A CELEBRATION ROOTED IN LAO TRADITION

We’re so excited to share our wedding day with you — and even more honored to celebrate it through the rich and meaningful traditions of a Lao wedding.

ABOUT THE CEREMONY

The Lao wedding ceremony, called the ‘Baci’ is a gathering that brings together family and friends to offer blessings, good wishes, and love. It is centered around a beautifully decorated centerpiece made of flowers, banana leaves, and white cotton strings, which symbolize purity and connection.

THE GROOM’S PROCESSION

The ceremony will start with the groom’s entrance — where Jacob will be accompanied by his family and groomsmen. The procession carries gifts as offerings to symbolize respect, prosperity, and good will.

THE PATH THROUGH THE GATES

Before Jacob can reach Melissa, he must pass through a series of symbolic gates — represented by silver or gold sashes held across the path by family and bridesmaids. These are known as ‘doors’ and represent the transition between two families and the challenges of winning a bride. At each gate, Jacob must negotiate through playful bargaining and bribes. The bridesmaids may then ‘open the gate’ and let Jacob continue.

THE CEREMONIAL STRINGS

During the Baci, loved ones will tie the strings around Melissa and Jacob’s wrists while offering kind words and prayers for health, happiness, and harmony.

We invite you all to come see us during cocktail hour to tie us your wishes!

Learn Lao

‘HELLO’ — SABAIDEE

‘YUMMY/DELICIOUS’ — SAP LAI!

‘CHEERS'!’ — THUM!

‘THANK YOU’ — KHOP JAI

‘I LOVE YOU’ — KHOI HAK CHAO