Yay, it’s November…and we’re off to a great start.
There’s no better way to kick off the month of thanksgiving than by sharing a beautiful fusion wedding filled with family, tradition and modern romance, all the things that one should be thankful for, among others. Our story unfolds among the historic landscape of Williamsburg, VA. Filled with tangible American history, remnants of crisp colonial architecture, and the setting of gorgeous Taiwanese/Filipino wedding photographed by the one and only: Echard Wheeler.
Setting: A restored 18th century Lodge in Williamsburg, VA.
Heroine & Hero: Helene – a blushing bride of Taiwanese descent and her Filipino Groom, Carlo.
SCENE 1: Bling, Bouquets and a Blushing Bride.
(All Images by © Echard Wheeler Photography)
(Above: Bridal “Halar“ gown by Pronovias 2009 Collection; Hair by Holly of Colonial Williamsburg; Make up by Bride using Bare Escentuals & MAC; Bride’s shoes by Caparros; Bouquet by My Favorite Things; Necklace by A.R. Morris Jewelers; All other jewelry from Nadri; Veil from Jennifer’s Bridal Salon)
SCENE 2: The Calm before “I Do.”
(Above: Groom’s suit from Men’s Warehouse; Boutonniere by My Favorite Things; Engagement ring from Ritani; Bride’s wedding Band from Tiffany & Co. and groom’s Wedding band from A.R Morris Jewelers.)
SCENE 3: A Charming Catholic Ceremony
(Above: Ceremony at St. Joan of Arc in Yorktown, VA)
Tradition Ideas:
During their catholic mass ceremony, Helene and Carlo incorporated a few Filipino wedding traditions. 1. The first involved having “God parents” or sponsors (also known in Tagalog as ninong or ninang), who’s role is to walk ahead during the procession to bless and show support of the union. 2. They also had the candle lighting and veil pining ceremony as well. The former involves a couple that’s close to the bride and groom, lighting a candle together to illuminate the way for Helene and Carlo’s Marraige. 3. The latter involved, pinning a veil across the bride and groom as well as a lose cord symbolizing the infinite bond of marriage. 4. Finally, they had both sets of parents, their priest as well as themselves sign a traditional fabric bound Taiwanese certificate.
For more ideas on Filipino & Taiwanese wedding traditions, visit here or here.
Scene 4: Romantic Receptions and Dreamy Details.
(Above: Reception at Williamsburg Lodge; Event Coordination and Linens by Isha Foss Events; Lighting by Blue Steel Lighting Design; Cake by Williamsburg Lodge)
The best part about a wedding to me is the reception. Why? You can tell a lot about the couples personality by their choice of festive details, colors, music and decor. Isha Foss did an amazing job of bringing Helene and Carlo’s vision to life. I also love the Spotlit centerpieces (effective and simple alternatives to candles, that add drama to your table). Other little fabulous details were the engraved wooden chopstick place card holders/ favors and the folded origami paper cranes done by the bride and groom which symbolized eternal loyalty (as cranes mate for life). Details through and through…I love it.
SCENE 5: Rhythm and Music
With over 250 guests in attendance, the operative word was fun. By blending traditional musical styles with hip and modern pop, everyone is bound to have a great time.
(Above: Filipino band by D’Originals; Traditional Chinese Lion Dancers from Jow Ga Kung Fu Academy; Bride’s Tradional gown [Cheongsam] from Local Alterations Business in Derwood, MD; Groom’s Traditional attire [Barong Tagalong] from the Philippines.
Challenge: Finding a romantic, modern and fun way to fuse two very distinct cultural traditions. In this case Filipino & Taiwanese customs?
How they Did it? : 1. Incorporate tradition in the ceremony, instead of sticking to standard mass protocol. 2. Mix traditional dance with modern music styles, such as the Lion Dance procession with a live jazz band. While you’re at it, if you can find a live band that can play both pop and traditional folk, even better 3. Personalize your table numbers with information that’s significant to you. 4. By picking a relatively neutral venue, each detail choice stands out better without competing with the surroundings. 5. The bride and groom chose to make it fun and not stagnant. You can express this in your choice of favors, lighting, music, etc.
(All Images by © Echard Wheeler Photography)
“We wanted our wedding to be fun and nontraditional”
-Helene, the Bride-
Helene, a huge thank you for providing all the details of how you pulled off such a stunner. Congrats to you and Carlo. And to Echard Wheeler for providing the photos, I say Merci!
Spicyhugs,
Fri
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Oh wow, what a great way to start my monday.
I love learning about new traditions. THanks. Her dress is gorgroeous
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