"I'm Glad to Be Born Japanese ♡" The Privilege of Yamato Nadeshiko: A Recommendation for the Trending 'Wa-Kon' Wedding Style ♡
2015.11.10 published
The Popularity of Traditional Japanese Weddings is Rising ♡
Until now, Western-style weddings have been the mainstream, but recently the popularity of traditional Japanese weddings (Wakon) has skyrocketed! The trigger was the wedding of actors Masahiro Higashide and Anne on October 4th, where they had a Wakon-style ceremony ♡ Their wonderful appearance became a hot topic, and the number of brides-to-be wanting to have a Wakon is rapidly increasing ♩
But what exactly is a Wakon? Many brides-to-be may be wondering about what kind of wedding it is! Therefore, let me introduce the charm of Wakon that makes you absolutely want to have one ♡
Wakon Charm #1: Shinto Ceremony
A Shinto ceremony is a wedding held at a shrine in front of a Shinto priest and shrine maidens. It is the original form of Japanese weddings and has been a tradition since the Meiji era*
The rituals created by this tradition are solemn, allowing you to hold the ceremony with a calm mind*
The rituals like the Tohokai dance (performed by shrine maidens) and the oath (words of commitment) are very sacred and deeply moving, making it a truly memorable ceremony that is popular among both the bride and groom as well as the attendees ♡
Wakon Charm #2: You Can Take Stunning Photos ♡
The photos taken in traditional attire or in a white wedding kimono have a very atmospheric quality, which is a wonderful aspect ♡ During this season, if you take photos against a backdrop of autumn leaves, they can become beautifully decorated photos that you would want to display ♩
Such a cute composition is enhanced by the kimono ♩ Using props like traditional umbrellas allows for playful and charming photos ♡
The contrast of black and white is very beautiful, giving the couple a rich atmosphere* The back view in traditional clothing is also charming, allowing for many atmospheric photos ♩
In Western attire, the groom in a tuxedo may not stand out much, but a groom in a traditional formal kimono looks incredibly cool, making it a unique highlight for the couple’s best photos ♩
Wakon Charm #3: The White Kimono Look Is Incredibly Elegant ♡
Although white kimonos tend to be avoided as looking outdated, they actually show Japanese women at their most beautiful. It's a shame not to wear one, especially being born Japanese*
The serene and pure white fabric portrays you as a composed and elegant woman ♡
The fact that part of the face is slightly concealed adds an element of grace and makes it a strikingly beautiful look ♡
Moreover, the moment of "Chin-sashi" (the ceremony where the mother applies lipstick to her daughter as a final touch) is a crucial point to cherish ♡ The contrast of white and red is incredibly beautiful and alluring ♡
Wakon Charm #4: Unique Wedding Items
The wedding items that are uniquely part of Wakon are all innovative ♩ A daruma welcome doll seems like it would bring happiness and smiles ♡
The table settings using traditional patterns can look so high-class ♩ Let’s design cute paper items with patterns of chrysanthemums and peonies ♡
A ring pillow inspired by the story of Princess Kaguya, featuring a bamboo motif ♡ For those who want to stand out, traditional items are highly recommended ♩
If you go for traditional attire, a folding fan bouquet is a fantastic suggestion ♡ Its understated elegance is truly charming ♩ You can sprinkle them cutely throughout the decor ♡
Even with the same fan bouquet, a more formal one can be made ♩ The combination of fans and flowers is the key ♡
A ball bouquet in traditional attire is recommended for colorful wedding kimonos ♡ It features very cute colors, aligning with the elements that girls love ♡
Let’s Showcase the Unique Allure of Being Japanese with Wakon ♡
Wakon maximizes the charm of being Japanese ♡ It allows the couple to be modest yet elegant ♩
\I'm Glad I Was Born in Japan/
Knowing the charm of Wakon is truly a unique trait of Japanese people. A majestic and tasteful wedding will surely be a day that no one forgets ♡ Let’s realize a touching wedding through Wakon ♩
You will definitely feel like saying, "I'm glad I was born Japanese ♡" and want to express gratitude to your mother and father ♡