Singapore - A recent post on the online forum AskSingapore has sparked a debate about the commercialization of weddings in Singapore. A bridesmaid shared her experience, highlighting the increasing costs and expectations associated with being a bridesmaid in modern-day weddings.
The woman described participating in a traditional "gate crashing" game, where the groom and his groomsmen have to perform tasks or pay a fee to enter the bride's home. She and the other bridesmaids were expected to be present from as early as 5 AM to participate in the game. Later in the day, they assisted with wedding preparations, including decorating the venue, registering guests, and collecting gifts.
However, the bridesmaid expressed disappointment with several aspects of her experience. Firstly, she revealed that the money collected during the gate crashing game was taken away by the couple at the end of the morning session, despite the belief that bridesmaids typically get to keep their share of the money. Secondly, she pointed out that bridesmaids were expected to cover the cost of their dresses. Finally, she mentioned that the total amount of money given to all the bridesmaids was only S$100, which she felt was insufficient to cover her expenses.
The bridesmaid explained that she had only placed S$20 to S$30 in the dinner gift envelopes, stating, "If I had received more from the couple, I would have returned the favor by putting in more."
Her post has generated discussion among netizens, with many expressing sympathy for her situation and sharing similar experiences. Some have argued that the traditional concept of bridesmaids helping the bride has evolved into a more commercialized and costly affair. Others have defended the couple's actions, suggesting that the bridesmaid's expectations were unrealistic.
This incident has highlighted the growing trend of commercialization in weddings, where traditions are often adapted to accommodate modern expectations and can sometimes lead to financial burdens for participants. It has also sparked a broader conversation about the changing dynamics of friendships and the expectations placed on wedding party members.
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