Wedding speeches and blessings are very important at Japanese weddings. Family, friends, colleagues, and teachers all stand up at one point or another to wish the couple well. Traditionally, these speeches might be moralistic tales about matrimony's importance.
These have evolved into heartfelt messages of love from close friends and family. Usually the older the family member the longer they are tolerated to speak as they are respected for their wiseness.
If you married an Okinawan and if either of you have some memorable moments or some helpful tips for those about to take the "plunge" I would really like to read and share them.