When Fanny Wang and her Mr. Right stepped into the marriage registration office in Putuo District, both believed it would be the most important and happiest day of their lives, following a marathon five-year courtship.

However, their excitement didn't last long as they had to pay through their noses for the "package service."

The couple spent more than 500 yuan (US$60) for the service, including a physical examination for 200 yuan, five photos of the "wedding oath ceremony" at 120 yuan, a certificate cover for 36 yuan and a pile of "useless" ads from local wedding service companies.

According to the Shanghai Civil Affairs Bureau, only two services in the registration process are mandatory: the marriage certificate and the physical examination. The certificate costs 9 yuan and the fee for the physical check is 141 yuan, both in line with the Shanghai Price Bureau's standard.

"It was not the money but the feeling of being cheated that made it very uncomfortable," said Wang. "The photo prints were from a digital camera, which can't be so costly. Besides, the poor quality of the cover didn't do justice to the price."

The duo is not alone. Many local couples who registered for marriage in the city's other districts have also complained.

Traditionally, Chinese weddings are split into two parts. The issuing of a marriage certificate proves a couple is legally married, while a banquet for friends and family -- usually months after the certificate is issued -- is considered the "real" wedding.

"The package service is meant to make the marriage registration more convenient and memorable but apart from the two mandatory services, the other things are optional," said Zhou Jixiang of the civil affairs bureau.

However, a bride named Tong who registered in Yangpu District, complained, "Nobody told us which service was optional in advance. They just asked us to pay."

The city introduced an oath-taking ceremony last September to make the marriage registration process a pleasant affair.

During the new ceremony, hosted by government officials, couples are asked questions such as if they are marrying of their own accord and if they will take care of each other.

"The oath-taking was probably intended to make the whole process a bit sacred but the high charge for photos taken at the ceremony makes it look like it was profit-oriented," said Wang, still smarting.

(eastday.com June 1, 2003)