 1 877599
Mobile: +961 3 280384
Website: www.wissamchammas.com
BRIDES MAIDS
The traditions of bridesmaids following a western wedding would apply. Above designers and stores
also offer ranges for bridesmaids.

TUXEDOS
Following websites offers attire for the groom to match their bride following their decision on a
western wedding theme.
English House
Cairo:
45 Lebanon St, Mohandessin.
Telefax: +202 33058636 / 33039885
Port Said:
19 El Gomhoria St. Port Said.
Telefax: +2066 235540
Website: www.english-house.org
While time has altered modern Egyptian weddings, many of the traditions remain. Christian and
Islamic custom now dictates that the official wedding must take place in a church or mosque.
However, the reception after the official wedding remains much the same as in ancient Egypt.
Reception parties differ from place to place in Egypt but they all hold common features including
singing, dancing, a banquet and a lot of guests. Most often the wealth of the family of the bride and
groom dictates the number of guests invited to the reception.
Certain aspects of Egyptian weddings in urban cities are not unlike weddings anywhere in the world.
The bride wears an ordinary bridal dress and the groom wears a black suit or a tuxedo. The
ceremony starts with a car parade. The wedding car (as prestigious as possible) will be decorated
with flowers and ribbons. Cars of both families move together in a noisy parade of continuous
sounding of car horns to a wedding hall most often in a hotel. The honking is to announce that there
is a wedding taking place. When the bride and groom reach the hotel they are received by a “Zaffa”.
The Zaffa is another human parade of belly dancers and drummers surrounding the bride and
groom, singing happy songs.

Egyptian Marriage Customs in Ancient Egypt
Now let's indicate some Egyptian marriage customs in the

past and present and their main effects.
The ancient Egyptians were the first people who stated
marriage laws in the world. They regarded marriage as a civil
and legal relationship. Marriage in ancient Egypt was a
religious imposition. The ancient Egyptian laws organized the
marriage relationship and indicated all rights and duties for
the couples. Many of the old marriage contracts have been
found, and they were registered and signed by three officers.
The ancient Egyptian laws gave the right of divorce to
women as well as men. The wife was respected greatly, and
she had high prestige. The couple had a lot of chances to get
to know each other before the engagement; for example, in
the temples or at the common feasts. There was a custom in
the Egyptian family which allowed the adult daughter to
welcome the guests who came to visit her parents.
The Engagement Party in Ancient Egypt
The ancient Egyptians knew the engagement before getting married, and its customs were similar to
the engagement customs in Egypt's countryside nowadays. It started by the suitor's parents visiting
to his fiancee's house to get her family approval to complete this marriage and reaching an
agreement, which contains two main items: an amount of money, called Mahr, paid by suitor to his
fiancee's family to help them prepare the furniture of their daughter and a valuable jewelry gift,
called Shabka, given by the suitor to his fiancee. The value of this gift depended on the financial and
social levels of the soon-to-be-grooms’ family.
When the two parties completed the agreement, they fixed an appointment for the engagement
party. Most of relatives and friends attended the party in one of the common banquet halls, which
was decorated with several kinds of flowers and lights. The fiancee wore the engagement dress
which was simpler than the wedding dress and its color was blue or pink while the groom put on the
finger of his fiancee a ring, the ancient Egyptians' gift to the old and new world, which was a symbol
of immortality.
In addition, the groom gave his fiancee the valuable jewelry gift agreed on before. During the party,
the attendants ate and drank several kinds of food and drinks.
The Night Before the Wedding

When the house of the new family became ready, the two families fixed an appointment of the
wedding party. The night before wedding day, the relatives, the friends and the neighbors got
together to celebrate the "Henna Night". The women went to the bride's house, while the men went
to the groom's house.
At the bride's house the women danced and sang all night while the bride wore a pink dress made
with silk or cotton fibers, and her hands and feet were bleached with henna. Meanwhile, the men
danced and sang all night at the groom's house, and the groom wore an expensive clean suit.
The Day of the Wedding

The next day, the marriage contract was signed and registered by priest in the temple in the
attendance of the couple and most of their families and friends

The Wedding Party
After sun set, the wedding party started, and the couple wore their best dresses and jewelry. The
bride was transferred to her new house on a horse or a camel with a musical band, and the
attendants sprayed the cortege with green wheat as a symbol of fertility. Several kinds of cooked
meats as well as vegetables and fruit were prepared for the attendants, who danced and sang with
music all night.
The Day After the Wedding

In the morning, the wife's mother and her sisters visited her and gave her some food. The wife's
friends and relatives visited her after seven days from the date of her wedding party, and they
offered gifts and some food, while she gave them some sweets and fruits.
Ancient Egyptian marriage customs are the most effective marriage customs in Egypt's history
although Egypt has been exposed to many civilizations, such as, Greek, Roman and Islam.
Islamic Marriage Customs
The Islamic marriage doctrines are very simple, they are basically two factors. First, the acceptance
of the couple, or their representatives, each other to be husband and wife is the most important
term for marriage. Second, the publicity of the marriage (making it known to the people) is an
essential condition of marriage; however, Islam emphasizes that marriage is the only available way
to satisfaction the biological need between the man and the woman and to make the family;
therefore, the available chances for the couple to get to know each other before the engagement
have become limited, mainly through family visits or at public places.
The engagement and wedding customs in the Middle Ages remained as they were in Ancient Egypt
although these customs are in disagreement with the simplicity of the Islamic spirit.
http://www.touregypt.net/featurestories/weddings.htm
http://www.weddingsinegypt.com/
http://www.eng.umu.se/vw/Culture/African%20weddings.htm
http://islam.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ&sdn=islam&cdn=religion&tm=12&f=00&tt=
2&bt=1&bts=1&st=17&zu=http%3A//zawaj.com/weddingways/egypt_customs.html
http://www.ameinfo.com/65209.html
http://www.saudiaramcoworld.com/issue/199505/family.affairs-weddings.in.egypt.htm

INDONESIA
Jakarta being the capital
city of Indonesia, the
country is divided up by
several ethnic groups of
Javanese, Sundanese,
Madurese and Malays.
Located in the South-
eastern part of Asia, 88%
of the population is
Muslim by faith with a
very small percentage of
Protestant, Roman
Catholic, Hindu and
Buddhist faiths.
The island of Java today is sliced down into several provinces. The provinces themselves do not
matter in daily lives however the cultural traditions and customs to each of the province are
important in special occasions like weddings. The main three provinces are the West, East and
Central Java however there are also individual customary traditions belonging to the natives in areas
of Jakarta.
Traditional wedding dresses of Central Java

are black (see image right).
However in West Java, native people who

are called Sundanese are of the tradition to
have their brides marry in a white
traditional dress called a “kebaya” (see
image left) whereas in East Java it is
customary to see brides marry in black.
There are other colours that are acceptable
such as red, green or blue.
BRIDES MAIDS
everyone else almost anything goes. What one should wear to a wedding depends on the time of
day and where the reception is held. For men a good quality long-sleeved batik shirt is appropriate,
but a suit would be more correct for an evening wedding held in a 5-star hotel. For ladies a smart
casual outfit is fine for daytime but you should get more dressed up in the evening. Indonesian ladies
can be seen wearing their regional outfits in a bright array of colours, complete with lots of gold
jewellery.

TUXEDOS
Grooms attire is also called a “beskap” and is

usually black in colour (see image left.
Though the white wedding dress as per the western theme style is not
commonly sought out there are designers from Indonesia that incoporate
western themes into their own designs of tradiotional nature. Making their
pieces distint and unique and acceptable for the customs and sensitive to
traditions.
http://prestigeinar.com/ (see image left)

is by a designer named Prestige by Inar.
http://www.brideandgroom.co.id/vendors/Rusli/2006 - designer Rusly

Tjohnardi
Venisee Couture Bridal Tracy Bridal House
Jl. Pluit Murni Raya No. 14A Taman Duta Mas

Jakarta Utara 14450 Blok A7/23-24
Ph : (021) 661 9049 Jelambar
Website : www.venisee.com Jakarta Barat 11460
Phone: 021 567 8586,
5678961, 564 7413
LaMariée Bridal
Megamal Pluit Lt.3
Kemang Icon Building
2nd Floor Unit # 5 Mega Glodok 113-116
Jl. Kemang Raya #1 Phone : 021 66602181, 666 03143
Jakarta Selatan 666 03155
Ph : +6221 718 3839 Fax: 021 666 02981
Website : www.lamarieebridal.com Website : www.tracywedding.com

Yohannes Bridal
Gallery Pusat
Jl. Muara Karang E IV
Timur no.50
Jakarta 14450
Phone : (021) 661 0977
Fax : (021) 668 0336
Mall Taman Anggrek

Mal Taman Anggrek UG Level
U.16 C
Jakarta
Phone : (021) 563 9389
Fax : (021) 563 9367
Website : www.yohannesbridal.com
For more designers and bridal stores located in Indonesia please see this website that
gives meticulous detail on every area in the wedding process an d has a large directory of
retail bridal stores as well as wedding photographers who have wedding dresses for rental.
http://www.weddingindonesia.com/
Wedding Reception Celebration
There is often an elaborate processional into the reception site, which consists of a long chain of
flowers. Professional dancers perform traditional Indonesian dances, while family and guests await
the arrival of the newlyweds.
It is customary for the traditional Indonesian bride and groom to greet each guest in a long receiving
line, before the reception festivities can begin.
(quoted from http://www.indonesialogue.com/destinations/wedding-rituals.html)
With various ethnic groups in the Indonesian archipelago, there are manifold cultural differences,
including in wedding ceremonies. They have their own uniqueness, respectively revealing the
philosophy of marriage as an important part of human life.
In a traditional Sundanese wedding ritual, one day prior to the wedding, the groom’s family visits the
bride’s family to become fully acquainted with the prospective daughter-in-law. This event is called
ngeuyeuk seureuh.
Beforehand, the bride-to-be has a siraman (bridal shower). Her parents and relatives shower her
with petal-filled water. The number of flowers used is usually seven. Then, someone removes the
hairs from her face and nape.
In ngeuyeuk seureuh, various things are used as symbols to welcome guests. One example is a
container filled with betel leaves. The groom and bride-to-be are asked to chew the leaf mixed with
gambier, lime and areca nut.

On the day before the marriage vows are exchanged, the groom wears Sundanese traditional
wedding attire and his family are greeted with a pencak silat dance performed by young women
dancers.
Having officially become husband and wife, they then perform nincak endog. In this ceremony the
husband steps on an egg, which the wife then wipes from his foot as a symbol of her loyalty to her
husband.
http://users.skynet.be/dvran/index.html
http://www.indoindians.com/living/wedding.htm
http://www.indonesialogue.com/destinations/wedding-rituals.html
http://www.pak-shadi.com/wedding_customs/indonesian_wedding_traditions.htm
http://www.muslimrishtey.com/muslim_wedding.php
http://www.weddingindonesia.com/
http://www.geocities.com/omimachifuri/clothes.htm

JAPAN
Located at Eastern Asia as an island chained between the
North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan/East Sea. Its
capital city is Tokyo with 99% of their ethnic make-up to be
Japanese practising the Shinto, Buddhist faith with a small
minority of the Christian faith.
The all-white silk wedding kimono dates back to the Edo era
(1700-1900) and the traditions of the brides of the samurai.
White symbolizes both a new beginning and an end,
because the bride "dies" as her father's daughter and is
reborn a member of her husband's family.
Designer Bridal websites with branches in Japan
A
ngel's Dream
1-9-26 Dai-Machi Hachioji; Shi
Tokyo, Japan 19309
☎ (631) 581-3330
Fax: (631) 581-4848
http://www.eugeniacouture.com/
http://www.alfredsungbridals.com
http://www.yumikatsura.com/
Yumi Katsura International Co., Ltd Head Office (The main store)
1-25-3 Minami Aoyama Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0062Tel: 03-3403-7831 * Fax: 03-3403-9472
Yumi Katsura Paris MaihamaChiba Tokyo Bay Hotel Tokyu 3rd1-7 Maihama Urayasu, Chiba 279-
0031Tel: 047-350-1112 * Fax: 047-350-0075
Osaka Epson Osaka Bldg. 1st Fl.3-5-1 Bakuro-cho Cyuo-ku, Osaka 541-0059
Tel: 06-6245-1120 * Fax: 06-6282-4122

Osaka Rihga Royal Shop Osaka Rihga Royal Hotel B1 Fl5-3-68 Nakanoshima Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0005
Tel: 06-4803-6788 * Fax: 06-4803-6789
Isetan Company Limited

Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan • TEL 03-3352-1111
• Amsale Collection • Bridesmaids Collection
Princess Garden Yokohama Tokiwa Corporation

6-10, Kotobukicho 2-chome, Naka-ku, 3-20-2, Shimosuke-cho, Tokushima-city,
Yokohama 231-0026, Japan Tokushima 770-0805, Japan
045-681-3152 088-622-0011
www.morino.co.jp www.bctokiwa.co.jp
Wedding Salon Inoue Bridal House Kotobuki

1-8-4, Motomachidori, Kobe, 1-1-8,Honmachi, Kanazawa-city,
Hyogo 650-0022, Japan Ishikawa 920-0853, Japan
078-392-2039 076-263-8000
www.ws-i.jp www.kotobuki-net.jp
Isetan Tokyo Japan 03-

3352-1111
http://www.christosbrid
al.net/
http://www.jessicamcclintock.com/
(available at the following branches)
DRESS STUDIO ONE SHIMIZU-BLDG 2F

NAOBELLE
033-879-8601 2-38 SENJU ADACHI-KU COLLECTION
TOKYO, JAPAN, 120- 135-370-1499 STE,202. SUGINAMI-KU

0034
TOKYO, 168-0071,
DRESS ROIRE KEIKO HIGASIBORI JAPAN
074-271-4418 3-3-6 UKYO TRIAD INC. 2-17-14 MIZONOKUCHI
NARASHI NARAKEN, TAKATSU-KU,

044-850-9510
JAPAN KAWASAKI
2-10-13 TAKAIDONISHI TOKYO, 213-0001,

JAPAN

BRIDES MAIDS
Same rules apply if wedding is in western format. Above websites and designers offer gowns and
dresses to match with the brides wedding gown.
TUXEDOS
See above designers who also offer a range of suits catered to the Groom to commemorate his
special day.
Prices are specific and individual mirroring the individuality of the couple involved.
(article by Shu Shu Costa from the feature entitled: "Rituals of Bliss)
In ancient Japanese myth, all things were created by the marriage of the male and female gods,
Izanagi and Izanami--Japan's Adam and Eve. According to legend, these two gods came down to
primeval earth from the heavens on a rainbow bridge. Out of their union came the islands of Japan,
the sun, the moon, the mountains, the trees and the wind.
The Engagement
The engagement is sealed by a ceremony called the yunio. The highlight of this ceremony is the
giving of symbolic gifts wrapped in ornate rice paper. The gifts include: dried cuttlefish for its phallic
shape; kelp or konbu because the character can be written to mean "child-bearing woman"; a long,
linen thread to symbolize the gray hair of old age; and a folded fan which spreads out to show future
wealth and growth in numbers.
The Wedding Outfits
The all-white silk wedding kimono dates back to the Edo era (1700-1900) and the traditions of the
brides of the samurai. White symbolizes both a new beginning and an end, because the bride "dies"
as her father's daughter and is reborn a member of her husband's family. The bride traditionally
wears her hair up, fastened by tortoise-shell combs. A white cloth and veil cover her head, and her
face is painted creamy white. The bride changes several times, once to an ornate gold, silver and red
robe embroidered with auspicious symbols such as cranes and flowers, and again to a deep-colored,
highly patterned kimono usually reserved for young, unmarried women. This is the last time she will
be able to wear this kimono. Irises are a beautiful choice for the Japanese American bride; the colour
purple is the color of love in Japan. The groom wears a black silk kimono with his family crest in
white, in five different places. Under this kimono is a striped, pleated skirt, or hakama. He carries a
white folded fan and wears white sandals. Many Japanese Americans still treasure kimonos handed
down through the generations. Renting an outfit is quite expensive: One New York store charges
upwards of $1,600, which includes the services of a professional to dress you.
The Ceremony
The traditional Shinto ceremony honours the kami, the spirits inherent in the natural world. After a
purification ceremony using a special branch called the harai-gushi, the priest calls to the gods to
bless the couple. The ceremony ends with a ritual sharing of sake from three flat cups stacked on
top of one another. Popularly called san-san-kudo, this ritual can be performed any number of
ways, depending on your family's custom. The groom may lead, taking three sips from the first cup,
followed by the bride, who also takes three sips from the first cup. Then they move on to the second

and third cups. The sake is then offered to the couple's families. In the U.S., Japanese Americans
seeking a traditional ceremony turn to the country's Buddhist traditions. One highlight of the
ceremony is the rosary, or o juju, which has 21 beads of two different colors. Eighteen beads
represent the couple, two represent each family and one represents the Buddha. Joined on one
string, the beads symbolize the joining of the families. The san-san-kudo, more cultural than
religious, is also performed at the Buddhist ceremony.
The Food
Each dish in the Japanese wedding banquet is a symbolic wish--for happiness, prosperity, long life or
many children. For example, konbu is served because the word sounds like the last half of the word
for joy, yorokobu. Fish can be served with the tail and head forced up from the plate forming a
circle, the symbol of eternity. Clams are served with both shells together, the two halves symbolizing
the couple. Lobster is often served for its deep red colour, the colour of luck. The number of courses
never equals a multiple of four, since the word for "four," shi, sounds like the word for death. For
dessert, a Japanese bride might choose to serve komochi manjyu, which is made of gummy,
sweetened rice with fillings inside.
http://www.weddingsatwork.com/culture_customs_japanese.shtml
http://www.worldweddingtraditions.com/locations/asian_traditions/japanese_traditions.html
http://www.worldlyweddings.com/japanese-traditions-a/128.htm
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/733009/a_primer_on_japanese_wedding_traditions.ht
ml?cat=7
http://weddings.about.com/cs/weddingguests/a/GuestReligion.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_law_in_Japan
http://glue.yahoo.com/page/japanese+marriage

LAOS
Officially titled as the Lao People's Democratic Republic,
is a landlocked country in southeast Asia, bordered by
Burma (Myanmar) and China to the northwest, Vietnam
to the east, Cambodia to the south, and Thailand to the
west. It is ethnically made-up of Lao 55%, Khmou 11%,
Hmong 8% and Buddhism is practised by 67% of Laos.
In Laos the length of the festivities surrounding a

wedding are determined by the financial means of the
families of the bride and groom. In general, Lao
weddings last about a day and a half. It is believed in a
traditional Lao marriage ceremony that customs and
traditions must be adhered to ensure a happy and long
lasting marriage. Also, by having a traditional ceremony,
Lao newlyweds demonstrate their respect for and interest in preserving their cultural heritage.
The traditional wedding costumes in Laos for both the groom

and the bride are made of silk. The bridal costume is made of
beautiful colours and sophisticated patterns and usually hand-
weaved. The brides costume consists of a silk top, a ceremonial
sash, and “sinh” (traditional skirt/tubular skirt) pictured on the
left & right.
The colour of the costumes of the groom and the bride should
match to present unity and beauty representing the unique
fabric which is of Lao silk.
The bride’s hairstyle is gathered into a high, clean and tight bun “kao phome” and decorated with
gold chains and jewellery. The brides’ hair takes about two hours to style as no loose strands are
allowed.
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids for a Laos wedding. Female guests would typically
wear a sarong with vibrant colours to keep the enthusiasm and joy of the wedding.
TUXEDOS
The groom has two options for his outfit, the traditional sarong that matches the brides’ sinh or a
tuxedo. The groom oftentimes wears white or crème or light gold silk top to match with the silky
sheet which is folded into traditional pants style. However as Laos is a country that is dedicated in
keeping their traditions preserved and alive, the traditional costumes are more favourable to Laos
weddings.

The acceptance and incorporation of western themed weddings has not become as a popular trend
than other Asian countries. There are no specific designers for bridal wear as the traditional wedding
costume is made by Lao silk which can be purchased locally.
(partially quoted from http://www.thememes.com/lao_wedding_customs.php)
A traditional Lao wedding is usually held at the brides residence in the afternoon. The time doesn't
really matter but usually around 4pm so that the evening meal can be served to guests when the
one hour official ceremony is finished.
The groom, his friends and relatives march together to the brides residence accompanied by the
sound of banging drums and other traditional Lao instruments such as the khaen. If the groom lives
far from the brides residence, then he and the rest of his connection would drive closer about 50
metres to 100 metres away from the brides residence then they commence their walk from there,
playing musical instruments and chanting along the way, everybody laughing, cheering and smiling in
the most joyous way. A Lao wedding is supposed to be a really fun and happy day.
The groom and bride can see each other before the official wedding ceremony begins. The both of
them can do anything or even stay together at the brides residence to help with the wedding
preparation but when it's time for the wedding to begin, the groom needs to get dressed in
traditional clothing then go out with his friends and relatives and start the walk to her place.
When the groom and his party arrives at the brides house, they will be met by the bride's relatives
where bargaining and questioning will take place before admittance. The brides relatives will ask the
grooms relatives some customary questions such as: What's your name? Where did you come from?
What did you bring with you? etc.
During this process the groom doesn't do any of the talking, only the elder relatives talk to each
other in a friendly and polite way then the groom has to give some money to brides relatives which
is like an entry fee but it doesn't have to be alot. This would already be prepared for the groom by
his relatives, all he has to do is hand it to the brides relatives. If the brides relatives are satisfied with
the small money gift (100% of the time they will be satisfied), then the groom must wash his feet
before he and his party can enter the house. Washing feet is an exceptionally good idea when
marrying the likes of TR.
Inside the house, the bride and groom sit along side each other with their parents also near by and
the "soo kuan" ceremony starts. This involves handing the gift to the brides parents, the couple
praying for both parents, the tying of the white strings on wrists to unite the couple and the master
of the ceremony "mor phone" talking and explaining the meaning of the marriage to everyone. The
"soo kuan" ceremony goes for about an hour and other guests will be waiting outside drinking and
chatting while all this is going on inside.
After the "soo kuan" ceremony is over then the real party begins. Everyone will be drinking, dancing,
listening to live bands, eating dinner etc. Some people might not want to do this at home and they
prefer to invite guests to eat at a restaurant or go to a hall to party in the evening.
Another important thing you should know is that a Lao wedding ceremony does not involve any
Buddhist monks like in other Buddhist traditional weddings from other countries. In Lao custom,
monks are invited to pray at a "duck baht" ceremony which can be held before or after the wedding

day, but monks are not required to be present on the wedding day because a Lao wedding ceremony
has got nothing to do with religion.
A Lao wedding is officiated by an old man from the village, who is the master of the ceremony.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laos
http://www.geocities.com/ng21smile/laowedding.html
http://www.thememes.com/lao_wedding_customs.php
http://www.laoweddings.com/lw_wedding.html

MALAYSIA
Located in the Southeastern part
of Asia. It shares borders with
Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore
and Brunei. Kuala Lumpur is the
capital city to this country that is
ethnically made-up of Malay
50.4%, Chinese 23.7% and
Indian 7.1%. This means that the
Muslim, Buddhist, Christian &
Hindu religion is practiced and
believed by Malays.
In respect of weddings, the needs and desires for traditions and customs depend on the practicing
faith of the couple and/or if they choose to incorporate the western theme into their wedding
ceremonies. Most often couples will have a dress change into the white wedding gown and black
tuxedo for photos.
The white wedding dress has become the popular choice for modern day weddings and even though
couples hold their wedding in their countries traditions, they will still
incorporate the white wedding dress and black tuxedo for photographs.
(see below for designers and website information)
As Malaysia is a mixture of Malaysian, Chinese and Indian nationalities,

the traditions from the countries are exercised in special occasions and
especially for marriages.
A traditional Malay bride wears a dress called “baju kebaya”, and if it is

detailed with embroidery, called a “baju kurung” (see image left).
This dress is acceptable to those belonging to the Muslim faith.
A traditional Indian bride wears a wedding dress called a “Sari” or “Lehenga” are traditionally in
colors and shades of Red or Pink. The bride (Hindu or Muslim) always wears red clothes, never white
because white symbolizes widowhood in Indian culture. In Southern and Eastern states the bride
usually wears a red Sari, but in northern and central states the preferred garment is a decorated
skirt-blouse and veil. Traditional Indian brides wear pink and red saris on their wedding day,
adorning themselves extravagantly with as much jewelry as possible.
A traditional Chinese bride wears a wedding gown

called “Kwa” and is important that it is in the color
red. Embroidery work is embedded in to the Kwa and
pricing depends on the type of thread used for the
embroidery work (see image right).

