Chinese Tea Ceremony | San Jose, CA

We first met Jenny and Rico at their engagement session in Sunol.  They brought along their pup and even some playful props!  As we walked, we chatted about their wedding and learned that they were planning both a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and a full wedding and reception – all on the same day!

With basically 2 weddings in 1 day, Jenny and her bridesmaids were up early!  Hair and makeup started at 5AM!  We showed up (closer to 8AM) and found a beautifully calm bride, excited about the upcoming day.

This was our first tea ceremony, but Jenny’s family and friends made sure we knew what was going on, walking us through all the special points of the day.  The festivities begin at the bride’s home.  The groom arrives and must play “door games” until the bridesmaids feel he has sufficiently earned the right to enter.  Rico played along like a champ – performing the roger rabbit and singing his best rendition of My Heart Will Go On – while Jenny peaked from upstairs!

Once allowed to enter, Rico and his groomsman brought in their gifts – which even included a roast pig!  Then it was time for Rico to see his bride and bow at the altar before it was off to Rico’s house.

Once at Rico’s, Jenny changed into a traditional dress – including some amazing sparkley gold Toms – and it was time for the tea ceremony to begin.  The bride and groom serve tea to their friends and relatives and are then presented with their wedding gifts in return.

Then it was back to Jenny’s house for a tea ceremony with her side of the family!

After the couple finished with the tea ceremony, Jenny changed back into her white dress.  She had time for a short break before they were off to the wedding and reception!