Everything You Need for a Perfect Family Meeting Dinner: Essential Items to Prepare!

2017.01.17 published

May the time for the families to meet be warm and friendly....♡

After the proposal and the decision to marry, both families will greet each other, right? Once the marriage announcement is made, it's finally time for the family meeting＊

Marriage is not just about the couple; it's a union between families. It’s very important for both families, who will be involved in each other's lives for decades to come, to get along well together♡

Therefore, the family meeting is a crucial first step, and I want it to be a time for everyone to understand each other through thorough preparation◎

@yuih_wd

Just like the wedding ceremony, the family meeting is also a once-in-a-lifetime event. Even if you may meet many times in the future, I want to create a memorable first ceremony that is smooth, friendly, and enjoyable!

However, it can be quite nerve-wracking when people who don't know each other gather in one place. That's why 'preparation' is the most important thing to ensure a smooth and cheerful meeting＊

Here are four items or things to prepare that can help ensure the success of the family meeting＊

Items to prepare for the family meeting ① Program

First of all, since many people will be gathering, it's important to share 'the purpose of this time' and 'the flow of this meeting' with everyone＊ A program detailing the schedule is recommended because it helps everyone understand the timing◎

Additionally, writing profiles about both families can serve as conversation starters, so it’s highly recommended since everyone will be interested＊

Many people may not know how to answer suddenly posed questions about hobbies or favorite foods, and questions like “What’s your age?” or “What’s your profession?” can feel like an interrogation and become tiring.

However, introducing each person one by one can feel somewhat awkward.... So having a list of profiles for all family members not only helps everyone understand each other better but also serves as conversation material, killing two birds with one stone♡

Items to prepare for the family meeting ② Marriage Registration

The typical program for a family meeting often starts with opening remarks, brief self-introductions, a toast, followed by a meal ➡ photo session ending with closing remarks ➡ and dispersing.

Some couples choose to have everyone fill out the marriage registration during the family dinner, which is a lovely idea♡ The marriage registration requires signatures from witnesses, and usually, parents are asked to be the witnesses.

@m0e_takahashi

Couples who might not have many chances to meet in the future often fill out the marriage registration during the family dinner, with everyone watching, and then keep it carefully until the date of registration... It seems to be a common practice＊

This way, the couple can also take commemorative photos with the marriage registration on the spot, and it's highly recommended to capture this special moment together with both families, as it’s a rare opportunity to take photos with the marriage registration＊

Writing names on the marriage registration with everyone watching feels like a mini wedding, which is incredibly joyful♡

@aca_wedding

Items to prepare for the family meeting ③ Commemorative Gifts

While it's not necessary to give commemorative gifts, preparing something for both parents 'to remember that day' or 'as a thank you for gathering together' can become a meaningful keepsake later＊

A popular gift is the 'Tsuresohi Mamoru,' wishing for long-lasting companionship, which is given to the parents and in-laws who are experienced couples＊

Additionally, some couples showcase their engagement or wedding rings during this time♡ While it has a slightly different meaning, it has a similar feel to an engagement ceremony.

Items to prepare for the family meeting ④ Camera for Commemorative Photos＊

One thing that should definitely not be forgotten during the family meeting is the final photo session♡

Even if everyone is feeling nervous or shy, and whether or not the atmosphere is cheerful, let’s ensure to take a group photo to commemorate everyone gathering together.

The photos taken that day will surely be something that parents want to show off to relatives. Parents would want to announce that their daughter is engaged to someone like this and is marrying into such a family, so make sure not to forget＊

A mobile camera is sufficient, but having a proper camera may yield clearer and more beautiful photos, so it’s recommended.

May the bond between both families become closer and deepen♡

The family dinner meeting can be nerve-wracking, but it’s the first step in starting the relationship between the two families!

To build a long-lasting relationship where both families can support each other for decades to come, let's remember to introduce ourselves, announce the marriage, and convey the feeling of gratitude for the future so that both sets of parents feel reassured and think, “We’re glad our children are joining such a family” during this time♡

@hisa.wedding