Sherry + Allan’s Wedding Tea Ceremony

A few weeks ago we photographed Sherry and Allan’s family for their traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony before their wedding. We really enjoy capturing tea ceremonies and being a part of this wonderful honouring of older family members by the bride and groom.

Allan and his best friend- his Dad.

Beautiful, old and delicate, family heirloom tea cups.

Sherry and Allan serve tea in order, starting with the his parents, then proceeding from the oldest family members to the youngest. In return, the newlyweds receive lucky red envelopes (“lai see,” which means “lucky”) stuffed with money or jewelry. The helpers are usually women blessed with a happy marriage or wealth.

Sherry receiving some jewelry, which she later wore for her wedding ceremony.

Sherry serves tea (holding the teacup with both hands) to her parents and she does this out of respect and to thank her parents for raising her.