THOUSANDS of well-wishers flocked to the first wedding this century at Wong Tai Sin Temple, while elsewhere more than 130 couples got married on the most auspicious day of the year yesterday.
Every step taken by Kenji Tam Kit-chun, 30, and his bride Wing Ho Man-pui, 21, dressed in red embroidered gown and cheongsam, attracted hundreds of camera flashes from those keen to record the historic wedding.
Among them were officers from the Hong Kong Tourist Association which has been highlighting the temple as one of the hottest tourist spots in the SAR. More than 30 police officers made sure public enthusiasm did not spoil the ceremony.
The new Mrs Tam discovered the physical as well as emotional trials undergone by thousands of women before her: 'The crown is too heavy. I was worried it would fall off when I bowed during the ceremony.' Her mother, also dressed in red, could not hide her delight throughout the ceremony. 'I had a white wedding 30 years ago and so did my older daughters. But my youngest chose a traditional one. I'm thrilled that thousands came to share my happiness.
' Four marriage registries extended their working hours to help 133 couples tie the knot yesterday, the most auspicious day for weddings according to the Chinese almanac.