Some Japanese couples decide to have Western styled weddings. Both the parents of the bride take part in the ceremony. The father of the bride walks the bride down the aisle, and the mother of the bride lowers the veil over the bride’s face. Both the mother and father’s actions are symbolic of giving the bride away. The ceremony may take place at a hotel or church. There is an exchange of vows, followed by an exchange of rings.

The reception after the wedding ceremony can be quite theatrical. Usually an MC introduces the couple as their first appearance as husband and wife. When the couple enters the reception hall, stage lights and a cloud of smoke all provide a dramatic effect to the couple’s entrance. The bride may change several times over the course of the reception. The MC’s role is to initiate the events scheduled for the reception, such as the cutting of the cake and the couple’s first dance as husband and wife. At the right time, a toast is made by an honored guest, to the bride and groom.

Photographs are taken all throughout the ceremony. There’s also a time when the guests and the couple can dance to music. An important event is the candle light service. The couple lights a candle as a way to commemorate the union of two people. There’s also a flower ceremony honoring the parents of the bride and groom. The couple will present these flowers as way of thanking the parents of both families for all their support and love. A bow to the parents of both families is also carried out by the couple. When the wedding ends, the couple thanks the guests.

Here’s a video of a contemporary Japanese wedding for your viewing pleasure :