Tell us about your wedding! Did you have a specific theme, style or color palette?
We found a beautiful vineyard and winery to have our wedding, so we decided to use a natural theme.
Let’s talk wedding decor. How did you decorate your space for the ceremony and the reception? Was any part of the decor DIY?
It was all DIY! We used white draperies, flowers, and an arch. We set it up ourselves.
What was the biggest thing you did to save money?
We booked our venue on a day that the winery, vineyard, and wine-tasting businesses were normally closed – a Tuesday – in order to get a discount price.
What were the florals like in your wedding?
Our arch was decorated with flowers, and each table was topped with a white drape-style table runner covered with leaves and flowers.
Did you personalize the day in any way? What were some of your favorite parts of your wedding?
A chef-friend of ours catered dinner and dessert, we had lots of dancing, and the guests were able to enjoy a variety of fresh wines and other beverages. The vineyards and the mountains behind were beautiful, and the golden sunlight made it magical.
Let’s talk fashion. How did you both choose your wedding day look? Describe the looks in detail.
We chose a traditional white wedding dress and a blue suit. The bridesmaids each had on light purple dresses while the groomsmen wore gray suits.
How did you meet? Tell us about the proposal.
We met in New York City while she was visiting the United States with her friend. After a few months, she returned to China. Due to the lockdown, we relied on FaceTime calls for the next two and a half years and became engaged during this time!
What was the most anticipated or special moment of your wedding day?
Our families’ involvement added a special warmth to our wedding. The groom’s grandfather officiated, and the bride’s father gave a speech. The English and Chinese languages were translated by an interpreter for all the guests.
The wedding cake was made out of a watermelon and fruit and was designed and made by the bride.
Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day?
Prepare early and be patient while searching for venues and vendors so that you can make your money go a long way! Many are shocked to discover that our rehearsal dinner, wedding food, venue, decorations, dresses and suits, wedding rings, makeup and hair, and photographer cost us only $8,600.