“Keith Kee Couture was established in year 2001 and has now
branches in Penang and Klang Valley. With perseverance, hard
work and brilliant gown designs, coupled with word-of-mouth
recommendations by satisfied customers and promotions in
various bridal shows and wedding magazines, Keith Kee Couture
has emerged as one of the key players in the bridal industry in
Malaysia.”
Keith Kee Couture

F-G-42A, Blk F, Jalan PJU1/45
Aman Suria, Damansara
47301 Petaling Jaya
Selangor D. E. Malaysia
Tel: +603-7804 9829
Fax: +603-7804 9394
http://www.keithkee.com/
Carven Ong Couture

Prestige Flr, Lot 10 Shopping Centre
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: +603-2142 6232
Fax: +603-2142 7232
http://www.carvenong.com.my/
“Carven Ong signature creations are prominent for their use of vibrant colours and
feminine cuts that enhance your sexy curves. His creations, always spot-on when it
comes to the latest in couture, are chic and wearable a dream come true for the
fashionable, modern bride. Choose from Carven Ong’s latest couture collection or
meet with the talented and charming designer to create your dream wedding
gown.
Inspiration for hid stunning gowns is drawn from many elements such from the
ancient Japanese arts and culture, combined with sleek, modern lines. Creating the
perfect blend of modern feminine chic has made him one of the most sought after
wedding dress designers.”
http://www.armadale.com.my/

“Pretty In White offers an exceptional service in custom-made gowns made of smooth satins, pretty
laces, willowy chiffons and glittering beadings according to your wishes and within your budget.
They also have a selection of customized veils and shoes. A variety of dresses for rental and their
ready-to-wear gowns are as beautiful as their custom-made
ones.
Pretty In White
21-3, Jalan 26/70A
Desa Sri Hartamas
50480 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel : +603 2300 2236
“FOUR options of either buying, renting, selling-back or custom

make, At Pretty In White, you can be assured of getting that
ONE perfect wedding gown.”
“A product of the Hong Kong Institute of

Fashion Design, the “Eric Choong Haute
Couture” label was conceived in 1990 upon
his return to Kuala Lumpur and the setting
up of his first atelier. Based on Eric’s firm and
guiding philosophy that “fine style never
goes out of fashion”, the label quickly
became known for its modern &
sophisticated approach to creations gestated
from ideas endemic to Malaysian culture.
Praises were quickly earned from the fashion elite for the label’s unique fabric combinations,
exquisite cut, signature intricate detailing and modern interpretation of classic designs.”
More brands from Eric Choong Kuala Eric Choong Kuala Lumpur
Lumpur… 61-1 & 63-1, Jalan Telawi 3
Eric Choong Haute Couture Bangsar Baru
Eric Choong Brides 59100 Kuala Lumpur
Eric Choong Pret a porter Malaysia
Eric Choong Flowers
Eric Choong Homme http://www.ericchoong.com/
Divine Couture Malaysia

Renaissance Hotel Lobby
Corner of Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang
50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Phone: 03 2161 2886
http://www.divinecouture.com/

Radzuan Radziwill
Exotic, sexy and vibrant. Radzuan Radziwill
Borrowing elements City Point
form the Malay tradition and Daya Bumi Complex
culture, this rate Kuala Lumpur
talent creates a successful Malaysia
“marriage” of modern and traditional in his Tel: +603-2698 6402
kebaya pengantin. Fax: +603-2694 3129
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Traditional dressing according to the nation being
followed in tradition usually applies.
TUXEDOS
Traditional Malay groom would wear a “Baju Melayu” (see image right)
which is similar to a shirt however in length of a dress. The length of the
shirt dress of the Baju Melayu is about the length of the person’s arm,
and it is very loose fitting, widening downwards.
In keeping with Indian tradition, an Indian groom would wear the

traditional Indian “Sherwani” or “dhoti” or Western suit.
Chinese tradition the groom wears a garment called “Da Gua” with a
front-closing tunic.
Today most grooms opt for the western style of wearing a tuxedo or suit for their wedding.
Malaysia is a bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and religious where Malays, Chinese, Indians
and many other people live together in peace and harmony. The largest ethnic groups in Malaysia
are the Malays, Chinese and Indians. In Sabah and Sarawak, there are myriad of indigenous ethic
groups with their own unique culture and heritage.
A traditional Malay wedding ceremony spreads over two days, beginning with the akad nikah
ceremony. The groom signs the marriage contract and agrees to provide the bride with a mas
kahwin(dowry). After that, their hands are dyed with henna during the berinai besar ceremony. The
bride's hair is also trimmed or her eyebrows shaped by a beautician known as the mak
andam.them.
TRADITIONAL INDIAN WEDDING
The couple getting married must not see each other for a month. Nowadays young couples cannot
be apart each other so for both mums, even to keep them a week apart is an task.
"Thali ceremony " or Thali Padia is performed a few days before the wedding. A month or two
before the wedding, the groom's parents would go the family's goldsmith to have the "Thali
prepared". The melting of gold to make the "Thali" is an important ritual for the traditional Indians.
It is symbolic for the "Thali" to be prepare by the family goldsmith as each family has their own
design for the Thali (sacred pendant)to be made.

“Three Nalangu ceremony”
Nalangus are real Indian traditional wedding rituals for mothers, aunts to performed as a symbol of
how much she is loved. Giving her over to a new family, gently advising her of her life beginning as a
married woman, with responsibilities.
TRADITIONAL CHINESE WEDDING
The following small ceremonies take place leading up to the wedding itself and traditions that
Chinese people follow when celebrating a marriage.
A small, informal party is celebrated at the groom’s family house to celebrate the groom’s last day as
a bachelor. This bears similarities to the western theme of a bachelor party.
Equally the bride holds a small, informal party of her own usually in the form of a dinner with
relatives and close friends.
Depending on how traditional the family are, a small ceremony is held at the grooms house which is
done in front of the families house altar to pray and give respect to the gods and confirm ties with
families.
Part of the tradition requires friends and relatives to make the bride difficult to wed. This was seen
as a blessing for the longevity of the marriage. The groom is required to perform quite a few tasks
before the women relatives were convinced he was worth to wed his bride. After the groom has
been deemed worthy of wedding the bride, they then turn to confirm ties in front of their altar and
pay respects to the gods and to their ancestors.
The wedding dinner
A Chinese wedding is usually calculated in tables. A table at a wedding dinner is usually shared by 8-
10 people. So, by having 160 tables available, more than 1000 people is usually expected. All guests
are required to bring a gift which to the Chinese is in a form of a red envelope containing monies.
The value of the monies is decided by the guest, usually it is in the mindset of how much the guest
values the couple. However it also depends on the position of the guest in respect to the couple.
Close relatives and close friends give more than those who are at more distance. When the couple
and both parents have sat down, the dinner starts.
http://www.syokkahwin.com
http://weddings-infoguide.com
http://weddings-infoguide.com/wedding-world
http://www.hilalplaza.com/malaysia-wedding-customs.html
http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2007/03/03-05-07tdc/03-05-07dnews-03.asp
http://www.flickr.com/photos/26133907@N00/13568327/
http://efabric.biz/blog/?tag=costumes
http://d.scribd.com/docs/e8tblf66n4m9wjehjdd.txt

NEPAL
Nepal is a landlocked nation in South
Asia. It is bordered to the north by
the People's Republic of China, and to
the south, east, and west by India.
Kathmandu, the nation's capital, is its
largest city. Although Hinduism is
practiced by a majority of the
population, the nation also has a
strong Buddhist tradition, as the
birthplace of Siddharta Gautama.
The wedding customs of Hindu and

Buddhist are most popular among marriage traditions and ceremonies of various ethnic groups and
castes of Nepal. The majority of the population in Nepal is Hindu and Buddhist. Both of them deeply
believe in traditional marriages as it is supposed to last a life time.
“Daura-Suruwal” typically termed as 'Labeda-Suruwal' is the traditional Nepali dress. However due
to the religious customs and beliefs that run deep within Nepal, traditional wedding dress worn
during the wedding is in keeping with the tradition according to their faith. A Nepalese bride dresses
in the bridal color of red and is bejeweled with
gold and precious gems.
In respect to the traditional bridal dress for a

Hindu Nepali wedding it is in keeping with the
custom for the bride to dress in a red sari (saree).
This sari is made up of red and golden thread and
quite heavy in weight from the adornments (see
image
left).
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Traditional

dressing according to the nation being followed in tradition
usually applies and
should be
matching in color and theme (see image above and left).
TUXEDOS
The grooms come wearing cultural “dhoti kurta”. They also

put on the traditional headwear known as the Pag. The
groom wears red colored pag, whereas other yellow or
white pag (see image above).

(partially quoted from http://www.gotonepal.com/marriage.php)
Marriage ceremonies in Nepal are supposed to take place only at a special time of the year.
Generally in Nepal wedding ceremonies are done in mid January to mid-March, mid-April to mid-
June and mid-November to mid-December.
A Nepalese bride dresses in the bridal color of red and is bejeweled with gold and precious gems.
Traditionally, the bride and groom are escorted to the marriage venue. In a village the couple reach
the marriage venue on horses or baskets, while in a city marriage the couple arrive at the venue in a
decorated car. Music is an essential part of marriages. The traditional music, Pachai Baja and folk
songs still popular among people are played as the Nepali people believe that playing traditional
music strengthens the nuptial knot and pleases God.
“Traditional Hindu Marriages “ - Traditional Hindu wedding ceremonies in Nepal are a major
celebration which takes place only on certain months of the year i.e from mid January to mid-
March, mid-April to mid-June and mid-November to mid-December. The notable features of such
weddings are that the ceremony is held in the open under a canopy known as mandap with a sacred
fire in the center and the bride and bridegroom walk around it seven times. The ceremony is carried
out by the priest. The groom's party is supposed to arrive at the wedding venue in a procession, so
it's good to have a convenient assembly location nearby.
“Traditional Buddhist Marriages” - These marriages also have unique features. Buddhist weddings in
Nepal are sober affairs, with focus on marriage rituals The weddings are usually a big affair,
sometimes whole villages are invited along with numerous extended families
Buddhist marriages are performed at monastery. Traditional dress is worn by both bride and groom,
and Lama (Monk) performs the customary puja (worship) to solemnize the wedding. The butter
lamps are lit at the monastery during wedding day which lends a magical touch to the ceremony.
Traditional music infuses a soothing and mystical ambience to the ceremony.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal
http://www.nepalhomepage.com/firstpage/
http://www.nepalhomepage.com/dir/society/
http://www.mithilaonline.com/
http://the-voyagers.tripod.com/Culture.htm
http://www.weddingnepal.com/development/member/index.php?page=pageContents&pageId=7
http://www.gotonepal.com/marriage.php
http://www.visitnepal.com/
http://www.nepalguides.com/Traditional_Wedding.html
http://www.boloji.com/society/107.htm
http://www.nepaltraveladviser.com/nepal/new_offers/destination_weddings_nepali_style.php
IMAGES TAKEN FROM : http://www.flickr.com/photos/jk10976/2428878080/
http://nepal.saarctourism.org/nepal-culture.html

NORTH KOREA
Its official name is Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and
Pyongyang being its capital city. Sharing its borders with China,
South Korea and Russia; North Korea is not as economically
stable as its neighbor.
For over 2,000 years, the traditional Korean costume, the

