Taipei Unveils Festive Wedding Backdrops Ahead of Qixi Festival

Taipei's district civil affairs offices are embracing the upcoming Qixi Festival, also known as Chinese Valentine's Day, by introducing vibrant new backdrops for wedding registration photos. This initiative aims to replace the controversial designs from last year, which drew criticism for their somber appearance.

Last year, city councilors questioned the suitability of the existing wedding photo backdrops, likening them to funeral parlors. In response, the Department of Civil Affairs allocated over NT$3 million (approximately $94,000 USD) to design and install new, more festive decorations. These updated backdrops are now being progressively set up across various district offices.

While the new designs are intended to enhance the celebratory mood for couples registering their marriages, some wedding photography businesses and newlyweds have recently expressed mixed reactions on social media. The new backdrops feature elements like heart-shaped chips in Neihu and designs reminiscent of the popular Taiwanese drama 'Love Story of Kangxi' in Wanhua, aiming for a more romantic and engaging aesthetic.