The "Tong Mun" or engagement ring will be presented to the bride at a ceremony called a "Phitee Mun," which normally takes place at the bride’s parent’s home. This is mainly attended by family members and shows acceptance into the family. You and your prospective bride are now viewed as a "Koo Mun" which literally means "tied or joined couple," (engaged party). Ever seen a Westerner in Thailand with loads of string tired around his wrists? He partook in a "Bai Sri Soo Kwan" or engagement ceremony. The engagement ceremony concludes with each guest tying a string around the wrist of the bride and that of the groom, while giving the married couple their blessings, followed by the placing of a garland of flowers around the couple’s necks. This is followed by the “Koo Mun,” or the actual wedding ceremony a few weeks later with the presentation of the dowry.