A water blessing ceremony is a traditional Thai ritual that is often incorporated into modern Thai weddings. In this ceremony, water is used as a symbol of purification, blessing, and unity between the couple. During the water blessing ceremony, families and friends use a conch shell to pour water over the couple's hands while offering blessings, well wishes, and advice for a happy and prosperous marriage. It represents the cleansing away of past misfortunes, as well as the blessings of harmony in their new life together. A white thread is often looped between each headdress so as to join them, but ensure they remain independent. This symbolic looping signifies the couple’s future as one entity made up of two independent people.