Celebrating Diversity // The Chinese Tea Ceremony

Celebrating Diversity - Wedding Day Traditions

Every culture has it's own wedding day traditions to ensure that the bride and groom find eternal happiness, from carrying something blue in a western wedding, to the gifting of floral garlands between husband and wife after the initial vows have been exchanged in an Indian ceremony. As wedding photographers we are truly blessed to play a role in these incredible traditions.

As part of our celebration of diversity at de lumière photography we are showcasing some of our favourite wedding day traditions.

The Chinese Tea Ceremony

A Chinese wedding day is stepped in tradition.

It is tradition for the bride to wear a red dress, called a qipao, while the groom has a couple of options including a Tang Suit. In Chinese culture, red symbolises happiness, prosperity and good luck.

Traditionally Chinese marriages were arranged, so the bride and groom met for the first time on their wedding days.

On entry to the bride's house the groom is blocked by the bridesmaids at the front door, where he and his groomsmen undergo a series of trials and games to prove his worth to the bride's family. The bridesmaids only let him enter the house once they have deemed him worthy.

Both families are formally introduced during a Tea Ceremony and together they drink Tsao Chün, a Chinese tea.

After the Tsao Chün tea has been finished, the couple receive lai see, a lucky red envelope, given by the family that is filled with money and is followed by the giving of gifts. The candles represent good luck on the couple’s first night as husband and wife. A feast is served at the end of the wedding ceremonies.

We're de lumière photography

Our calling is to tell your unique love story through vibrant and light-filled images. Treasure them as a true reflection of your special day. While you get lost in the moment, we work our magic with candid shots that capture the snippets of the day you’ll be talking about in years to come. Letting the day unfold is our special ingredient. We’re based in Sydney, but love working with couples in all corners of Australia and overseas. We'd love to share your journey too!

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