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Flora Fadzai Sibanda, [email protected] 

AH, weddings! An occasion where joy dances in the air and love finds its perfect symphony. Picture this: radiant smiles painted across the faces of the bride and groom, their laughter ringing like music that even the stoniest heart can’t resist swaying to. And oh, the food — an exquisite culinary journey carefully curated by the bride, earning rapturous praise from all who taste it.

But wait, there’s more! Masters of ceremonies have ingeniously introduced an enthralling twist to wedding celebrations — the enchanting realm of wedding games. These games are not mere amusements; they carry profound meanings, imparting invaluable lessons to the newlyweds and their esteemed guests.

One of the most beloved games is the “Shoe Game,” which has garnered popularity in recent years. The couple sits, facing each other, holding one of each other’s shoes. The master of ceremonies poses insightful questions, and in unison, they raise the shoe belonging to the partner who fits the description best. It’s a delightful reminder that perfection isn’t the goal; rather, love is about embracing imperfections and choosing to journey through life together, hand in hand.

Then there’s the intriguing “Do You Know Your Partner” game, where the groom is blindfolded and asked to identify his bride by feeling the hands of women present. It may raise eyebrows, but fear not, for its intention is far from scandalous. This playful exercise teaches the couple the art of tolerance and understanding, highlighting that we all make mistakes and must learn to forgive and cherish each other’s uniqueness.

Now, for the guests’ delight, there’s the “Do You Know Your Bride and Groom” game, an intimate affair tailored for smaller gatherings. Tables receive questionnaires, where guests reveal their knowledge of the couple. It’s a delightful way to ascertain if the invitees truly understand and cherish the couple, strengthening the bonds of friendship and intimacy.

Ah, but here comes an age-old custom — “Playing House” — where the bride and groom enact a scene of domestic bliss, revealing how they’ll care for each other in their new life together. Amid smiles and laughter, it symbolises the husband’s role as a provider and the wife’s nurturing nature. Some may question its relevance, but traditions hold a special place in culture, and this charming spectacle seeks to honour those values.

Saturday Chronicle spoke to a few people just to hear how they view most of these games. Peggy Mlauzi a youth said they were exciting because not only did they entertain guests but also had a way of teaching even couples, who are not yet married, a few things.

She said although they are entertaining she feels some of them should not be played on the wedding day.

On the other hand, gogo MaDube fears that modern times may lead to hasty decisions yet she recognises the significance of understanding one’s partner deeply. Steve Ndlovu says he embraces these games wholeheartedly as they bring joy to couples.

@flora_sibanda