Sri Lanka holds first wedding exhibition since COVID-19 outbreak

In front of the jewelry counter, the supplier tirelessly helped newcomers to choose their jewelry.

At a wedding hairstyle and beauty counter, there was a mannequin in a bridal dress wearing an attractive face mask.

"This bridal mask was specially designed for the bride after the outbreak of the epidemic," Sri Lanka's famous hairstylist Ramzi Rahaman told reporters. "I am very keen on designing masks. Masks have become a fashion statement," he added.

There were some large screens at the exhibition showing colorful weddings in various styles. A manager who participated in the wedding boutique exhibition said that an Indian-style wedding in Sri Lanka would cost between 3 million and 6 million rupees (about 16,000 U.S. dollars to 32,300 dollars), while a grand Sri Lankan-style wedding will cost at least 2 million rupees (10,765 dollars).

The manager said that Indian-style weddings are ordered by rich Indians who come down from India with hundreds of guests. Sri Lankans, on the other hand, prefer their own local style, he added.

Most stalls at the exhibition displayed attractive 25 percent discount signs. Ajantha Wijesundara, manager of Raja Jewelers, said customers who place an order at the exhibition will get a discount of 20 to 25 percent. But if the order is placed after the two-day exhibition, the discount will be reduced to 10 percent to 15 percent.

Because of this, locals who are interested in planning a wedding come prepared to pay up.

"I will gather information today, go home and discuss with my fiance and mother, and maybe come to sign the contract tomorrow before the exhibition closes," Ranjani said.