Buddhist Wedding Wedding Checklist

Consult Astrologer for Auspicious Date

Consult a Buddhist astrologer or senior monk to select an auspicious wedding date and time.

Invite Monks for Blessing Ceremony

Contact a local temple to invite an odd number of monks (3, 5, 7, or 9) for the ceremony.

Arrange Sai Sin (Sacred Thread)

Obtain blessed Sai Sin thread from a temple for the ceremony.

Prepare Sangha Dana Offerings

Assemble offering sets: food trays, flowers, candles, incense, and optionally monks' requisites.

Order Khan Maak Betrothal Trays

Purchase or commission ornate betrothal trays for the groom's procession (odd number).

Book Ceremony and Reception Venue

Reserve a venue suitable for both the monk blessing ceremony and the reception.

Order Traditional Wedding Attire

Purchase or commission traditional Thai silk, Sri Lankan, or culture-specific wedding attire.

Prepare Guest Etiquette Guide

Create a brief guide for guests covering temple etiquette: removing shoes, modest dress, not pointing feet toward monks or Buddha images, and that women should not touch monks.

Confirm Sai Monkhon (Head Circles)

Obtain or borrow Sai Monkhon (linked ceremonial head circles) from the temple and confirm they are blessed and ready.

Set Up Buddha Altar

Arrange the Buddha image, candles, incense, and flowers at the ceremony location.

Prepare Lustral Water (Nam Mon)

Monks bless the water for the Rod Nam Sang ceremony. Prepare the conch shell and basin.

Prepare Alms Food for Tak Bat

Have freshly prepared food ready for the early-morning alms offering.

Confirm Conch Shell and Water Basin

Ensure the conch shell for water pouring and the decorative basin are set up.

Set Up Khan Maak Gates

Arrange the gold chain or ribbon gates for the groom's procession and brief the gatekeepers on their roles.