A sedan chair is a seat with walls on the sides, in the back, a roof over the top and poles on both sides for people to lift her to the ceremony. Before the formal event, the husband and bride get an official marriage certificate from the government office. The ceremony itself is held in a hotel or restaurant where guests are invited to share a meal and be part of the festivities. The father walks the bride to the stage where she and her groom exchange rings and vows. After this, they will bow to their parents and give thanks for good parenting and support of the marriage. The couple also gives tea to the parents as a sign of respect. After the main event, the bride changes into a different dress. The dress is red like the one she wears in the previous ceremony, but is more fitted and longer. The newlyweds and their parents then go around to toast and meet everyone at the ceremony. Most guests give the couple money in red envelopes called “Hong bao”, but in the past, they would give food or jewelry. After the ceremony, it is typical for the married couple to leave together and go on a honeymoon.
Even as China becomes more progressive (or, in other words, more flexible with traditional social norms), marriage is still viewed as a fundamental part of life and adulthood. It is a union that is meant to connect the couple and their families in a very important way. Creating bonds and forming a network of people in one's life is vital in Chinese culture. There are historical reasons for the way weddings are celebrated.
