Essential Guide for Families: The Flow and Key Points of Introducing Relatives on Wedding Day*

2018.01.04 published

殿堂記事

What is a [family introduction] at a wedding?

Since ancient times, marriage has meant "the bond between families." Even in modern times where love marriages are more common, marriage is considered an important event involving not only the couple but also their families and relatives.

Therefore, during the wedding ceremony where the couple becomes a married couple, a time for [family introduction], where the families of both sides meet, is set aside.

This is the first time both families gather together. Given that everyone will be nervous, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the flow to ensure a smooth proceeding.

@nagisa_marry

In this article, we will introduce the flow and key points of the [family introduction] during a wedding ceremony.*

Make sure to discuss the family introduction with your families ahead of the wedding day.

When and where does the family introduction take place?

The family introduction usually takes place using the time before the ceremony. The duration is typically about 15 to 20 minutes, which is not very long, but relatives attending will need to gather about an hour earlier than other guests.

Don’t forget to include a note in the invitation for the guests who will attend the family introduction.

Regarding which guests to invite, generally, it includes parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and cousins' children.

Example note: We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience, but we are planning a family introduction on the day, so we kindly ask you to gather by [time].

@emu__weddingram

The family introduction is generally conducted in a family waiting room. The couple will be present in their wedding attire.

Occasionally, there are venues where the family introduction takes place without the couple present during their preparation or photo sessions.

What is the flow of the family introduction?

The family introduction proceeds as follows:

① Opening greeting for the introduction

② Introduction and greetings from the groom's side

③ Introduction and greetings from the bride's side

④ Closing greetings

The opening greetings for the family introduction are done by the host (matchmaker or staff of the venue) or the groom's father.

The order of introductions starts from the groom's side: father → mother → siblings → relatives (grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins).

There are two types of family introductions.*

Family introductions can take two forms: "representative introduction" and "self-introduction."

<Self-introduction format>

The self-introduction format is a method where everyone introduces themselves by stating their name and relationship.

Since everyone greets one another, the atmosphere can be more cheerful than the representative format. However, if there are those who are easily nervous or not good at speaking in front of others, the proceedings may not go smoothly.

It's helpful to decide on someone beforehand who can assist in managing the flow if it gets stuck.

If the number of participants is low, it’s also recommended to share memories or stories about the couple! Since the ceremony is coming up, be careful not to let it go too long.*

<Representative format>

The representative format is where a representative of the family (father, mother, uncle, etc.) introduces each relative by name and relationship.

In the case of the representative format, since one representative introduces everyone, it can proceed more smoothly compared to the self-introduction format (this is more common!).

However, there may be occasions where the representative gets nervous and forgets full names, so it's a good idea to have a note handy.

In addition to names and relationships, mentioning places of residence can make the introduction more memorable.

The flow typically starts with the host saying, "Groom's father, please introduce your family."

Then, the groom's father will say, "I am the groom's father, (name). To the family of (bride), I would like to introduce the (groom) family. Thank you." followed by beginning the individual introductions.

When a name is mentioned, the person stands up and bows.

If someone is absent, it is customary to add a reason such as, "○○ is absent due to illness (on a business trip, about to give birth, elderly)."

After all introductions are complete, the representative concludes with, "Thank you for your continued support."

What happens after the family introduction?

After the family introduction, the host or the representative will deliver closing words, and the gathering time begins.

You should discuss with both families and the venue whether to continue chatting until the ceremony starts or to take a family photo afterward.

Prepare yourself mentally for the family introduction.*

We have introduced the flow and key points of the [family introduction] that will take place on the wedding day.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with thoughts about the ceremony and reception, but the family introduction is also a very important event.

Both families would like to prepare thoroughly so that each relative feels at ease, thinking "that family is reassuring."

Before the wedding day, discuss with your families:

☑ Which format to choose

☑ Who will be introduced in what order

☑ Who will give the opening and closing greetings

and make sure to decide these points together.♩

➡ Click here for a list of family introduction articles