A Multi-Location Traditional Chinese Wedding Across the GTA
Vi and Sam’s autumn wedding day was filled with energy, tradition, and celebration as the festivities took us across several locations in the Greater Toronto Area. The day began at sunrise at the bride’s family home in Kitchener before continuing to the groom’s family home in North York for a traditional Chinese tea ceremony. From there, we travelled to Scarborough for the ceremony at Good Shepherd Community Church and concluded the evening with an elaborate banquet at Very Fair Seafood Cuisine.
Chinese Wedding Door Games and Traditional Offerings
Following tradition, Sam and his groomsmen arrived at the bride’s home with offerings for the family, including a whole roasted pig for the celebration. Before he could see his bride, however, Sam had to complete a series of playful “door game” challenges organized by the bridesmaids.
These lighthearted tests included tricky trivia questions and fun penalties for incorrect answers. Whenever Sam got a question wrong, one of his groomsmen had to take on a challenge, such as drinking unusual and stomach-turning concoctions. Eventually, the groomsmen lifted Sam and carried him through an obstacle course, successfully reaching the door to his waiting bride.
Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremonies
The couple then participated in two traditional Chinese wedding tea ceremonies, honouring their parents and extended family while celebrating the union of their families. The décor featured elegant shades of red, gold, white, and dark copper, complemented by vibrant floral arrangements.
Vi looked stunning in a traditional red and gold dress, perfectly suited for the cultural ceremony and its rich symbolism.
A Christian Wedding Ceremony in Scarborough
Later in the day, the couple changed outfits and travelled to Good Shepherd Community Church in Scarborough for a small Christian wedding ceremony attended by about 20 close friends and family members.
Vi wore a classic white wedding gown with delicate spaghetti straps and intricate lace detailing on the back, while Sam looked sharp in a three-piece suit. The bridesmaids wore warm peach dresses, and the floral arrangements combined shades of blush, white, and soft orange.
Fall Wedding Portraits at Milliken Park
Despite a blustery October afternoon, the wedding party braved the wind and cooler temperatures for a few portraits outside the church after the ceremony. Afterwards, we headed to Milliken Park where Vi and Sam enjoyed a quieter moment together while taking portraits against the beautiful fall colours.
A 10-Course Chinese Wedding Banquet
The evening celebration took place at Very Fair Seafood Cuisine, where guests enjoyed a traditional multi-course Chinese banquet. The night included heartfelt speeches, lively karaoke performances, including one by the groom, and a fun newlywed edition of the classic Shoe Game.
The dance floor came alive later in the evening with energetic music and even a round of limbo dancing.
Gan Bei Toasts and Celebrating with Family
During the banquet, Vi and Sam visited each table to share Gan Bei toasts with their guests, a Chinese tradition meaning “dry glass” or “cheers.” It was a wonderful way to personally thank everyone who came to celebrate their marriage.
Since their wedding day, Vi and Sam have welcomed a beautiful baby girl into their family. In fact, Vi was six months pregnant on their wedding day, something many guests didn’t even realize at the time. Congratulations to Vi and Sam on their growing family!
VENDORS
Officiant – Philip Smith
Hair/Make-Up Artist – Olivia Ha
Wedding Dress Designer/Boutique – The Brides’ Project
Wedding Cake Designer – Daan Go Cake Lab
Caterer – Very Fair Seafood Cuisine
Groom’s Attire Designer/Boutique – Tm Wedding Events
Florist – Tm Wedding Events
Wedding Car Company – Toronto Limos