Hanbok, has been worn by men, women and children. Originally,
the Hanbok was made out of white cotton, silk or a scratchy
coarse fabric called hemp. Today Koreans wear Hanboks in many
colors and types of fabrics.
Since Hanbok has only one pattern, the balance between the skirt
and jacket, the placement of inner and outer lapels, and the ribbon on the front of jacket, as well as
the location and length of the jacket ties, illustrate the beauty of symmetry.
The length of the hanbok jacket goes up and down according to the whims of fashion. In the past,
women learned how to make hanbok from their mother or grandmother before they married, and
experience and training enabled them to make dresses at home. These days, most dresses are made
by professionals who have learned their skills under designers or at institutions.
(partially quoted from http://www.dprk-tour.com/sub03/04.php)
White was the basic color most widely used by common people. It symbolized a modest and pure
spirit. In the past, Korea was once called the nation of the white-dressed. Although it is true that
Koreans preferred white to other colors, the strict social class system forced commoners to wear the
white color as casual daily clothes. Only royal and nobility wore color dresses with and gold foils.
The norigae is a hanbok decoration which has been worn by all classes of Korean women for
centuries. It is tied to the skirt or the ribbon on the jacket. The knot on the top is called the Maedup.
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids.
TUXEDOS
A jacket (chigori) and trousers (paji) and an overcoat (turumagi) are worn. The jacket has loose
sleeves, the trousers are roomy and tied with straps at the ankles. A vest may be worn over the shirt.
A black hat (moja) could be worn.
(for details on the above attire – refer to South Korea – as majority North Koreans who are in a
position to spend money on this occasion are often known to hold their ceremonies in South Korea’s
capital city, Seoul)
North Korea is not as accepting and open as South Korea and as majority of the population are in a
poor economic state most North Koreans wear traditional Korean costumes or even regular casual

clothes for their ceremonies. Information regarding the lifestyle and understanding of the North
Korean people has also been kept amongst the country so the general old Korean traditions would
apply unless specific requests for a western themed wedding. It would be highly advisable not to
market any retail stores of western themes in North Korea due to its delicate and political state.
OCCASIONS& TRADITIONS
(quoted from http://www.dailynk.com/english/read.php?cataId=nk01300&num=1836) the below

article is from a North Korean media source however it should not be considered as a reliable source
only one that gives an understanding of the type of North Korean traditional weddings that differ
from South Koreans)
As spring is ripe, so are engaged couples. Not only in South Korea but also in the North, spring is a
season of marriage. Yet ceremonies differ.
In North Korea, wedding ceremonies takes place in both houses of the bride and the bridegroom.
Occasionally, rich couples rent a ceremony hall, common practice in Seoul.
In South Korea, all the guests come to wish the newly-weds a bright future. Undoubtedly, formally
dressed. However, most North Koreans visit wedding ceremonies wearing regular dress.
The biggest difference is shoes. In both Koreas, it is customary to take off shoes before entering
house and since wedding ceremonies in North Korea occur inside someone’s house, it is possible to
lose ones shoes. Especially if well-wishers get drunk after the party or simply that too many visitors
come to celebrate in a crowded house, shoes are often lost or as they say 'confused' in the case the
shoes are of good quality.
So North Koreans do not wear nice shoes when visiting a wedding ceremony. Even slippers are worn.
This habit has trailed down to South Korea, for those who defected and came to Seoul. At Hanawon,
an education facility for new-defectors into South Korea, instructors teach defectors to wear smart
dress attire and formal shoes while attending wedding ceremonies.
An instructor who taught me at Hanawon told his personal story. When he was invited to a
defector’s wedding ceremony, he saw several visitors wearing slippers, all of them were fellow
defectors. When asked why, they answered that it was their habit from North Korea.
Such minor mistakes might cause others who do not understand North Korean customary habits
unpleasant or even nervous. Thus, the instructor asked us, the defectors, to always dress formally at
special ceremonies.
http://www.weddingdetails.com/lore/korean.cfm
http://www.korea4expats.com/article-weddings.html
http://www.weddingdialogues.com/Spring_Featured_Wedding_Custom.html
http://www.lifeinkorea.com/culture/marriage/marriage.cfm?xURL=meaning
http://www.dailynk.com/english/read.php?cataId=nk01300&num=1836
(Please note that the above sources & references are not an accurate source for North Korea but for
a better understanding of Korea as a whole)

PAKISTAN
Located in southern Asia, Pakistan’s capital city is Islamabad
and borders Afghanistan, China, India and Iran. Over 97% of
the population is Muslim in faith with a minority in the
Hindu & Sikh religion.
Wedding dresses called “Sari” or “Lehenga” are traditionally

in colors and shades of Red.
The bride always wears red clothes, never white because

white symbolizes widowhood in Indian culture.
Traditionally, a typical wedding includes four different

ceremonies on different days. In each, the bride wears
something different, providing a wide array of Pakistani wedding dresses for guests to admire.
are desired. The bridal sari can make the bride look out of the world and make all the heads turn of
all the spectators. A bridal sari can make all the others girls go green with envy and can stun the
bride groom completely.
Bridal saris in Pakistan are mostly bright colored. This bright color gives out a sense of happiness and
joy. The most preferred colors being green, red, maroon, magenta, pink, dark blue, orange and gold.
The choice of the color depends on the bride. Brides can go for something dark like violet, to
something universal like gold.
The work on the sari also depends on many factors. The first factor that is kept in mind is the budget.
If money is not an issue the next point which is considered are the height and weight of the bride
and the weight of the bridal sari.
Heavy bridal sari will have a lot of zari work and embroidery. Embroidery can be handmade
embroidery or even ready made embroidery. A lot of stones can be stuck on the saris to make them
brighter and give them that shiny look. The embroidery can be done heavily on the pallu and a little
lesser on the insides. Bridal saris are generally heavy and so you will find most of the saris have
embroidery all over the sari.
You can get Indian and Pakistani wedding dresses tailored from some expert tailors, or you can buy
“Ready To Wear” Indian and Pakistani wedding dresses from some fine Indian wedding dress stores
and Pakistani wedding dress stores.
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Traditional saris are usually worn. Above information
relates to the purchasing of brides maids saris as well.
TUXEDOS
The groom may wear traditional “Shalwar Kameez” or Western suit. Salwar Kameez are usually
tailored using different types of fabrics. Most common fabrics used to tailor Salwar Kameez include
cotton, chiffon, silk, banarsi fabrics. Cotton is a soft breathable textile used for daily clothing. It is
usually used for the salwar kameez that are meant for general daily use or worn in routine life.

Under the influence of west most of the Indian and Pakistan males have started wearing western
style suits as their wedding dresses. Three-piece suits and western style suits are pretty popular
grooms’ wedding dresses in India and Pakistan. Usually Silk or superior quality textile is used to tailor
Indian grooms’ wedding dresses.
 http://www.bargello.com/
 http://www.indusfashions.com/
 http://www.ipaki.com/pakistani_wedding_dress/pakistani_wedding_dress.htm
 http://www.RajasthaniStore.com
 http://www.naseebcouture.com/
 http://www.bombaydesign.com/
Pakistanis who are open minded and are favorable to having a modern wedding. Most bridal gowns
wedding gown. There are no specific designers in bridal dressing being offered to Pakistan and more
often white wedding gowns of design nature are purchased overseas or via the Internet (see
websites above).
Due to Pakistani’s majority religion being Muslim, it would be advisable to enter this market with
conservative styles of western theme with the traditional lehengas and sherwanis incorporating both
the western design with local traditions. However Pakistani men are more accepting in wearing
tuxedos to occasions and weddings so a good entry point would be grooms wear.
changes the bride would make throughout the wedding ceremony. Some Pakistanis have
incorporated a western theme into their wedding reception or for photography.
“Four Day Wedding Ritual of Pakistan” - Traditional Pakistani marriage celebrations lasts for up
to four days.
Mehndi is a ceremony that takes place one or two days before the main wedding. The families of the
bride and groom bring dessert-themed foods and henna for the opposing side, and the betrothed
couple celebrates separately, each with friends and family.
The wedding dress for this day will typically be either a green dress or one with yellow and orange
fabrics. Makeup is very simple, and this dress is beautiful, yet not over the top.
Dolki - This ceremony includes singing traditional Pakistani wedding songs and celebrating with
percussion instruments. Here, a Pakistani bride will almost always wear a traditional yellow outfit.

This is complimented with floral henna designs, sometimes including the groom’s name worked into
the artwork. A bride will also wear a veil with her yellow wedding dress.
Nikah and Shaadi - This is the official Islamic marriage ceremony that commences in the home o the
bride. Family and friends attend this, and the men and women are often separated. After this,
Shaadi takes place. This is the Pakistani form of a wedding reception. Here, the bride wears a
gharara, which consists of a purple, red or pink tunic that ends above the knee, a veil and wide-
legged pants.
Pakistani Bride - It is all decorated with Zari, a gold and silver wire woven directly into the fabric, and
Zardozi, which is another variant of typical embroidery. Many other bright colors may be
incorporated into this bridal attire, but it completely depends upon the bride’s choosing. No matter
what color scheme is chosen, the Pakistani wedding gowns and outfits worn on this day include a
large amount of gold jewelry.
Walima - On this final day, the couple throws a dinner party together as officially husband and wife.
Here a bride will wear, once again, plenty of gold jewelry paired with a dress in varying pastel
shades.
http://www.rewaj.com/weddings/wedding-in-pakistan.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistani_wedding
http://www.worldweddingtraditions.com/locations/asian_traditions/pakistani_traditions.html
http://www.pakweddingservices.com/
http://www.articlesbase.com/marriage-articles/pakistani-wedding-dresses-and-wedding-gowns-
613260.html

PHILIPPINES
Manila being the capital city of Philippines, it is located South East Asia
between the Philippine Sea and South China Sea, East of Vietnam.
Made-up of Christian Malay 91.5%, Muslim Malay 4%, Chinese 1.5%,
other 3% by ethnicity it is majority Roman Catholic 83%, Protestant 9%,
Muslim 5%, Buddhist by religion.
Due to the majority belief in Christianity, the western theme of a white

wedding dress is the majority choice for weddings and many designers
and bridal retail stores can be found in the Philippines ready to offer
their services to commemorate this special day for couples.
Traditionally, a Filipino bride would wear her best dress

on her day of matrimony. Brides in the Philippines
usually wear a white dress, similar to the western
themed white wedding dress called ” Terno” (see image left) which is the Spanish
word meaning "to match." As the Philippines historically have been under colonial
ruling there are mixtures of traditions that have been influenced by their colonial
masters.
It was the handiwork of not just one couturier but a coming together of the
innovations of many. The Filipino terno alludes to the matching of blouse and skirt,
joined at the waist to form a one-piece creation, with both bodice and skirt made of
the same material. The sleeveless are upright, flat against the shoulders like clipped
butterfly wings. Its low neckline contours the bosom. The whole is nipped at the waist to let fall a
shapely skirt that is rounded, flared or trailed at the hem.
Today, a bride getting married in the Philippines might wear a white wedding dress on her day of
matrimony, while her groom could be wearing a black tuxedo. (see below for designers and
websites)
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Typically would follow the colour and theme of the
bride.
TUXEDOS
Grooms and other male guests usually wear a traditional white Baro-ng Tagalog
with black trousers. The baro-ng tagalong (see image right) is a thin silky
embroidered shirt which is worn over a white tee-shirt. However modern
weddings set with the western theme, has seen grooms opting for black tuxedos
for their weddings.

Angelo’s Barongs Etiketa Clothing District Company Bonaobra Couture

113 B Dona Segunda Bldg., Kamuning Ltd. Trends Wedding Shoppe, Level Four,
Road QC;Maytalang I-National Rd., 224-24 Level II Fashion Market, Main Mall, Robinsons Galleria Ortigas
Lumban, Laguna Market! Market! Bonifacio Global City Center, Quezon City
Tel : 4107218 / 0916-5446795 / (049) Taguig Metro Mla Tel : 631-7806
5016757 / 09182761727 Tel : 7295205 / 4278873 / 0917- Website : www.bonaobracouture.com
Fax : 4107218 8210901
Website : Website : Carmen Lazaro Couture / Vonticar
http://suppliers.weddinglibrary.com.ph http://suppliers.weddinglibrary.com.ph Bridals
/angelo /etiketa 4Upper Level Goldcrest Bldg., Glorietta,
Ayala Ctr, Makati City
Bridal Factory Jazel Sy Tel : 8174376 / 0922-8135515
Unit A-105 452 Edsa (Southbound) Carrenzel Mansion Suite B, 1538 San
Guadalupe Viejo, Makati Gregorio St., cor Figueroa St., Paco Dore’ Bridal Couture
Tel : 8968427 / 6100546 / 8705387 Manila 200 Ortigas Ext., Ave. Brgy. Sta. Lucia
Website : www.bridal-factory.com Tel : 5643201-03 / 5641546 / 0915 Pasig City
7257406 / 0922 5497792 Tel : 6569229
Edd Sy Collection Website : www.jazelsyfs.multiply.com
122 JP Rizal St. cor. Delos Reyes St. Jamif Creations
Proj 4 Quezon City Lloyd Arceo 252 Celestino Bldg., Pamplona 2,
Tel : 9137072 / 4216493 / 250 B P.Tuazon St., cor 15th Ave., Alabang Zapote Rd., Las Pinas City
09198145547 / 09169472928 Cubao QC; 181 Bonifacio Ave., Tanong Tel : 3866172 / 0915-4819813
Website : www.eddsy.com Marikina City
Tel : 4393994 / 0920-9702256 / Jazel Sy Fashion Shop
Edward Teng Collection 9330654 Carrenzel Mansion Suite - B 1538 San
Website : www.lloydarceo.com Gregorio St., Paco Manila
Tel : 5643201-03
Lui & Jon Artstyles Website : www.jazelsy.com
303 Haig St., Mandaluyong City
Tel : 7174619 / / 0919-8992358/ M Design Wear
0919-4332295
9681 Kamagong Street, San Antonio
Website : www.luiandjon.multiply.com
Village, Makati City
Merlene J. Marcelo Couture Tel : 7298848 / 8903650 / 0917-
G/F Columbian International Tower 500 5006401
Santol St. Sta Mesa Manila Website : www.merlenemarcelo.com
Tel : 7165731 / 7165710 / 7165683 /
09189040831 / 09178978362 Philip Rodriguez
Fax : 7165742 Pierre Angeli Boutique, F Ramos Cebu
Website : www.edwardteng.com 9681 Kamagong Street, San Antonio City
Village, Makati City Tel : (032)2536569 Cebu
Edwin F. Uy Tel : 632.890.3650 & +632.729.8848 Fax : (032)2536567
537 BoniAvenue Ext., Mandaluyong Website :
Rajo Laurel
City http://www.merlenemarcelo.com/
6060 Palma St., Poblacion, Makati City
Tel : (632) 532-9369 / (632) 532-9433
Tel : (02)8956426 / (02)8905323
/ (632) 645-5049 / (63) 917-830-1489 Shirley Arambulo-Lustado
Fax : (02)8967046
/ / / (63) 922-727-5829 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: 14 Saint John
Website : www.edwinfuy.com St., Cubao, QC (near Chocolate Lover’s
Ready To Wed
P. Tuazon)
Unit 2A Parc Plaza, E. Rodriguez Jr.
Elizabeth Vy Tel : 0918-9900435 / 7155254
Ave, Libis, QC
87 Real St. Urdaneta Village Makati Website :
Tel : 6350016 / 6471422
City, Philippines 1225 http://suppliers.weddinglibrary.com.ph
Website : www.rtwed.com
Tel : 632-8100056 / 63922-8100056 / /shirlustado
63926-6255662
Renee Salud
Fax : 632-8151023 Tina Basa-Reyes Fashion
289 E Rodriguez Sr Avenue Quezon
Website : www.vyinstyle.com Consultant
City
168 M. Paterno St., San Juan Mla
Tel : 7120459 / 7120471
Tel : 7222277 / 09178443323
Fax : 7120475
EMILY SY of Esy Creations Website : www.tinabasa-reyes.com
9782 Kamagong St., cor Dita St., San
Rochielle P. Llamoso/ Chelle
Antonio Village., Makati City Ysabelle Fashions
Collection
Tel : 8955374 / 09189207896 / TOLL 1303 Benavidez St., Sta. Cruz Manila
Lot7 Blk2 Ph5B Banaba
FREE NO: 1-877-4022748 Tel : 3210204 / 2568055 / 3665908
St.,Greenwoods Executive Vill, Pasig
Fax : 4178148 Website
City
Website : www.emilysy.com :http://suppliers.weddinglibrary.com.p
Tel : 09177474489 / 6437438
h/ysabelle

