Michael & Catherine

Kyoto

John & Sarah

Groom's Name	Michael
Bride's Name	Catherine
Nationality	America
Location	Kyoto
Wedding Date	August 28, 2024

Included Items

Why We Chose a Shinto Ceremony? (or Photo Shoot?)

We were drawn to Japanese traditional culture and spirituality. Impressed by the solemnity of shrines, we wanted to incorporate that into our wedding. We felt the meaningful Shinto rituals were perfect for celebrating the start of our new life.
How was your experience during the preparation stage?

It was very smooth, thanks to Ms. Inoue's kind and attentive support. Although communication was primarily via email, her precise advice was incredibly helpful. We appreciated her prompt responses despite the time difference, which made us feel close despite the physical distance.
How was your experience on the day of the Shinto ceremony (or photo shoot)?

It was a wonderful experience. From dressing and makeup to the shrine ceremony and photo shoot, everything was impressive. Thanks to the staff's careful guidance, we enjoyed the ceremony despite our nervousness. We were also impressed by the photographer's skill.
What impressed you about the Shinto wedding ceremony rituals? (or photo shoot)?

The solemnity of the priest's prayer and the san-san-kudo ritual were particularly impressive. Offering prayers together during the tamagushi ceremony was a profound moment, making us feel the start of our new life. We deeply felt the richness of Japanese traditional culture.
How was the staff support and the process of choosing your attire?

We're grateful for the staff's attentive support. We chose our attire from images sent via email, and thanks to the expert staff's precise advice, we made the perfect choice. The detailed explanations about traditional Japanese attire were also impressive.

Advice for Couples Considering a Shinto Wedding

For couples considering a Shinto wedding, we'd like to offer some advice based on our experience. First, we recommend learning about Japanese culture and traditions. Understanding the meaning behind the rituals will make your experience more profound and meaningful. It's important to allow plenty of time for preparation. Due to time differences and language barriers, communication may take longer than expected. When choosing your attire, use photos and videos to make careful decisions. Don't forget to consider comfort and ease of movement. Lastly, don't get too caught up in small details. The most important thing is to enjoy this special experience. Embrace the beautiful Japanese traditions and truly celebrate the beginning of your new chapter in life.