In the olden days, Korean weddings meant everyone would gather to celebrate something called the Paebaek ceremony where the groom’s family formally accepts the bride into their home. Traditionally, Korean marriages symbolized the union between the two households. The modern adaptation includes the bride’s family welcoming the groom as well. The main parts of the ritual are the bows, the toast and the blessings.

Exchange bows.

The bride and groom bows to the parents and relatives as a sign of reverence and devotion to their new family.

Serve the tea.

After each bowing, the couple will serve tea (or rice wine) to each set of elders.

Offer advice and blessings.

The elders, in return, offer words of wisdom and blessings. They may even give them envelopes with money.

Throw the dates and chestnuts.

Then the elders will throw dates and chestnuts for the bride and groom to catch in an apron which symbolize the number of healthy offspring the couple will have. Dates represent sons and chestnuts symbolize daughters.

Piggyback the bride.

Finally, the groom piggybacks his bride on his back around the table twice as a show of strength. Mothers are often also piggybacked.

There is no set rule to how Paebaek is now held. We help you customize it to fit your family and needs. For the purpose of serving our diverse clients, we make sure to blend the traditional Paebaek ceremony into the wedding of your dreams.