In some rural areas in the olden times, it was not necessary to have a feast. The wedding ceremony was very simple. The lovers could merely inform their parents. The man could present a sum of money to the girl's parents as a manner of paying respect to her ancestral spirits (phi pu ya). Then the man would find an auspicious time to move into the woman's house, bringing along such possessions as a sword and clothing. This act is called "ao phua ao mia". So, marriage is considered a family matter and it needs no formality or grand reception. The big feast and complexity could be arranged if the people involved are of a wealthy family or a high rank or status. In this case the ceremony could be very elaborate, which also means a huge expense.