The Japanese are known for their advances in technology and their integration of robots into the home and office area. However, when a couple recently decided to be married by a robot, they made online news all over the world. The four-foot high I-Fairy was the official conductor of the wedding ceremony, complete with pigtails, a wreath of flowers on her head and flashing eyes. She was manufactured by Kokoro Co and costs a cool 6.3 million yen (or about $68 000).

I-Fairy spoke to the couple in her characteristic nasal monotone as a technician sat some metres away and entered commands into a computer. She has various pre-programmed movements and sounds, which she can repeat at appropriate times. Her arms are also able to move so that her phrases are given extra emphasis by her gestures (just as when humans speak and move their hands at the same time).

While this may not be every couple’s idea of a romantic novelty, it certainly warrants thinking about for couples that want a completely neutral wedding officiant performing their ceremony. It is also guaranteed to ensure that this wedding will be on the tongues of the guests for years to come.

This article was posted by Celebration.co.za - South Africa Wedding Guide.