(partially quoted from http://www.weddingsatwork.com/index.php/pinoy-pre-wedding-rituals-in-

modern-times/)
The traditional marriage celebration dance is the Pandango. Reception guests pin money to the
newlyweds to help pay for the honeymoon. Often times, there is a bird cage decorated as a wedding
bell with white doves inside. The newlyweds release the birds, symbolizing the bride and groom
going off together in peace.
“Pagtatapat” - Marriage Proposal without popping the actual question
They say that no woman wants to be married without first being asked. But do Filipino men really
know how to propose? If so, why does the phrase “Pakakasalan mo ba ako?” (Will you marry me?)
sounds more like a threat than a proposal? Popping the question is a totally Western concept that
seems out of place within serious Filipino relationships where marriage is often a matter of ‘when’
rather than ‘if’.
“Singsing / Paghingi ng Kamay” - The Engagement Ring as dowry
A ring symbolizes such a deeper commitment that your average Pinoy will avoid this as a gift to a
girlfriend early in the relationship to avoid sending the wrong signal. The engagement ring concept is
likewise a Western influence, but its local adaptation is a consequence of practicality rather than
colonial mentality. The giving of the ring is actually a scaled-down version of our forefather’s offering
of dote/bigay-kaya (dowry) to his future wife (and her family) to signify his intentions. It is a
symbolic gift for her acceptance to the asking of her hand in marriage (paghingi ng kamay).
“Despedida de Soltera” - A wholesome bachelorette party
The despedida de soltera (literally, goodbye to spinsterhood) is a send-off party held close to the
wedding date in honor of the bride-to-be and hosted by her family. This celebrates her family’s
consent and blessings for the upcoming union. The groom and his family, the wedding entourage,
close friends & relatives from both sides are all invited to meet and get to know one another before
the big day. The occasion may serve as the formal introduction of the two families/clans to each
other. This affair can be anything from a formal sit-down dinner to a casual get-together party.
“Kasal Kumpisal” - Coming ‘clean’ before the ceremony

This is more of a moral obligation than a tradition required by the Church of every marrying Catholic
couple. A few days prior the wedding, soon-to-weds are asked to have their final confessions with a
priest as single individuals since they will partake in the bread and share the wine (symbolic of the
Body and Blood of Christ) during the Nuptial Mass. The confessions serve as a spiritual cleansing for
the sins committed prior to the Sacrament of Marriage and a commitment & devotion to one’s
lifetime partner.
http://www.weddinglibrary.com.ph
http://www.kasal.ph/
http://www.worldweddingtraditions.com/locations/pacific_island_traditions/filipino_traditions.html
http://www.weddingsatwork.com/index.php/kasalan-culture/
http://www.weddingsatwork.com/index.php/pinoy-pre-wedding-rituals-in-modern-times/
http://www.weddinginthesky.com/cp-filipino-wedding-
traditions.htmlhttp://www.shemahaka.com/pewedding/filipino/tradition.php?p=tradition

SAUDI ARABIA
Riyadh being the capital city of Saudi Arabia, the nation is
100% Muslim. Located in the Middle East bordering Iraq,
Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE and Yemen.
In Saudi Arabia, when men and women want to get

married, they prefer to buy new clothes and throw out old
ones. They say this is a new life, so the couple need new
clothes.
On the wedding night, the man dresses in white clothes

and a long cover called a Bisht, and the woman dresses in
white. At the end of the wedding, the man goes with his
father and relatives to his marriage room and sits to drink
some coffee for a few minutes. Then they leave.
Saudi women, like their other Arab counterparts, wear a traditional covering, called an abaya. It is a
large, loose-fitting cloak-like garment worn over their clothes. The purpose of this Arabic dress is to
protect the women, and help them to remain modest.
The colour for a Saudi Arabian woman’s wedding dress is usually white. The styles and cuts of Arabic
dresses are as individual as the woman who wears them and prices range from US$20 to several
hundreds.
(quote from http://www.insidesaudi.com/saudiwomen.html)
Hijab is a general word that indicates not just the headscarf, but clothing in its entirety. A proper
Arabic woman has to meet the following conditions :
1. Clothing must cover the entire body, only the hands and face may remain visible (depending on
the Islamic school of thought and what her husband or protective male dictates)
2. The material must not be so thin that one can see through it.
3. The clothing must hang loose so that the shape or form of the body is not apparent.
4. The female clothing must not resemble the man's clothing.
5. The design of the clothing must not resemble the clothing of the non-believing women.
6. The design must not consist of bold designs which attract attention.
7. Clothing should not be worn for the sole purpose of gaining reputation or increasing one's status
in society.

BRIDES MAIDS

Traditional Saudi Arabian costumes apply and should
be in keeping with the colour and theme of the
wedding (see image right).
TUXEDOS
The Arabic dress for the typical Saudi Arab man, is a

long white, shirt-like garment, called a “Thobe” (see
image below). The thobes look like an extended
dress shirt, complete with different types of collars
and cuffs.
This Arabic dress garment is loose fitting, always long sleeved, and ankle-length. Thobes are usually
made out of cotton material, but can be a cotton blend, such as cotton polyester or nylon. Some
thobes are made from fine wool blends, and very expensive ones made from silk. The Thobes are
never pure silk or wool, they must be a blend.
The Thobes can have mandarin-type stand up collars, or

pointed collars. There are even some with buttoned down
collars on designer thobes. The more expensive Thobes have
covered buttons, pockets at the hips and sometimes a breast
pocket. Some have buttoned sleeves and others have French
cuffs. The Arab men often use 18 karat gold cuff links, or cuff
links with gem stones to hold the sleeves together.
As long as the adornments applied to the Arabic dress

garment are not made of pure gold or silver, then the Arab
man is in compliance of Sahria Law.
 http://www.faragebride.com/
 http://www.rozlakelin.com/5230/5230.html
There are a few bridal retail stores already established in Saudi Arabia for those who incorporate the
western theme into their weddings. The above mentioned websites and contact info are supplied
herein.
http://www.faragebride.com/
A & A FASHIONS
Ghosenal Ban Est. CASUAL SMART
Po Box 10952 PO Box 79788
Jeddah 21443 Al Khobar 31952
Kingdom of Saudi tel. +966 38871226
Arabia
tel: 00966 2 6924919

http://www.rozlakelin.com/
Al-Asad Fashion
Al-Rashad Mall
Al-Khobar 31952
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Phone: 966 3 897 6937
Islam is practiced by all Saudis and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Islam
was born in Saudi Arabia and thus is visited by millions of Muslims every year.
Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon,
sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim
holy day. Everything is closed. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend
Thursday and Friday.
During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted
to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing.
Each night at sunset, families and friends gather together to celebrate the breaking of the fast called
the “iftar”. The festivities often continue well into the night. In general, things happen more slowly
during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at
unusual times.
Traditionally, Saudi wedding customs are simple and swift. Since there is no dating in Saudi, Islamic
marriage is prearranged. Sometimes the mother of the bride knows of a man she thinks would be a
good match for her daughter, and sometimes men and women are paired by matchmakers. Often a
man seeks alliances with other Saudi tribes to improve his station in life, and therefore will marry a
woman for the sake of that alliance.
http://www.topics-mag.com/internatl/weddings/wedding-customs.htm
http://library.thinkquest.org/06aug/00844/saudiarabia.html
http://www.justlanded.com/english/Saudi-Arabia/Saudi-Arabia-Guide/Legal-System/Marriage-
Divorce
http://countrystudies.us/saudi-arabia/21.htm

SINGAPORE
Located in Southeastern Asia it islands between Malaysia
and Indonesia. Capital city is Singapore. The Ethnic make-up
of Singapore is 76.7% Chinese, 14% Malay, 7.9% Indian and
is a mixture of Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, Hindu, Sikh,
Taoist & Confucianist religion.
Singapore is a very multi-ethnic city where Chinese, Malay

and Indian traditions coexist beneath a western
cosmopolitan society. It’s a city that embraces cultural
diversity and accepting of differing traditions.
As Singapore embraces the western culture into their own,

Singapore has a handful of designers specializing in bridal
wear. Pricing unavailable as designers are contacted directly for quotation based on clients needs.
Amanda Lee - http://www.amandaleeweddings.com/ Kevin Seah - http://www.kevinseah.com/
Divine Couture - http://www.divinecouture.com/ Reneel by Renee L - http://www.reneel.com/
Tan Yoong - http://www.tanyoong.com/ Frederick Lee - http://www.frederickbridal.com/

Other designers from Singapore,
Francis Choong and Kai Bridal
(see below websites for more
bridal wear designers & stores).
Dang Bridal - http://www.dangbridal.com.sg/
BRIDES MAIDS
Above designers also do brides maids attire. (see above and below for more info)
TUXEDOS
Grooms are often known to choose designers for their

tuxedos and suits following the western theme
wedding.
Kevin Seah - http://www.kevinseah.com/
WEBSITES – (DESIGNERS OF BRIDAL WEAR & BRIDAL STORES)
 http://www.calswardrobe.com/  http://www.labellecouture.com.sg/
 http://www.amandaleeweddings.com/  http://www.margaretbrides.com/
 http://www.bridalelegance.com.sg/  http://www.mydreamwedding.com.sg/
 http://bridalveilonline.com/  http://www.seletarbroadway.sg/
 http://www.bridalzone.com.sg/  http://www.signorianuziale.com/
 http://www.empire.com.sg/  http://www.silhouette.com.sg/
 http://www.flamingobridal.com/  http://www.silverliningbridal.com/
 http://www.gracefulimage.com.sg/  http://www.the-aisle.com.sg/
 http://www.jcbridalcollections.com/  http://www.weddingpresentbride.com/
 http://www.jawnhappyeverafter.com/  http://www.vaughnt.com/
 http://www.juliaweddingnews.com/  http://www.whitelink.com.sg/
 http://www.kevinseah.com/  http://www.yvonnecreative.com.sg/
Singaporeans who are open minded and are favorable to having a modern wedding. Bridal stores
and designers have been successful in making a name for themselves in this multi-ethnic city
offering services, guides and support in this area.

