The Banzai Toast in Hawaii

I love the fun celebration items that couples include in their weddings. Nothing raises the energy more than the hearty, happy and bold wishes of "Banzai" which is roughly translated as "Hurrah" and "Ten Thousand Years!".

In Hawaii, the term has taken on new meaning amongst the Japanese American community. It is used as a toast at celebratory events, particularly weddings. In this context, the Banzai is given twice - the first, "Shinro shimpu, banzai!" means "long life and happiness to the bride and groom." The second banzai is: "Raihin shokun, banzai!" meaning "Long life and happiness to all the guests!" After each toast, participants shout the word "banzai" three times in unison, raising their glasses each time, and drinking after the third.*

The idea of providing sake favor cups on the table would be a neat way to add to the toast. The cups can provide color decor support, generate conversation, function as the sake toast vessel and then be taken home as an memento.





http://www.justforweddings.net/Blue-Bamboo-Sake-Cup-Favors-Set-of-12_i1180
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_thousand_years*
http://jcch.com/japanese-traditions.asp

Ceremony Song that Feels Right!

Inspiration for weddings can be found all around us. Last night, my husband was surfing random popular YOUTUBE videos and came across this gem.

It totally has the right celebratory feeling for a ceremony prelude or processional. While it would be wonderful to have Steven Sharp Nelson play (x's 8), it would also work successfully as a download on an IPOD. Check it out for yourself and see if it inspires......,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ry4BzonlVlw