The Chinese-American wedding of Jessica and Wayne was a day filled with tradition, fun, love and laughter. This amazing couple chose to celebrate the entire day with family and friends so they could include traditions of both heritages. From the break of day the festivities began with Chinese celebrations in the couples home. They included games, prayers and a traditional tea ceremony with the couple receiving gifts from relatives and a bountiful spread of food.
I absolutely love the vibrant, red and gold dress Jessica wore for the morning ceremony. She was so calm and beautiful and all smiles as family greeted her all morning while she waited for Wayne to arrive.
The games included in the Chinese tradition were so fun to watch. The groom arrived only to be tested by the bridesmaids before he was allowed to see his bride.
Once the games concluded the bride and groom prayed together and received gifts from family while serving a traditional tea. It was really sweet to watch each set of family members offer their best wishes and advice on a happy marriage and life. Jessica and Wayne were surrounded by so much love and thoughtfulness.
The gorgeous Bayou Club in Largo, Florida held the ceremony and reception. They presented a stunning ceremony and reception venue. The light streaming though their huge windows and the ceremony facing the green of the golf course was beautiful.
The afternoon started as most American weddings do with the bride and groom prepping in separate rooms and enjoying the company of their closest friends and family. Jessica’s white wedding dress was absolutely stunning. The lace detail and beautiful cut looked amazing on her.
The guys looked fabulous too. I love the gray suits and superhero themed cuff links. They were definitely a fun crew to photograph.
Jessica stepped out to do a first look with her dad and it was sweetness overload. You could tell her dad was so moved by his daughters beauty and grace. It gave me all the feels…I totally had to keep it together for these photos!
Opting to keep a little bit of tradition the couple decided on a first touch instead of a first look. They exchanged gifts, laughed and enjoyed a few minutes holding hands before the ceremony.
Guests were seated to instrumental disney music that fill the air with happiness. The rolling golf course as a backdrop on this bright and sunny afternoon was perfection. The vows were a whirlwind of emotions, even for me! As Jessica spoke I had tears welling up and when Wayne had his moment I was literally LOL-ing. The scroll he pulled out was hysterical!!
This awesome bridal party helped keep the photos fun and kept the smiles coming!
My very favorite time, couples portraits…I love working with Jessica and Wayne so much…they are just perfection together.
The first dances melted my heart just as much as the vows. I barely made it through. 🙂
After the ceremony cocktails were served, guests celebrated, danced, and hopped into a fun photo booth for a special guest book the couple will cherish forever.
As most things do…the night came to an end…with BUBBLES…thousands of bubbles! Jessica and Wayne walked through all their smiling guests and out of a night that will always be remembered.
Cheers to Jessica and Wayne! Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness!!
Venue: The Bayou Club, Largo FL
Hair & Makeup: Lasting Luxe
Cake: Cakes by Caroline
DJ: Grant Hemond
Florals: Rose Garden – Heather Bay
Suits: The Mens Warehouse
Dress: Cici’s Bridal
Officient: Scott Lortz – Weddings and Wellness
Christina is a featured wedding and portrait photographer located in the Tampa Bay area, serving Florida and beyond for boudoir, wedding, elopement and destination photography. Contact her today to reserve your date and an amazing wedding experience. Christina@luxelightimages.com