changes the bride would make throughout the wedding ceremony. Also dependant on whether the
wedding is held in a western, Chinese, Muslim or different religious faith will determine the
traditions that need to be exercised throughout the wedding period.
http://www.singaporebrides.com/
http://www.singaporebrides.com/features_2000.htm
http://www.csuchico.edu/~cheinz/syllabi/asst001/spring98/chinesewedding.htm
http://www.soundvision.com/Info/weddings/customs.asp
http://www.zawaj.com/weddingways/malay.html

SOUTH KOREA
Seoul being the capital city of South Korea it is
located in Eastern Asia and is the southern half
of the Korean Peninsula bordering the East Sea
and the Yellow Sea. Whilst there is no majority
ruling religion within the country there is
Christian, Buddhist & Confucianism faith held by
citizens.
For over 2,000 years, the traditional Korean

costume, the Hanbok, has been worn by men,
women and children. Originally, the Hanbok was
made out of white cotton, silk or a scratchy
coarse fabric called hemp. Today Koreans wear
Hanboks in many colors and types of fabrics.
Since Hanbok has only one pattern, the balance

between the skirt and jacket, the placement of
inner and outer lapels, and the ribbon on the
front of jacket, as well as the location and length
of the jacket ties, illustrate the beauty of symmetry.
The length of the hanbok jacket goes up and down according to the whims of fashion. In the past,
women learned how to make hanbok from their mother or grandmother before they married, and
experience and training enabled them to make dresses at home. These days, most dresses are made
by professionals who have learned their skills under designers or at institutions.
(partially quoted from http://www.dprk-tour.com/sub03/04.php)
White was the basic color most widely used by common people. It symbolized a modest and pure
spirit. In the past, Korea was once called the nation of the white-dressed. Although it is true that
Koreans preferred white to other colors, the strict social class system forced commoners to wear the
white color as casual daily clothes. Only royal and nobility wore color dresses with and gold foils.
Red signified good fortune and wealth and thus was used in woman's wedding garments. Indigo, the
color of constancy used for the skirt of court ladies and the official coats of court officials. Black,
symbolizing infinity and the fountainhead of all creation, was used for men's hat. Yellow, which
represented the center of the universe, was used for royal garments. Common people were
forbidden from wearing yellow. These five colors were also firmly established as symbols of the four
directions and the center of the universe and order of the universe.
(partially quoted from http://www.lifeinkorea.com/culture/marriage/marriage.cfm?xURL=clothes)

The bride wore an elaborate topcoat
with flowing sleeves over her other
clothes called “Wonsam” or
“Hwalot”. Similar to the costume
worn by queens and noblewomen of
the time, a
Wonsam was made with blue silk on the inside and red silk outside.
The front and back had embroidered flowers representing wealth,
longevity, and nobleness. The billowing sleeves had blue, yellow,
red, fabrics, with a wide strip of white at the cuffs, which also had
colourful embroidery.
The wonsam replaced the hwalot during

the Chosun Dynasty (1392-1910), and many brides followed suit.
Princesses wore green ones. The wide sleeves often had 4 or 5 colours,
with wide white strips at the cuffs. This is accompanied with a daedae (belt
of red woven silk with gold embroidery) that wraps around the wonsam or
hwalot and tied in the back.
BRIDES MAIDS
everyone else almost anything goes. A safe rule-of-thumb is to wear 'business attire' or 'business
casual'. No need, usually, to worry about hats or colour. You'll probably see women wearing white,
black and all the colours between. If there's a special theme, it may be on the invitation, if you
receive one.
TUXEDOS
The grooms costume is called “Samogwandae”, which closely resembles the clothes worn by the
lowest ranking court officials during the Chosun Dynasty. The colour and belt decoration symbolized
the person's position within the court hierarchy. As marriage represented the most important event
in a man's life, the groom was allowed to wear this uniform, even though he did not hold any
position in the palace. (Those of higher rank would wear different clothes during their own marriage
ceremony).
A traditional shirt worn by men called the “Cheogori” along with traditional pants called “Paji” which
entailed two straps of cloth (called Daenim) bounding at the cuffs of the paji around the ankles. This
prevented the cuffs from covering up the boots. A traditional jacket called “Dalryeongp'o” was
usually of blue or maroon colour, contained an embroidered picture (hyungbae) of two red crested
white cranes on the middle of the chest.
 http://www.graand.com/South_Korea_Showbusiness_Bridal_Gowns_Accessories_j_gbr_p_k
or_c_11.8.html

South Korea has in recent past been more receptive and accepting of western themed weddings
with many couples choosing to marry in tuxedo suits and white wedding gowns to celebrate their
special day. Although the marriage ceremony itself has changed, many of the traditional practices
and ceremonies leading to the wedding are still observed, although modified for today's modern
lifestyle.
As the modern white wedding theme has become at the very least one outfit change by couples to
pose for photos it has become a popular trend to rent white wedding gowns as opposed to
purchasing one for the occasion. It would be in the interest of retail stores to focus on the rental of a
variety of different designer western wedding gowns with a select few for actual purchase.
There is an area however that specializes in the selling of wedding dresses:
(quoted from http://www.lifeinkorea.com/travel2/seoul/14)
Wedding shops at Ahyeon-dong

Here visitors can buy a wedding dress for the same price as renting one in Japan. The area has about
300 wedding-related shops, including 150 wedding dress shops, traditional Korean dress shops,
wedding photo studios, and beauty salons located on the world's biggest wedding street. Popular
high-class wedding dresses are offered at very low prices. The Ahyeon-dong Wedding Festival is held
every year.
In the past, affection or love played no part in the choice of a spouse. The young couple had little or
nothing to say in the matter since marriage usually was arranged by the parents with the aid of a
matchmaker. The couple generally did not meet until the day of the wedding. Times have changed,
however, and there are now two paths leading to marriage. The first, yeonae, or a love match,
involves the meeting, falling in love, and marriage of two people without the involvement of third
party. The second, jungmae, or arranged marriage, involves the arranged meeting of two people by
a go-between and leads(match-maker), upon agreement of the two parties, to marriage.
Traditional wedding ceremonies, with the elaborately costumed groom riding in a palanquin to the
house of the bride to share ceremonial sips of wine at their first meeting are now seen only at the
Folk Village. Instead, most Koreans have Western-style weddings. After the ceremony is conducted
with the bride wearing a white wedding gown, the bride and groom usually change into traditional
Korean clothing to pay homage to the parents in a separate, smaller room.
The traditional wedding ceremony normally was held at in the courtyard of the bride's house. It
began with the bride and groom exchanging bows and drinks. This was done facing each other with
the wedding table between them. During the bowing ritual, the bride was usually assisted by an
elderly female servant or one or two women well versed in wedding procedures.
The newly married couple, accompanied by the bride's father or uncle and a small procession
carrying various articles and gifts would travel to the bridegroom's home. The bride usually rode in a
palanquin, while the bridegroom led the procession (sinhaeng) on horseback. The sinhaeng was
followed by another ceremony called pyebaek. This was the bride's first greeting to her parents-in-
law and the other members of her husband's family.
Nowadays, weddings are usually held in public wedding halls and churches. With the
accompaniment of piano music, the bridegroom, wearing a Western-style suit, enters the hall where

guests are seated and stands before the presiding person. The bride, dressed in a Western wedding
gown, then enters the hall and escorted by her father, takes her place by the groom. Facing each
other before the officiator, the bride and groom exchange vows and gifts. The officiator usually gives
a sermon about love, marriage and the new social responsibilities involved in married life. The bride
and groom then bow to the guests; photo sessions usually follow the ceremony in addition to a large
feast.
http://www.weddingdetails.com/lore/korean.cfm
http://www.korea4expats.com/article-weddings.html
http://www.weddingdialogues.com/Spring_Featured_Wedding_Custom.html
http://www.lifeinkorea.com/culture/marriage/marriage.cfm?xURL=meaning
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marriage_in_South_Korea
http://www.dprk-tour.com/sub03/04.php
http://www.nationmaster.com/encyclopedia/Marriage-in-South-Korea

SRI LANKA
Located in Southern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of
India, its capital city is Colombo. Its ethnic make-up of Sinhalese
73.8%, Sri Lankan Moors 7.2%, Indian Tamil 4.6%, Sri Lankan Tamil
3.9%, 10.5% with Buddhist 69.1%, Muslim 7.6%, Hindu 7.1%,
Christian 6.2% and others of 10%.
Sri Lanka offers very colourful traditional weddings and tailor

made weddings that can be of the western tradition or traditional
Sri Lankan tradition or Buddhist tradition (known as the “Poruwa”
ceremony depending on the needs and desires of the couple.
The traditional dress for a Kandyan

bride is Osariya which is a sari.
A Kandyan bride prefers to be lavish
whatever she wears and there is lot
of gold, pearls, stones which goes to
add on to the already stunning
looking bride. Colours of white,
ivory, pearl and peach are the
popular choices for both Sri Lankan
(see image left) and Buddhist
weddings (see image right).
The choice to incorporate a traditional Western wedding dress is usually discouraged only because
of the hot climate in Sri Lanka so the sari which is can be tailored made by local dress makers would
suggest silk fabrics.
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Saris or formal attire is usually worn dependant on
the choice of wedding theme. (see retail store information below)
TUXEDOS
Grooms attire can either be tailor made by local tailors or purchased from retail stores. (see retail
store information below)

WESTERN BRIDAL RETAIL STORES & DESIGNERS
1A, St. Joseph Rd., Nugegoda, Sri Lanka.

Tel: (+94-11) 285 6839, 282 1308
Mobile: (+94) (0) 77 303 8181 No. 403, R.A. de Mel Mw., Colombo 03, Sri
Lanka.
Tel: (+94-11) 250 4683
ESHA WEWALA Mobile: (+94) (0) 71 888 8555
17A, Prathibimbarama Rd., Fax: (+94-11) 482 0473
Kalubowila, Dehiwala, Sri Lanka. Website: www.weddingdreams.lk
Tel: (+94-11) 276 4162 Branch:
(+94-11) 276 3000 No. 622, Bulugaha Junction, Kandy Rd.,
Mobile: (+94) (0) 77 755 1584 Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.
Fax: (+94-11) 276 4162 Tel: (+94-11) 482 0472
Email: [email protected] (+94-11) 291 2444 / 291 2456
Website:
www.bridesofsrilanka.com/eshawewala.htm
MICHAEL WIJESURIYA, SAPUMAL BANDARA,

Michaels, 161, Meewathura, Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri
410/34, Baudhaloka Mw., Colombo 07, Sri Lanka.
Lanka. Tel: (+94) (0) 81 238 6860
Tel: 011 536 4908, 269 6236 Mobile: (+94) (0) 77 626 0051
Fax: 011 269 9361 Website:
Mobile: 0722 404311 www.bridesofsrilanka.com/salonanura.htm
Email: [email protected]
PURNIMA ABEYRATNE, RAMANI PERERA,

42, Castle St., Borella, Colombo 08, Sri Lanka. Bridal Designer,
Tel: (+94-11) 536 3802 49, De Mel Rd., Katubedda, Moratuwa,
(+94-11) 269 5138 Sri Lanka.
Email: [email protected] Tel: (+94-11) 260 7754
Website: Mobile: (+94) (0) 77 3725218
www.bridesofsrilanka.com/purnima.htm
UNFORGETTABLE
Sumudu Kumarasiri,
DAISYS No. 140, Stanley Thilakaratne Mawatha,
Shalwars, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka.
469B, Galle Rd., Colombo 03, Sri Lanka. Mobile: (+94) (0) 77 351 5264, (0) 77 758 8451
Tel: (+94-11) 2588675 Email: [email protected]
Fax: (+94-11) 2502498 Website 1:
Email: [email protected] www.bridesofsrilanka.com/unforgettable.htm
Website: Website 2: www.unforgettable.lk
www.bridesofsrilanka.com/daisy.htm

