Drinking tea is an integral part of Chinese society. During special occasions, celebrations and especially weddings; the kneeling, bowing and offering of tea from the bride and groom shows their gratitude and respect for their family and elders. The tea ceremony is also an introduction to the new family union as well as a social validation and blessing of the marriage. The family members in return bring gifts, jewelery, red pockets and words of wisdom for the newly married.
The tea ceremony is what I look forward to most at Chinese weddings. I love the intimacy and the meaning of presenting tea to your elders. While what would appear as a formality, it is often where different generations interact most on a wedding day. The exchange is filled with happiness, colour, love and laughter. Dressed in their favourite cheongsams, I can see how excited all the aunties are with their gold bracelets and jade stones, passed on from generation to generation. I feel lucky to have the opportunity to capture these moments for not just the bride and groom, but the extended family because I know how important it is to them.
Featured in this "In Focus" post are weddings of Jenny+Jimmy (first half) and Chieko+Raphael (second half, when the candies appear)
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