The Nuptial Series (xiv) - Dowry Discussion

It is drawing closer to our Big Day; it is happening in a matter of months. Now we are left with gowns selection, wedding decor confirmation, food tasting, wedding bands shopping, wedding shoes selection, Guo Da Li (exchange of betrothal gifts and dowry), discussion with the Sisters (bridesmaids) and sending out the formal invites. It seems we have things under control for now.

So, both families finally sat down for a semi-cosy lunch at Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant to enjoy a sumptuous dimsum meal before getting into the formalities.  It was also the first time his mom met my mom, so there were some introduction as well as ice-breakers to get the two parents better-acquainted.

After that, we began to delve into the discussions of dowry and requirements.  Coming from traditional families, we wanted to understand if there were anything between the our two dialect groups that required to be performed, in terms of gifts, customs or "rules".

Photosource: http://www.publishyourarticles.net/knowledge-hub/essay/how-to-write-an-essayarticle-on-dowry-system-in-india/626/

Then we also discussed the activities and requirements for the Guo Da Li (Betrothal gift exchange) ceremony, what both families needed to buy and prepare.

Finally, we moved on to discussing what was to be done on the actual wedding day.

We were fortunate that both parents were not too traditional or superstitious, therefore we eliminated some tedious pre-wedding steps.

You might need to check for your dialect group or religion, are there any rituals to be practiced, i.e. hair combing ceremony for actual day, money to "buy pants and shoes" for groom and groom's mother, etc. A simple Google search, or checking with relatives / friends who'd gotten married in the past few years ought to get these questions settled.

For the rest of the Nuptial Series:
Part (i)  - The Proposal
Part (ii) - Solemnisation procedure
Part (iii) - Solemnisation venues
Part (iv) - Finding the right photography studios
Part (v) -  Hunting for the suits and gowns
Part (vi) - Bespoke (tailored gown) - Review on Kelly's Bridal
Part (vii) - Pre-wedding photoshoot in Vancouver, Canada
Part (viii) - Pre-wedding photoshoot in Singapore - Loov Production

Part (ix) - Frustrations and Decisions
Part (x) - Hunting for the Suits and Gowns (Part II)
Part (xi) - Wedding Dinner Banquet Venues

Part (xii) - Decorating the Wedding Banquet Ballrooms
Part (xiii) - Guest Lists and Inviting the Guests