Curtains
167, Galle Rd., Dehiwala, Sri Lanka.
LITTLE WOMEN GARMENT STEPHANIE'S

339, Galle Rd., Colombo 03. Salon & Spa
Tel: (+94-11) 286 3229 214, Peradeniya Rd., Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Email: [email protected] Tel: (+94) (0) 81 222 6842
Website: Mobile: (+94) (0) 77 784 2171
www.bridesofsrilanka.com/littlewomen.htm Email: [email protected]
Website:
Branches: www.bridesofsrilanka.com/stephanies.htm
Majestic City, Colombo 04.
Liberty Plaza, Colombo 03.
Traditionally the bride and the bridegroom set the wedding date with the assistance of an
astrologer, who identifies the most auspicious date and time for the wedding.
Upon decision of the wedding location on the day of the wedding usually drummers and Kandyan
dancers are entertaining throughout the wedding leading up to the ‘Poruwa’, a beautifully decorated
wooden ceremonial platform where the wedding will take place
Offerings to the Gods are made by way of seven betel leaf bundles to the Gods with a request that
protection is provided to the seven generations that originate from the marriage.
Exchanging of the rings takes place and the bridegroom dresses the bride with a gold necklace that
was provided by the groom. This is followed by six girls who bless the marriage with a beautiful
‘Jayamangala Gatha’ chant.
Gifts are exchanged are then exchanged and whilst chanting is continued fingers of the bride and
groom are tied together with gold thread to symbolise the bond and unity. Holy water is poured
over your fingers.
As the couple steps down from the Poruwa platform a coconut is broken as a symbolic gesture to
drive away evil spirits
The registration process, overseen by a government marriage registrar and two witnesses,
commences.
A brass oil lamp, a symbolic and enduring images of Sri Lanka is lit to signify the start of a bright new
future together. The final stage of the ceremony is the cutting of the cake.
http://www.manaali.com/
http://society.indianetzone.com/weddings/1/sri_lankan_wedding.htm
http://www.lankalibrary.com/rit.html
http://www.bridesofsrilanka.com/
http://www.reddottours.com/Weddings/SriLanka/WeddingCeremony.php
http://www.explorelanka.com/special/wedding.htm

http://www.weedings.co.uk/tajexoticaweddingcustoms.htm

THAILAND
Capital city Bangkok and its ethnic make up of 75% Thai and 14%
Chinese, Thailand is predominantly Buddhism with over 90% of
Thailand practising this faith. Located in Southeastern Asia
southeast of Burma it borders the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of
Thailand.
Thai marriage ceremonies between Buddhists are generally

divided into two parts: a Buddhist component, which includes
the recitation of prayers and the offering of food and other gifts
to monks and images of the Buddha, and a non-Buddhist
component rooted in folk traditions, which centers on the
couple's family.
Not typically worn for weddings unless the wedding is

incorporating a western theme. All colors are acceptable except
for black which is considered to be bad
luck.
Pricing varies dependant on fabric,

embroidery and choice of whether semi-
precious stones or gold are desired.
There is no specific designer for Thai
traditional wedding dresses and prices
can vary from US$100 to hundreds as generally the dresses are made from
silk (see image left).
BRIDES MAIDS

Traditional Thai dresses are usually worn.
TUXEDOS
Groom usually wears a mandarin collared silk outfit (see image right).
Prices start from US$100 upwards for quality silk fabric.
 http://www.thaitopwedding.com/
 http://www.thaitopwedding.com/Eng-Thai-Dress-01.html
 http://www.thailandbridal.com/thailand_wedding_dresses.htm
 http://www.siamese-style.com/
 http://www.thai-wedding-dress.com/
 http://www.ramthai.com/thaidresses.html
 http://www.yingwedding.com/
 http://www.thaicraftwarehouse.com/

Thais who are open minded and are favorable to having a modern wedding. Most bridal gowns
wedding gown. There are no specific designers in bridal dressing being offered to Thailand and more
websites above).
Due to Thailand’s majority faith in Buddhism, it would be advisable to enter this market with
conservative styles of western theme with the traditional costumes incorporating both the western
design with local traditions.
changes the bride would make throughout the wedding ceremony. Some Thais have incorporated a
western theme into their wedding reception or for photography and where the marriage is an inter-
racial.
As noted above, Thai wedding traditions take form in several ceremonies (quoted from
http://marrythailand.com/):
Wedding Preparation
The day before the wedding during the evening the Buddhist ceremony would commence
(วั นสุ กดิบ). It is during this Buddhist ceremony that the couple has to pay homage to the
ancestors of the bride. During this ceremony the couple would wear just their ordinary
clothing. There would normally be nine monks present and they would proceed to sit on their
straw mats with a bottle of water and a glass before them. The couple would then sit at what
would best be described as an altar closest to the first monk. A scared or holy thread is then
twirled around the head of the bride and groom and unrolled into the monk’s hand.
Closest to the first monk there would be a bowl of water with a candle inside. It is this holy
water that would be used the following day. The first monk holds a special fan in one of his
hands. The monks would pray rest and then start to pray again. After this pray they leave and
go back to their temple.
Ceremony before the Wedding Day
The following morning, the nine monks would arrive again. This time they will sprinkle the holy
water from the day before on those who are present. This time the bride and groom would
wear traditional Thai dress for the wedding itself. The couple would now kneel close together
and a holy string would again be strung in a circular motion around the head of the bride and
then around the head in a circular formation of the groom, joining them. They would then
proceed to Wai (ไหว้).
There are nine trays each containing small dishes placed before each monk. Prays are said and
the couple would then give each monk money. Monks are not allowed to touch money so the
money is placed into nine envelopes and handed out. They eat and then go back to the
temple. During the retreat season non weddings are held as the monks are not permitted
outside of the temple.

Door Ceremony
Way back then a traditional Thai wedding ceremony would have a “Door Ceremony” where
the groom would open the gates on route to the house of the bride. In order to open the gates
as each gate the groom had to provide a gift. These gifts become larger the closer the groom
gets to the house of the bride. Nowadays the doors are being replaced by girls holding onto a
chain. At each part of the chain the person normally the sisters of the bride would ask if he is
wealthy enough to care for their sister and family. Each time he would present them with an
envelope of money. Each time he passes from one to the other, the audience would cheer.
Wash feet ceremony
The “Door Ceremony” is followed by the “Feet Washing Ceremony”. Some of the ceremonies
are no longer really practiced. The husband would stand on a chair while the wife would bow
at his feet. She would then proceed to wash his feet and wai (ไหว้). This is to symbolise her
allegiance and respect of her husband.
Shell ceremony
The final procedure for a traditional Thai wedding is that the couple kneels on a small pedestal
with clasped hands. They would have garlands around their necks and a village elder would
say a few words. Each guest would then arrive and pour holy water out of a shell onto their
hands and saying a few words. They also hand the couple an envelope filled with money and
the couple would reciprocate by handing them a small wedding memento. This lasts for a few
hours.
http://www.th4u.com/thai_marriage.htm
http://www.thaiworldview.com/bouddha/wed1.htm
http://www.weddingsinthailand.com/traditional_thai_wedding.php
http://www.worldweddingtraditions.com/locations/asian_traditions/thai_traditions.html
http://www.apmforum.com/columns/thai15.htm
http://marrythailand.com/traditional-thai-wedding.php
http://www.horizonmuaythai.com/Thailand/marriage.html
http://www.chiangmai-chiangrai.com/northern_thai_wedding_ceremony.html

TURKEY
Located in the south eastern
Europe and south western Asia
(that portion of Turkey west of
the Bosporus is geographically
part of Europe), bordering the
Black Sea, between Bulgaria and
Georgia, and bordering the
Aegean Sea and the
Mediterranean Sea, between
Greece and Syria its capital city is
Ankara. Ethnically made-up of
80% Turkish and an estimated of
20% Kurdish, it is estimated to be 99.8% Muslim in religion.
In Turkey, the traditional Turkish families form the core of the Turkish culture. The traditional
Turkish wedding which used to last for 40 days and 40 nights now lasts for only three days in rural
areas.
A Muslim wedding program in Turkey lasts from four to seven days, starting with separate
celebrations of the bride and groom's families. From this day on, the couple getting married cannot
see each other until their wedding ceremony.
A Turkish bride might wear a beautifully embroidered silk wedding dress with a red velvet cape. The
bride pictured is in a traditional Turkish wedding dress that is pink silk satin with
silver stitching. Her veil is called a “benaecht” veil.
However as Turkey has become a popular destination for couples from other
countries to have their weddings in the white wedding dress has become the
popular choice for even Turkish brides (see below for designers and websites).
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids in the traditional Turkish costuming

for weddings. However since the modern day adoption of western style weddings
the traditional brides maids dresses would apply and should be in keeping with
the colour and theme of the bride (see below for websites that also offer dresses
for brides maids).
TUXEDOS
Grooms have now started wearing the black tuxedo, adopting the western style wedding that is now
the more common theme to weddings in Turkey.

Many bridal attire can be purchased online or from stores supplying known designers in
Turkey however the three noted below are designers originating from Turkey specifically
creating bridalwear.
http://www.akay.com.tr/ http://www.peterlangner.com/ http://www.vizaje.com/
Turkish Wedding Customs
Marriage, another of the turning points of life, is both individual since it brings together the lives of a
man and a woman, and social, since it establishes family and kinship ties. The wedding ceremony
takes place as a “festival”, especially in small village communities, since it is an activity covering the
whole village. While some of the ceremonies held during different stages of the wedding can be
considered as a feast and entertainment, others resemble an “elegy”.
The stages of customs and ceremonies covering the whole wedding procedure can be listed as:
Before the wedding V. Bridal bath

I. Matchmaking and asking for the hand of a B. Wedding
daughter I. Henna night
II. a. Verbal agreement to betrothal a. Bride henna
b. Sherbet b. Groom henna
c. Engagement II. Receiving the bride
III. Koran-accompanied wedding gift III. Marriage
announcement IV. Bridal Chamber
IV. Sending and exhibiting the trousseau V. After the Bridal Chamber
C. Practices after the wedding
http://forum.kusadasi.biz/thread1159.html
http://www.travour.com/weddings/world-wedding-traditions/turkish-wedding-traditions.html
http://travel.mapsofworld.com/wedding/wedding-traditions-around-the-world/turkish-wedding-
traditions.html
http://www.worldweddingtraditions.com/locations/asian_traditions/turkish_traditions.html
http://turkishculture.blogspot.com/2008/10/traditional-turkish-wedding-dresses.html
http://www.kardelendance.com/dances/trwedding.php

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE)
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of
seven states situated in the southeast of the
Arabian Peninsula in Southwest Asia on the Persian
Gulf, bordering Oman and Saudi Arabia. The seven
states, termed emirates, are Abu Dhabi, Ajman,
Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm
al-Quwain.
It is by and large ethnically made-up of the

following; 34% Arab (19% Emirati and 15% other
Arabs), 8% Iranian, 50% South Asian, 8% other
expats which include Westerners & East Asians.
Abu Dhabi, its capital city and Dubai is their largest
city.
Islam being the predominant religion in UAE the local customs and traditions of UAE is influenced to
a great extent by this religion. Despite majority of the population adhering to faith of Islam (96%) It
does not make UAE a closed society. It seeks to promote the best in its traditions and customs so
that the nation becomes vibrant and attractive to all the people.
However as a rule of thumb for females, dress Western in Dubai, a little more conservative in Abu
Dhabi, and cover ones skin in Sharjah, bar your face, neck and hands. This adheres to the countries
religious traditions and customs.
The white wedding dress has become the popular choice for modern day weddings for visitors who
take on the decision to wed in UAE and even traditional devote Arabs incorporate the western style
to pose for photographs during their wedding.
(images and quoted from http://www.arushi-fashion.com/ - UAE’s leading fashion bridal store)
The henna dress is the traditional wedding dress for certain

communities of the Middle East. This ensemble usually comprises of
pants with embroidered cuffs, over which is worn a jellabia with a very
loose fitting chiffon caftan, called a “thobe” and finally a richly
embellished “shaila”, a shawl used to cover the head and face of the
bride (see images left & right).
The thobe can be multi paneled of various

vivid colors with large open sleeves adding
to this voluminous garment. The neckline
and front panel are also richly embellished
along with the panel seams and the cuffs of
the sleeves. Gold is the prominent color of embroidery to complement
the traditional ‘henna” jewellery which adorns the brides head, neck,
wrists, hands and ankles.
On this auspicious occasion, the brides’ hands and feet are decorated
with intricate designs with henna, where these patterns of bodily
adornment enhance the beauty of the tradition and the ritual of the
custom.

The combination of sumptuous fabrics to highlight the different layers of the ensemble and with the
application of varied exquisite embroidery defines a costume from history for the traditions of
today’s oriental bride and the unique “golden” ceremony that signifies her status of marriage in her
community
BRIDES MAIDS
“Jelabia Mukhawara” is the traditional costume worn

by women to weddings or special occasions (see
image right). This would be the dressing that would
be expected from friends and relatives should the
wedding not be in the style of a western tradition.
TUXEDOS
Men wear the long

white “Dishdasha”
and headdress as
the traditional
costume for weddings (see image left). However as modern
wedding themes become popular amongst the brides, the groom
would more often or not opt to marry in a western style black
tuxedo or suit.

