Men Chan Motita, 20, third-year student at SETEC University

“When it comes to my wedding, I want to follow Cambodian culture. I want my wedding to be simple and casual. My parents should be involved with planning the events, except for the reception – I’ll plan that. There’s no need to spend so profusely on the parties, as I need to start saving up for my marriage. I just want people to admire the fact that I’m going to be happy, without putting so much money into it. From my wedding, I want to look towards the future and things that deserve concern.”

Pich Naza, 19, student at Hun Sen Mittapheap High School

“Before I get married, I have to be well-prepared and the reception has to be unforgettable. I want to celebrate with a traditional wedding, with some slight differences during the evening reception. I want all the guests to acknowledge that the wedding is decent, well-done and comfortable. I do consider getting married to be the biggest event that will happen in my life; therefore, I have to do a good job of preparing the festivities, since I’ll remember the wedding for a lifetime.”

Hong Visal, 21, third-year student at International University

“I want to get married in a five-star hotel. I want the celebrations to be elegant and luxurious. I want my wedding to be unforgettable, because marriage is the most important thing in my life. Everyone who attends should enjoy feelings of warmth and enjoy themselves. I want my parents to take pride and honour in the wedding, since they’ve also been looking forward to it my whole life. I want all my relatives to be proud of my parents, too, and this is the best way I can show fondness to my family.”

Nguon Sokna, 22, second-year student at Institute of Foreign Languages

“I’m not partial towards the old-fashioned way of getting married. I really hate how you have to go through the motions of reserving a restaurant, and waiting forever for food to come around. I hope that by the time I’m married, I’ll own a nice home with a garden and pool. I want to have my reception there, because I think it’ll be much more dynamic and fun. Also, at night, the scenery can be much more romantic. I can have the garden decorated with flowers, and the guests can speak with one another in an intimate setting.”

May Sokhour, 21, fourth-year student at Royal University of Agriculture

“I prefer something ordinary. In the future, I want my own farm – so that would be the perfect setting for my wedding. Cities are crowded and noisy, so I’m looking forward to the natural and tranquil surroundings of rural Cambodia. Also, in the city, people feel compelled to get very dressed up and wear a lot of jewellery. However, out in the provinces, people can dress down and not have to worry so much about their appearances – instead, they can just enjoy the celebration. It will be truly comfortable.”