Wedding Blog

Hi Everybody!

When I posted my programs awhile back, some of you were interested in reading about the various cultural stuff we’d included in them. First comes the intro and the Chinese traditions. Next time, I’ll post the Jewish traditions. Hope this helps some of you!

A Cultural Celebration
Our cultures are important parts of who we are as individuals and as a couple. It was very important to both of us to include symbolic Jewish and Chinese traditions in our wedding ceremony and reception. In the following pages, you will find explanations of these traditions.

Chinese Traditions
Earlier in the day, the families of the bride and groom participated in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony. The groom’s parents present the bride’s family with bao (bread buns) and wine, which is then split among the families. This symbolic gesture represents the two families coming together. The couple serves tea to their parents and older relatives as a sign of respect, whereupon the couple receives gifts of lai see (red envelopes).

In the bridal suite, the bride had her hair combed four times. The first combing symbolizes “from beginning to end.” The second combing means “harmony from youth through old age.” The third is a wish for many grandchildren. The fourth combing offers hope for wealth and a marriage that lasts a long, long time.

During the reception, the bride will change from her white wedding gown into a cheongsam (traditional red Chinese bridal dress). This signifies Sara’s support of Yorkey’s culture and family.