ianpassion: Ian and Nittie's Wedding in Thailand

With our Thai Traditional Dress 2013

Choosing a lifetime partner who will stand the test of time is one of the most important decisions a person will ever make.

Marriage is a pivotal moment in life. In one way or another, everything that follows is influenced by the person we choose to marry. Therefore, one of the greatest decisions every single person faces is choosing a lifelong spouse.

Our marriage is a gift from the Father. It became clear to us that we were meant for one another. This was confirmed through the peace He gave us, our shared passion, our common purpose, the acceptance and blessing of both our families, and, above all, our unconditional love for each other.

To solemnize our lifelong commitment, we scheduled two wedding ceremonies. The first was our traditional Thai wedding on March 22, 2013, in Khuan Kalong, Satun, and the second was our Christian wedding on April 8, 2013, in Hat Yai, Thailand.

Our traditional Thai wedding ceremony began with celebratory gunshots fired into the air, signaling the start of the festivities. Afterward, I joined the Khan Maak (ขันหมาก) procession, the traditional Thai wedding parade in which the groom, accompanied by family and friends, walks to the bride's home carrying ceremonial offerings and beautifully decorated trays. The procession began approximately 100 meters from Nittie's uncle's house and was filled with joy, music, and celebration.

When we arrived at Nittie's parents' house, we were welcomed by the loud crackling of strings of firecrackers, a traditional expression of celebration and good fortune. The vibrant sounds and festive atmosphere reflected the excitement of both families as they came together to celebrate our union.

Firecrackers at the gate

Nittie remained in her parents' room while I made my way toward her. According to Thai wedding tradition, I had to pass through ten symbolic gates, each guarded by family members or friends. At every gate, I was playfully asked to offer a small amount of money before being allowed to proceed. Along the way, there was even a young boy who insisted on shining my shoes before letting me continue. These joyful customs added laughter and excitement to the celebration.

After I had passed through the final gate and presented the customary gifts, Nittie was finally permitted to come out and join me. Together, we sat on a mat spread across the floor. Surrounding us were her parents, relatives, respected elders, and village leaders, all gathered to witness and celebrate our union.

A few minutes later, the village elder officiated the traditional wedding ceremony. He recited traditional Thai blessings and ceremonial words, most of which I did not understand at the time because they were spoken in Thai. The ceremony included several symbolic rituals, such as bowing before our parents as a sign of honor and gratitude, presenting gifts, and receiving their blessing for our marriage.

When the ceremony concluded, we went outside to welcome the many guests who had come to celebrate with us. We greeted each person with smiles and respectful bows, expressing our gratitude for their presence. It was truly a joyful day filled with delicious food, music, singing, and dancing that continued well past midnight.

One week later, after our traditional Thai wedding, we began preparing for our second wedding ceremony. Friends traveled from different parts of Thailand and the Philippines to help us and to witness one of the most significant days of our lives. Their love, encouragement, and willingness to serve made us feel deeply blessed and appreciated. Nittie's parents, relatives, and extended family also attended, making the celebration even more meaningful as our two families and cultures were united in love.

With the officiating minister

We were blessed by a special song dedicated by one of our friends, P-Ree. Now this song becomes our theme song. Check here. That song made me think:

Marriage is not like a stock market. We do not pick up an attractive marriage partner and hold on to it as long as it proves to be a good investment and then dump it for another when it starts to slump.

I believed that marriage is a lifetime commitment. It is a lifelong union in the one-flesh relationship regardless of each other limitations and weaknesses.

My Advice to Every Single Person

Do not rush into marriage if the person you hope to marry is not ready. A strong and lasting marriage begins with two people who are already secure in who they are. Those who make wonderful marriage partners do not need marriage to complete them—they are already complete in the Father's love.

Whether you are single or married, your worth never changes. Your value is not determined by your relationship status but by the unconditional love of the Father. Rest in His love, trust His timing, and wait patiently for the person He has prepared for you.

Our Journey Together

Now that we are married, we are on the lifelong journey of building our home upon unconditional love. We understand that our commitment will be tested through various seasons of life, but we also believe that, with the Father's guidance and strength, we will overcome every challenge that comes our way.

Marriage is not merely a destination but a lifelong covenant of growing together, serving one another, extending grace, and remaining faithful through every joy and every trial.

A Heart of Gratitude

To our families, relatives, and dear friends—and especially to my best friends, you know who you are, D and A—thank you for standing beside us and for encouraging and helping us throughout the preparation for our wedding.

Your kindness, generosity, prayers, and unwavering support made one of the most important days of our lives even more meaningful. Through your love, we experienced the Father's love in a very personal and tangible way.

You are more than friends; you are family. We are deeply grateful to have you walking with us on this journey of life.

May our Abba Father continue to pour out His abundant blessings upon you and your families, granting you His peace, joy, wisdom, and unfailing love for many years to come.