STORY: Why young Chinese streamline, personalize wedding ceremonies
SHOOTING TIME: recent footage
DATELINE: April 5, 2024
LENGTH: 0:01:43
LOCATION: CHONGQING, China
CATEGORY: CULTURE

SHOTLIST:
1. various of newlyweds
2. SOUNDBITE (Chinese): JIAN LILI, Official of civil affairs administration center of Liangjiang New Area

STORYLINE:

As Gen Z and those born after 2000 gradually enter into marriage, the styles of weddings among young people have grown increasingly diverse in recent years.

In contrast to the traditional grand and ceremonious weddings with intricate rituals, many young couples now gravitate toward cost-effective, experiential and simplified weddings. 

And some would integrate innovative and unique ideas into their wedding ceremonies, prioritizing meaningful elements over extravagant ones.

SOUNDBITE (Chinese): JIAN LILI, Official of civil affairs administration center of Liangjiang New Area, Chongqing
"Firstly, marriage registration now features a more diverse array of personalized elements. Many newlyweds, on the day of marriage registration, dress up carefully, bring various props, and wear beautiful traditional wedding dresses and formal attire, enhancing the sense of ceremony in the procedure."
Secondly, the process of registering for marriage is a unique and intimate moment for the couple, filled with their own romantic essence. The emotions of that day are unparalleled and perhaps unforgettable for a lifetime. Many couples also invite their parents or close friends to witness this special moment and capture the beautiful memories."
Thirdly, the couples' emotional expression becomes more enriched. Many couples choose to register their marriage at our park-style marriage registration institution. In the warm, atmospheric, and emotionally charged public space, their sense of ceremony and emotional expression are stronger and more intimate."

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Chongqing, China.
(XHTV)