This was the second wedding I have actually ever been to. The first was my uncle’s when I was a bridesmaid and it wasn’t anything like this. It was winter in England and in all the wedding photos we’re holding umbrellas and grinning with rosy cheeks.
This wedding was very different. It was a traditional Balinese wedding ceremony in Padangbai which I was invited to when I was doing some filming in the village. Packed into a tiny courtyard, we sat on benches and plastic chairs, whilst ladies handed out Coca Colas and little Balinese cakes. The men and women mostly sat in their own groups, sipping their fizzy drinks through a straw and chatting to each other.
The men wore traditional Balinese dress and the women wore colourful garments embellished with details. Some adorable little newborn puppies rolled around under one lady’s chair and children ran amuck laughing and giggling. It was cramped and hot and there wasn’t much order to where anyone was sitting, but like many weddings around the world, we sat there for a long time waiting for the bride.
When she turned up she was wearing a glittering golden headdress and heavy make-up, with a strapless, colourful dress made out of thick fabric. It was so hot that day, the fan was a very good idea….
Hey Victoria
I was so glad I found your website which was very helpful in giving me information about a traditional wedding ceremony in Bali. I have just been invited to one whilst my hubby and I are in Bali in July so I thought it was a good idea to try and find out what to expect. Can you tell me if we are expected to give a particular gift or what the normal procedure is? Your photos are wonderful and I will make sure I have a look at some more of your travels. I am guessing you have already been to Australia?? I live in Melbourne. I would appreciate any more information you could give me. Enjoy your future travels and thanks again.
Take care,
Sue, Melbourne – Australia
Hi Sue,
I didn’t take any special presents or particular gifts. One thing I would say is make sure your arms and legs are appropriately covered because I remember feeling like I should have had my arms covered more. It was a very simple affair, but this was quite a poor village. And yes, I’ve been to Melbourne a couple of times on my travels and loved it!