A Traditional Balinese Wedding with Colorful Details

Ayu Thari and Angga have actually known each other for years, but their love story just began last April in Bali. "At first, we didn't really try to get to know one another as he lived in San Francisco while I lived in Jakarta. But after meeting again last year, without a second thought, Angga and I knew that we were meant for each other," shared Ayu Thari.

Their budding relationship escalated quickly. They had only been dating for a month when Angga proposed to Ayu Thari. One day, the pair were enjoying sunset by the beach in Tabanan, Bali. "To my surprise, he suddenly kneeled, took out a ring, and proposed to me. I was shocked beyond words, yet it would've been impossible for me to say no. After all, I had already made my decision long before he proposed," recalled Ayu Thari. "My friends were surprised and asked me whether I was really sure. But when I met Angga, I just knew that he was the one," she added.

The couple decided to preserve their cultural heritage through a two-day traditional Balinese celebration. "On the first day, I was 'taken' from my home and brought to Denpasar, home to Angga's family. We had our wedding ceremony there on the next day," reminisced Ayu Thari.

The couple looked stunning throughout the entire celebration, clad in traditional Balinese wedding attires. Ayu Thari was wrapped in vibrant prada garments, complete with a traditional headpiece made of real gold. "It weighed around 3 kilograms and I had to wear it for two days in a row," she recalled. Meanwhile, the groom wore a traditional suit with matching prada textiles. "Angga's parents wore the same prada garments on their wedding day. They taught us how to wear and care for them, so we can pass them down as family heirlooms as well," she said.

Surprisingly, Ayu Thari and Angga's festive celebration did not involve many wedding vendors. "Everything was mostly done by our extended family. Interestingly, some of my relatives met their partners during our wedding, and they're planning to get married soon!" shared the bride. Looking back on her own experience, she has a few tips to share for future brides, "Good communication between both families is very important. Aside from that, always stick to your budget. Challenges may come but focus on the goal ahead. In the end, just do your best and let God do the rest."