"Essential Performances for a Traditional Japanese Wedding: The Beautiful 'Greeting Ceremony' to Express Gratitude to Parents"

Gratitude Ceremony to Parents

A wonderful production that all brides having a traditional wedding should know.

It's the "Gratitude Ceremony," where brides show their wedding attire to their parents and express their gratitude for raising them.

What is the Gratitude Ceremony?

In Japan, it has long been customary for the bride to prepare at her parental home, express gratitude by bowing three times to her parents, and then head to the groom's waiting home.

Taking the time to express gratitude to the parents and family who have raised them is a moment that will last a lifetime in their memory.

"Thank you for raising me well"

"I hope you find happiness"

They exchange words before heading to the groom's home.

In the past, brides used to prepare at home, allowing for such moments, but recently, it has become less common, with many getting dressed at wedding venues or shrines instead.

As a result, there has often been no formal time with the parents, leading directly to the shrine ceremony without this moment.

However, based on the policy of wanting to cherish the time to express gratitude to parents, wedding venues have established the "Gratitude Ceremony" to create this dedicated time with parents.

This originated at the wedding venue "Manyoya Honten" in Kamakura.

The Groom Also Participates in the Gratitude Ceremony at the Same Time

The Gratitude Ceremony is not just for the bride.

At the same time, the groom also expresses his gratitude to his parents in a separate room.

While the bride may read a letter to her parents during the reception, the groom often lacks opportunities to express gratitude directly to his parents.

He can either give them a letter or look them in the eye and say "Thank you." It will surely be a memorable and joyous time for his parents as well.

Let's Express Gratitude to Parents

The "Gratitude Ceremony," where you formally express your gratitude to your parents.

Dressed in wedding attire, expressing your gratitude will surely touch the hearts of your parents.

Some wedding venues or shrines may not have specific times or places for the Gratitude Ceremony, so if you wish to have it, you need to confirm with the venue.

At the origin venue "Manyoya Honten," you're guaranteed to have the time for the Gratitude Ceremony, so brides nearby should consider it as an option.