結婚式のスタイルが多様化しており、人前式が人気を集めている。人前式は宗教に縛られない自由な式で、親も参加できる。公の儀式であるため、親子の絆を再確認するパフォーマンスも行われる。人前式のメリットはコスト削減やアットホームな雰囲気である。歴史的にも古代から行われており、日本の伝統としても存在する。親も積極的に参加し、公の儀式に対する理解を深めることが大切である。
When thinking of the previous generation’s weddings, the images of “Christian weddings in churches,” “Shinto weddings at shrines,” or “Buddhist weddings at temples” may come to mind. However, in recent years, wedding styles have become more diverse, with a rise in free styles that reflect individual preferences.
One of these is the “ceremony where guests make marriage vows,” known as the “celebration.” This public ceremony is not bound by religion or tradition. With various guest-inclusive performances, it creates a warm and homely atmosphere.
However, despite the freedom, some may feel a bit apprehensive about leaving everything to their children. By deepening their understanding of public ceremonies in advance, parents may be able to offer advice to their children as seniors in life.
This article introduces the ceremony, the participatory performances for parents, and things parents should be mindful of when it comes to the celebration.
Table of Contents
What is the Celebration?
Popular Performances where Parents also Participate in Public Ceremonies
Tips for Parents Attending Public Ceremonies
Finally
What is the Celebration?
The celebration is a wedding ceremony where guests act as witnesses. The main characteristics of public ceremonies are as follows:
1: No religious atmosphere (Guests become witnesses of the marriage vow, not God)
2: Original weddings can be held (freely arranged at a preferred location)
3: Cost-saving is easier
Public ceremonies are commonly held in churches or gardens. In recent years, casual venues such as restaurants, parks, and campgrounds have become popular, allowing people more freedom in their choices. One of the significant advantages of the celebration is the warm atmosphere that conveys bonds not only at the venue but also among family and friends.
Additionally, unlike other weddings that may require priests, choirs, or shrine maidens, public ceremonies can be relatively cost-effective as they do not require such personnel. This is also a significant reason why many choose public ceremonies.
Many public ceremonies are wedding ceremonies where standard blessings are received. However, it is not uncommon for weddings to incur participation fees.
History of the Celebration
There are various theories about the history of civil ceremonies. According to one theory, civil ceremonies were devised in post-war Japan based on the spirit of the new constitution. It is very common to sign and seal a marriage certificate during the ceremony, which forms the basis of today’s civil ceremonies.
Going further back in history, there is a view that “public weddings were common in ancient Japan.” Before the popularity of Christian and Shinto ceremonies, events like weddings and banquets were often held at family hearths. It is said to have been practiced since the Edo period.
People may think, “Isn’t a celebration a trendy wedding nowadays?” but it actually has a surprising history.
Flow of the Celebration
While there may be some differences depending on the venue or format, the general flow of a celebration is as follows:
1: Entrance
2: Greetings from the host
3: Vows
4: Exchange of rings
5: Signing and sealing the marriage vows
6: Announcement and approval of marriage
7: Closing remarks by the emcee
8: Conclusion
Among these, the entrance, vows, ring exchange, etc., often exude an original feel.
(Although not experts), friends and relatives may conduct the public ceremony. However, the emcee of the celebration is an important figure who influences the atmosphere of the ceremony. It is not an exaggeration to say that the emcee sets the tone of the wedding. Even in a casual celebration, it is best to entrust the emcee role to an experienced professional.
Popular Performances where Parents also Participate in Public Ceremonies
In public ceremonies, there are often performances to reaffirm the bond between parents and children. Some may feel embarrassed to step forward, but this is a valuable opportunity, so enjoy participating.
Here, let’s take a look at some performances where parents may be involved in public ceremonies.
Entrance
In weddings other than public ceremonies, the order of entry into the venue is often predetermined. However, in public ceremonies, the entrance of the bride and groom is free.
For example, in Christian ceremonies, the groom usually enters first, followed by the bride and her father. However, in public ceremonies, it is also possible for the bride and groom to enter with both parents. A presentation emphasizing the close relationship between parents and children, such as entering hand in hand, may help ease the tension of the venue.
Final Preparations Ceremony
Well-known as the classic performance for the bride’s entrance is the “veil.” Wearing the veil symbolizes the mother’s “final preparation” wishing for the child’s happiness.
Recently, the “jacket ceremony,” where the groom’s parents put on jackets after the wedding ceremony, has become popular. The ceremony jacket is like the groom’s version of the veil. It is a rare opportunity for the groom’s usually uninvolved parents to actively participate in the ceremony.
It can be said that this is a heartwarming performance befitting the children who are about to build a new family.
Ten Rose Ceremony
The Twelve Rose Ceremony is a vow ceremony using 12 roses. While this is not necessarily performed at public ceremonies, it is a common method for making vows.
The groom receives 12 roses along with vows prayed by the attending guests in advance. In this ceremony, the groom creates a bouquet, presents it to the bride along with his words, and concludes the marriage. After receiving the bouquet, the bride places a rose on the groom’s chest, symbolizing acceptance of marriage.
When parents attend as witnesses, they should convey feelings and words of encouragement to their dear children for their new life.
For example, if the bride’s parents have something to say to the groom, it is recommended to say something like, “Mr. △△, the groom of my daughter, is a precious girl we have raised as parents. Will you continue to take care of her? In good and bad times. Will you support us and overcome adversity? Such words or similar ones are recommended. Not only the bride and groom, but also the guests who hear this music will be moved by the warm feelings of parents thinking about their children.
Tips for Parents Attending Public Ceremonies
Here are some things that parents should be careful about when attending a public ceremony.
Introduction of a Fee-Based Inaugural Ceremony
As mentioned earlier, some weddings with public ceremonies introduce a fee system instead of gifts. In public ceremonies that require a fee, parents are often treated as guests. In this case, some say that parents do not need to participate in the ceremony or give a speech at the reception.
However, weddings are typically gatherings of people who care about the bride and groom. If parents wish to be involved, it is best to actively engage with the guests, even in a fee-based wedding.
Dealing with Relatives Unfamiliar with Public Ceremonies
While the freedom of public ceremonies is appealing, some polite or older guests may feel uncomfortable with this freedom. Especially if there are older relatives who are unfamiliar with public ceremonies, they may be surprised by the atmosphere. To prevent this, it is best to explain the contents of the ceremony to older guests and relatives in advance.
Finally
While public ceremonies are relatively free, it may be a good idea to leave everything to the children. It is not ideal for parents to be too present, but it is recommended to have a basic understanding of the content in advance. Parents are the only ones who can objectively point out any lack of consideration for guests.
Supervised by Top Wedding
Lyrics & Composition: Saori Yoshikawa (Kyoto Media Line)