Pascal pays the dot

The dot, or the bride price, is the amount the family charges a man for marrying their daughter. There is some theory that they have spent a lot of money raising her and educating her, so the man should pay an amount equal to her worth. All members of the family can request their part of the action, the aunts and uncles, grandparents. It can take a while for the money and goods to be earned.
Our friend Pascal completed earning the dot for his fiance, Gloria. The ceremony of the dot is the family's acceptance of his offering and their marriage. They also had a civil marriage and a ceremony in the LDS church.

Gloria's Grandmother awaits the appearance of her granddaughter. The yard is ready for a party with huge speakers, lights and decorations.

Pascal works with the missionaries so they have permission to come to the party!

Gloria's female relatives begin the festivities, with a traditional tribal dance. Everything is perfectly choregraphed

Grandpa shows the fabric that Pascal gave to Gloria's mother. Grandpa got a new suit. He reports that the dot has been fully paid.

Where is the bride? Pascal is lucky. Because the missionaries are in attendance and can't stay late, the family forgoes the usual attempt to get more money from him and brings out the bride.

The dancers lead the procession. All the women of the family join in.

Pascal awaits his bride with the escort couple -- not his parents or her parents, a couple chosen as a guide for the marriage ceremonies.

The feast begins!

The dancing continues!

Finally the bride and groom dance.

A very happy mother watches on (on the left.)

The missionaries get involved too! Not quite so colorful!