China, battling low birth rates and high costs, encourages frugal nuptials

YOUNG couples in China planning “simple” weddings, rather than traditional banquets with hundreds of guests, was one of the top hits online after an article urging more frugal nuptials was published by the government body in charge of women’s rights.

The article by the All China Women’s Federation, featured on Chinese search engine Baidu’s “hot list” yesterday, said couples were exhausted by the expense and time required for big weddings.Changes include shrugging off rituals such as renting luxury cars, fancy photographers and souvenirs for the guests, and instead opting for a small-scale party for family and close friends.