I can't believe they go to such great lengths for a wedding ceremony. I understand traditions and things like that , but I would definitely try and get out of something like this. It seems as though it is more of an event and not about the wedding itself.
You're absolutely right. My own opinion is that its a lot about show and not losing face which is a huge deal in Thailand and something that takes a lot of getting to grips with! It's just their way but as a foreigner, difficult to go along with.
I think the losing face thing is huge in most customs and it has created a big business out of nothing. i know we have customs here which cost the bride and groom a small fortune and actually stops them for years before they can get married.