Meeting (2) Flow of the day of the meeting

Flow of the day - Meeting Dinner

On the day of the meeting, it is most important that both families meet in a relaxed mood. The following is a typical progression of a meeting. It is acceptable to omit parts of the meeting depending on the venue and members attending, but it is easier to prepare and be prepared if you know the overall flow of the meeting.

Gathering at the venue and greeting

• We will meet somewhat later than the designated time. It is a good idea to inform the meeting place in advance, such as the station or the entrance of the venue.
• In many cases, before being ushered to their seats by the venue staff, the fathers or representatives of both families give a greeting such as "Thank you for coming today.
• It is a good idea to allow time for the bride and groom to introduce their parents to each other and for all participants to briefly introduce themselves to each other to create a relaxed atmosphere. Nowadays, the bride and groom may be introduced by the "Bookmarks for Face-to-Face MeetingsWe often prepare a "Mere Old Man" and proceed with the conversation in a friendly manner while checking each other's books.

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2. unveiling of engagement gifts and exchange of returns

• After the greeting, there will be an opportunity to exchange engagement rings or engagement gifts (whether or not this is done as a courtesy depends on prior arrangements). (Whether this is done as a courtesy or not depends on prior arrangements.
• If there is a "return gift" (e.g., watches, ties, accessories, etc.), it is a token of appreciation from the bride and groom or their families.

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3. toast and start of meal

• Once everyone is seated, a toast is made. Usually, the father of the groom or the oldest person on the host's side gives the toast.
• A course or kaiseki meal will be served, and guests will have time to enjoy the food and chat. Seasonal dishes and the atmospheric view of the venue are also topics of conversation.

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4. conversation time and pleasantries

• This is a time to naturally talk about both families over a meal and share information about each other's family structure, hobbies, and hopes for future weddings.
• It is easier to get the ball rolling if the bride and groom discuss in advance who will lead the discussion and what topics they will discuss.

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5. commemorative photo

• In between conversations and between dishes, commemorative photos will be taken with each other and the entire family. Prepare your camera/phone in advance.
• You may consider arranging for a professional photographer if you can ask the venue staff to do so.

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6. closing remarks and closing

• After the meal, closing remarks are made. It is common for the fathers of both families or the bride and groom to say thank you.
• We conclude the meeting by thanking everyone for their hard work and saying, "We look forward to working with you in the future.

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advice of a point (advice that may be helpful to some people)

• It is smooth if you decide on a facilitator (don't miss the timing of greetings, toasts, commemorative photos, etc.)
• Since this is the day that will remain in the photo, make sure your clothes and attire are clean.
• Prepare a few topics of conversation starters (each other's family hobbies, jobs, favorite activities, etc.) in advance.

Tsukiji Jisaku's Meeting Plan

dinner meeting (or lunch, etc.) for two or more people