Pon and Joe partook in both a Laotian Buddhist and a Christian ceremony, representing the culture of both the bride and groom, respectfully. The mix of elements, like a paper dragon hung over the bar and hors d’oeuvres of bratwurst and sauerkraut bites, created a beautiful and unique celebration representative of the couples union. Not only was there a joining of cultures, but also a pairing of tradition with fun; especially during introductions! The wedding party was split into guys vs. girls teams and introduced “Family Feud” style, they answered questions about the bride and groom to win first dibs at the Asian-themed buffet!
The couple enjoyed a few intimate moments together and watched the sunset along the waterfront.
The bride and groom combined cultures in their traditional Laotian attire of bridal silk sinh and groom silk salong.
Guests joined in prayer with the couple during the morning baci ceremony.
The ceremony featured chanting Buddhist monks, tying white strings to the couple's wrists symbolizing unity, followed by traditional Laotion dancing.
The groom made his entrance in a hae keuy procession (with celebratory music and noise).
After an intermission, the couple returned for their Christian ceremony where the bridal party all carried paper parasols.
The groom and groomsmen kept a Laotion influence in their attire for the Christian ceremony, wearing mandarin collared shirts and suit jackets.
Booklet style programs featured a black and white damask design, with pops of red to compliment the wedding colors and decor.
Paper lanterns (that matched with the adorable ring bearers) were strung from oak trees overhead and hung from shepherds hooks along the ceremony aisle.
One of our favorite moments, when the groom saw his bride for the first time and teared up!
For the Christian ceremony, the waterfront gazebo at Davis Islands Garden Club was framed with cherry blossom branches.
The escort card display featured silver Manzanita trees with paper cranes.
The head table displayed crimson linens and patterned overlays accented with bowls filled with black river rocks, floating candles and orchid blossoms, with a dramatic paper lantern chandelier overhead!
Tables were named after Chinese birth year animals such as Dragon, Tiger, and Rabbit.
Some tables featured textured linens with submerged orchid centerpieces, and guest favor chopsticks tucked inside napkins.
While other tables boasted black Manzanita trees and orchid blossoms.
The couple were lost in their love for each other during their first dance.
The outdoor veranda ceiling was adorned with parasols and paper lanterns, along with upholstered bench and pod seating.
The three-tier cake featured fondant icing with Thai silk pattern piping and the groom’s family crest on the quilted second tier.
Uplighting and paper lanterns transformed the outdoor veranda into a Laotion infused party.
Guests said farewell to the couple with well-wishes during a sparkler sendoff!
The incredible team who helped complete this event:
Venue: Davis Islands Garden Club
Photography: 12-1 Photography
Catering: Catering by the Family and Yummy House
Decor: Grand Events
Florist: Arlene Floral Designer
Linens: Connie Duglin Linens
Cake: Publix Greenwise
DJ: DJ Ron of Universal Music Entertainment