As noted above, though UAE is strict in respect of their religion
and faith it has become acceptable and common for many to
marry incorporating the western theme and style. The leading
western retail store in UAE is Arushi Fashion, who have
successfully combined both the white wedding dress with
selections of the traditional henna gowns.
http://www.arushi-fashion.com
House of Arushi was founded in 1989, specialises in haute couture wedding dresses, henna dresses
and evening gowns for the women of the Middle East, including several of the region's royal families.
Based in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) House of Arushi is known for exclusive jewel-encrusted and
beaded dresses and is considered one of the Gulf region's most prestigious labels. Its customers
include the royal families of the UAR, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman.
WEBSITES – (INCLUDES VARIATION

ON PRICES, FABRIC, DESIGNS ON
ALL ATTIRE)
 http://
www.skfashionhouse.com
 http://www.rahmanian.com
 http:// www.aljeaidi.com
 http:// www.altalli.com

As part of wedding traditions in UAE, the finalization of marriage date marks the beginning of the
preparations for bride's grooming for her wedding, which at times can be quite elaborate. In
preparation for her wedding day, she is given best of foods and supposed to take lots of rest.
Traditionally, she is not supposed to be seen for forty days except for her family members and
relatives. As her wedding day approaches, she is anointed with a variety of traditional oil and
perfumes from head to toe and her hair is washed with extracts of amber and jasmine. On the night
of Laylat Al Henna the bride's hand and feet are decorated with henna. The family members and
relatives sing and dance traditional songs and express their joy. The marriage is more of contractual
in nature rather than being religious. The groom also needs preparation for his marriage but as
compared to the bride it is very less.
As a tradition in the United Arab Emirates, the setting of the wedding date marks the beginning of
the bride’s preparation for her wedding. Although the groom is also put through a series of
preparations, the bride’s preparations are naturally more elaborate and time consuming.
In preparation for her wedding, she is anointed with all sorts of traditional oils and perfumes from
head to toe. Her body is rubbed with cleansing and conditioning oils and creams, the hands and feet
are decorated with henna, and the hair is washed with extracts of amber and jasmine. She is fed only
the best of foods and her girlfriends prepare the best dishes, which they share with her.
Traditionally, she is not seen for forty days except by family members as she rests at home in
preparation for her wedding day. Fine pieces of jewelry, perfumes, silk materials, and other
necessary items are presented to her by the groom, from which she creates her elaborate trousseau
called addahbia.
The festivities usually take about one week before the wedding night. Nowadays, although most
weddings are celebrated in less than one week, they are just as elaborate and ceremonial, if not
more. A few days before the wedding is the henna night, which is a very special night for the bride
since it is a ladies’ night only. Another traditional element of the Emirati customs is the Arabian kohl
or eyeliner. The bride, as well as many other Emirati women, like to line their eyes on almost all
occasions.
After her eyes are lined, her hair is perfumed, and her hands and feet are decorated with henna, the
bride is ready for her wedding night. The back-to-back feasts and celebrations involve both men and
women, who usually celebrate separately. Although the celebrations and customs differ somewhat
in different areas, the general traditions, most of which are still adhered to, are the same throughout
the country.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Arab_Emirates
http://www.zawaj.com/weddingways/uae.html
http://www.islamonline.net/English/Eid/1424/marriage/trade/article12.SHTML
http://www.arushi-fashion.com/wedding.php
http://www.prb.org/pdf05/MarriageInArabWorld_Eng.pdf
http://www.wedding.am/en/ordinary/80.htm
http://www.wedding.ae/
http://www.sagroupuae.com/uae-culture.asp
http://www.grapeshisha.com/UAE-National-clothing.html

VIETNAM
Hanoi being it’s capital city, Vietnam is located in Southeastern Asia,
bordering the Gulf of Thailand, alongside China, Laos and Cambodia
with majority of the population holding the Buddhism faith.
Vietnam has very strict guidelines on social interactions and so

marriage customs are also strict in traditions. The day of the
wedding consists of an extensive array of ceremonies: the first is the
ceremony to ask permission to receive the bride, the second is the
procession to receive the bride at her house, the third is to the
procession of bringing the bride to the groom's house. Both
Vietnamese and overseas-Vietnamese who desire to have a hybrid
traditional Vietnamese and Western-style wedding will often
incorporate the last two ceremonies with the Western-style
wedding.
Not typically worn for weddings unless the wedding is incorporating

a western theme. Wedding dresses called Áo dài, these dresses
were modeled after the Áo mệnh phụ (royal
Áo dài) of Nguyen Dynasty court ladies (see
image left).
The difference between the Áo mệnh phụ and the typical Áo dài is the
elaborateness of its design. The former is usually embroidered with imperial
symbols such as the phoenix and includes an extravagant outer cloak. This
gown is preferably in red or pink, and the bride usually wears a Khăn đống
headdress.
In modern weddings, brides usually change into three different gowns during
the reception. Her dresses are usually composed of the Western white wedding gown, a second
Western dress to be worn at the end of the evening during the dancing, and a third traditional Áo dài
to be worn during the traditional table visits to personally thank the guests for coming.
are desired. There is no specific designer for Áo dài only different designs as the wedding itself is
heavily influenced by religion and faith. Price ranges from as little as US$50 to hundreds.
BRIDES MAIDS
No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Traditional Áo dài

dress is expected.
TUXEDOS
Groom wears a simple male equivalent of the Áo dài often blue in

color (see image right).

 http://aodaivinh.com/2009-ao-dai-c-184.html
 http://www.aodai4u.com/
 http://vietnam.asiaxpat.com/directory/expat-shopping-guide/bridal-shops/1223/milan/
 http://www.i-amour.com/Vietnam_Ao_Dai.php
 http://good-times.webshots.com/album/556583870EAyuNi
Vietnamese who are open minded and are favorable to having a modern wedding. Most bridal
gowns purchased are from local tailors who also recognize the western trend of marrying in a white
wedding gown. There are no specific designers in bridal dressing being offered to Vietnam and more
websites above namely http://aodaivinh.com/2009-ao-dai-c-184.html ).
changes the bride would make throughout the wedding ceremony. It has become more of a trend to
incorporating a western theme to weddings in Vietnam with many couples posing in western bridal
wear for wedding photos.
On the morning of a wedding in Vietnam, the groom's mother visits the bride's family and offers
them two gifts. The first is a special plant, that represents respect, and the second is pink chalk,
which is the color of happiness.
As noted above, Vietnamese wedding traditions take form in several ceremonies:
“Engagement” – this takes place usually 6 months prior to the actual wedding itself and is a
ceremony that usually takes place with arranged marriages.
“The Wedding” - Preparations for the traditional Vietnamese wedding first begins by choosing a date
and time for the marriage ceremony. This is decided by a Buddhist monk, Spiritual leader, or fortune
teller due to the spiritual nature of the occasion.
On the day of the wedding several ceremonies are held (quoted from http://en.wikipedia.org/)
“Asking Permission to "Receive" the Bride” - On the morning of the wedding day, the groom's
mother (along with a few other close relatives) would make a trip to the bride's home, carrying a gift
of betel. The mother would officially ask permission to "receive" the bride and then notify the family
of the time groom's procession would arrive at the bride's house. It was at this time that the bride's
family would confirm the wedding and further proceedings would take place.
“Receiving Bride at Her House”- On the day of the wedding, there is first a procession and gifting
by the groom's family for the bride and her family. The procession of the groom’s family is led in
specific order. Usually, the first person will be a man chosen as the representative of the groom's
house (this person should have a good manner of speaking and have high status in society), followed
by the groom's father, the groom, then the rest of his immediate family and close friends. Huge
traditional umbrellas are carried and accompany the front of the procession.

Upon arriving at the bride's home, the procession lights fireworks to alert the bride's family, who
then lights its own round of firecrackers to welcome the groom's procession. Members of the
procession are introduced to the bride's family, and the bride's family introduces its members to the
procession. The groom presents his gifts to the bride's family, and he is given permission to greet the
bride, who is finally brought out.
“Permission from the bride's deceased ancestors” - begins in front of the bride's ancestor altar.
The bride and groom kneel in front of the altar and burn incense sticks, asking permission from the
bride's ancestors to bless their marriage and their future family. Afterward, the couple turn and bow
to their parents, giving thanks for raising and protecting them. The bride and groom then bow to
each other.
A formal tea, candle ceremony and speeches follow. While tea has always been an essential part of
Vietnamese life, Vietnamese tea culture is not as complex or ritually rigid as its counterparts in
China, Japan or Korea. Nevertheless, a traditional wedding is about the only time in a Vietnamese
person's life that a formal tea ceremony is essential.
The bride and groom, in front of all their guests, will serve tea (or wine) to their parents. Each parent
will then give advice about marriage and family to the couple. A candle ceremony will follow,
symbolizing the joining of the bride and groom and the joining of the two families. The groom's gift
boxes filled with jewelry will be opened by the groom’s mother, who will then put each piece on the
bride for good fortune.
“Bringing Bride to Groom's House” - As the procession arrives back at the groom's house, the
groom's family members that did not partake in the procession but remained at home will light
firecrackers in celebration. The newlyweds will be brought groom's ancestor altar, where another
ancestor ceremony takes place and the bride is introduced to the groom's relatives. Finally, the bride
is brought to the couple's room and introduced to their marriage bed.
“The Reception for Bride and Groom's Family and Friends” - Following the ceremony at the
groom's house, all of the bride and groom's family and friends are invited to a reception that
traditionally takes place at the groom's house.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traditional_Vietnamese_wedding
http://www.mvmtravel.com/news/newsdetail.asp?NewsID=1183&Subject=Traditional%20Vietname
se%20Wedding&Country=Vietnam
http://www.essortment.com/family/vietnameseweddi_sytf.htm
http://aodaivietnamm.blogspot.com/2008/03/vietnamese-wedding-dress-in-pink.html
http://www.loveofasiavietnam.com/vietnam/wedding.html

Asian Countries & Their Wedding Traditions

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Asian Countries & Their Wedding Traditions

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What are the main traditions involved in a Bangladeshi wedding?

What are the main traditions involved in a Bangladeshi wedding?

What are some common attires worn for a Bangladeshi wedding?

What are some common attires worn for a Bangladeshi wedding?

BANGLADESH

Capital city of Bangladesh is Dhaka with roughly 83% of the

Weddings in Bangladesh are usually held in the Bengali tradition

WHITE WEDDING DRESSES

Not typically worn for weddings.

WEBSITES – (INCLUDES VARIATION ON PRICES, FABRIC, DESIGNS ON ALL ATTIRE)

WESTERN BRIDAL RETAIL STORES

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

As noted above, Bengali weddings are in 4 parts:

“Reception” – (the following is from quoted from http://www.zeelearn.com/)

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

SOURCES & REFERENCES

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

Observing the local customs and traditions is one of the main

WHITE WEDDING DRESSES

A handful of brides who like to be

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

The bride and groom (see image

WEBSITES – (INCLUDES VARIATION ON PRICES, FABRIC, DESIGNS ON ALL ATTIRE)

BRIDAL BOUTIQUES IN BRUNEI

 Az Reen Bridal House. Tel: 876 5649

OCCASIONS & TRADITIONS

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

“Malam Berinai/Berpacar/Pengganggunan” - The Berinai / Berpacar is an event usually attended by

SOURCES & REFERENCES

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

Jordan is largely 98% Arab (50% Palestinian,

WHITE WEDDING DRESSES

The traditional wedding dress called “Sari” or “Lehenga” and traditionally

Heavy bridal sari will have a

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

No emphasis on specific attire for bridesmaids. Traditional

WEBSITES – (INCLUDES VARIATION ON PRICES, FABRIC, DESIGNS ON ALL ATTIRE)

WESTERN BRIDAL RETAIL STORES

OCCASIONS & TRADITIONS

(partially quoted from http://www.shubhlagan.in/Traditions_Muslim.asp)

The Nikaah or wedding ceremony can be conducted at the home

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

“Nikaahnama” - The Nikaahnaama is a document in which the marriage contract is registered. It

SOURCES & REFERENCES

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

Malé is Maldives largest city and its capital city. The

These restrictions regarding Maldives culture are strictly followed in Maldives.

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

WESTERN BRIDAL RETAIL STORES

OCCASIONS & TRADITIONS

(quoted from http://www.tourisminmaldives.com/about-maldives/maldives-wedding.html)

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

Its intricate culture has been strongly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.

WHITE WEDDING DRESSES

written, compiled and researched by sky tao (skytao.com)

There is no specific attire for the role of the brides maid

The groom also wears the traditional del for the

Standing at 7 foot 9 inches