Couples can choose a non-denominational service conducted by a Registrar of Marriages, a church ceremony or a traditional Buddhist ‘Poruwa’ ceremony. All the ceremonies are performed in accordance with British law and are legally recognised as binding. If you aren’t British we recommend you seek advice regarding the requirements of your marriage abroad.

Traditional Sri Lankan wedding ceremony: The traditional Buddhist wedding ceremony dates back to the third century BC and is conducted at 'Nakath' or auspicious times derived from the Bride and Groom’s horoscopes. Of the many traditional rituals associated with this wedding ceremony, those that take place on the ‘Poruwa’ – a wooden base decorated with flowers – are the most significant. A traditional wedding ceremony involves the following:

• Choosing of time and date for the ceremony: Traditionally the bride and the bridegroom set the wedding date with the assistance of an astrologer who will compare the couple’s horoscopes and will identify a specific time that is most auspicious for both.

• Arrival at location: the couple is escorted to the wedding location by drummers and Kandyan dancers and then to the ‘Poruwa’ - a beautifully decorated wooden ceremonial platform where the ceremony will take place.

• The `Poruwa’ ceremony: First is the offering of seven betel leaf bundles to the Gods with a request that protection is provided to the seven generations that originate from the marriage; exchanging of rings; bridegroom dresses the bride with a gold necklace.

• Chanting of blessings: Six girls bless your marriage with a beautiful 'Jayamangala Gatha' chant

• Exchanging of gifts: Gifts are exchanged between the couple

• Gold thread: While the chanting continues your small fingers are tied together with gold thread to symbolise the bond and unity. Holy water is poured over your fingers.

• Breaking of coconut: As you step down from the 'Poruwa', a coconut is broken as a symbolic gesture to drive away evil spirits

• Registration: The registration process overseen by a government Registrar of Marriages and attested by two witnesses commences.

• Lighting of brass oil lamp: A brass oil lamp – one of the enduring images of Sri Lanka – is lit to signify the start of a bright new future together.

• Cutting of the cake: The final stage of the ceremony is the cutting of the wedding cake.

Civil Wedding: Some couples prefer a simple and private legal ceremony in a beautiful location. Local dancers and drummers can be arranged.

Special ceremonies: Aside from weddings, Red Dot is able to offer Renewal of Vows ceremonies and blessings. The procedures and requirements for both vary according to you denomination and we will be happy to offer further details on request.