Chinese wedding in Paris

Some of you may know that in China they take photos first and then have the wedding. Terribly practical- it gets all the fuss out if the way and allows everyone to enjoy the day.

So, here in Paris, why be different?

I was taking a relaxing promenade in Central Paris, when I saw this couple on the "bridge of padlocks". For those of you who don't know, this footbridge over the Seine has a net side that permits padlocks to be attached. Street vendors will sell you one if you come unprepared. The idea is that 2 lovers write their names on the padlock, attach it to the bridge, and throw the keys into the river.

I suppose an archeologist in the distant future will wonder at the number of keys and I suspect propose the site of an ancient foundry. He could surely never guess the truth.

Neither, I suspect, do the couples guess that from time to time the gendarmerie come along and break off all the locks. It rather spoils the "eternity" idea of throwing away the key. Sensibly the French don't advertise this part of the "romance".

But presumably our Chinese couple are using the bridge for romantic reasons. The trouble is, it's November. At that is why the bride is wearing a black plastic anorak.

At last the photographer is ready and she bravely discards the coat. The wind had a bitter edge, and her wedding dress is backless. Still she smiles for the camera and a host of onlookers, including me, watch and admire her.

Hopefully the 2 photos attached will both arrive at the blog. Otherwise you will have to wait for the edit after I get home.

Cordialement
Terry

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