CHRISTINE + PATRICK WEDDING

I am fortunate enough to work with many amazing clients. One recent wedding couple that I had the honor of photographing was Christine and Patrick…the bride…Chinese…the groom…Irish. Although their wedding was two months ago, I wanted to share the differences, yet traditions, that make this a “small” world.

I love it when I’m afforded the opportunity to encounter a new experience that leaves me feeling warm and fuzzy all over. This particular wedding was such an experience. Unlike many weddings, this couple made sure to incorporate special nuances, which embraced both of their cultures.

The day began with pre-ceremony photos at the couple’s home, where a Chinese tradition of the bride eating a special sweet soup to wish the newlyweds a hundred years of togetherness was served first by the bride’s grandmother, then the mother, to the bride. Another tradition…the bride was covered by a red umbrella, which is used to shield the bride, as the opening of the umbrella symbolizes the bride bringing many children to the groom's family.  Also in Chinese traditions, flowers and floral arrangements are symbols of happiness, joy, life and fertility. Again, the symbolism of red in Chinese culture is powerful, joyous and deep, so adding as many red flowers to the floral decorations of a Chinese wedding is important.  The only white-colored flowers that are accepted for use in Chinese wedding bouquets are white roses, as long as they are tied together with red or other colored ribbons or silks.

The ceremony was held at a gorgeous church in Rye Brook, NY, with magnificent stained glass windows, and ended with an Irish bag piper, who led the recessional out of the church.

Then on to the reception in Norwalk, CT, where a caricature of the couple with the traditional “double happiness” [Shuang Xi] symbol, which was drawn by a family member of the bride, was displayed…to a silk cloth used as the guestbook…to the traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony, which pays homage, and demonstrates respect and honor for family. All in all, it was a beautiful day and a wonderful evening!

Please enjoy some of their wedding photos:

Ciao, until next time...time...