On Saturday, Ryan and I got the chance to shoot the very special wedding of Linda & Kwei. It was our first Chinese wedding and we really enjoyed observing some of the unique cultural traditions.

Linda and Kwei’s fathers had known each other as schoolmates in China and both familes had since them moved to the states.  When Kwei made the move from Ohio to Arizona, his Dad put him in touch with Linda’s family to help him get settled there. They met, became friends, started dating and ten years later the rest is history! This very sweet couple celebrated their day among family and friends at the Golden Buddah Restuarant located at the Chinese Cultural Center in Phoenix. Here are some of our favorites:

The day began at Dolce Salon in Chandler where Linda was getting her hair and makeup done.

Loved all the great colors at Dolce :-)

Linda has the most contagious laugh! I love the interaction between her and her sister in these next two:

And talk about a gorgeous bride . . .

Checking out the final product . . .

Behind the restaurant there was a very cool garden complete with fountains, a Koi Pond and other great details. Here are some portraits of the lovely couple:

Ryan suggested that they show off their dance skills to get warmed up for the reception – we just LOVED how these turned out!

Part of their reception was a traditional tea ceremony where the bride and groom serve tea to the elders in their families. In exchange, they are given small red envelopes containing gifts to represent the families’ blessing on their marriage:

Linda got teary eyed when her parents presented her with some very special jewelry.

Loved this reaction shot during the toasts!

Linda was so embarrassed when Kwei removed the garter from her leg without using any hands!  So cute :-)

Instead of a cake, they served Sprinkles Cupcakes as their reception dessert :-) Even though they didn’t have to cut them, they still enjoyed a little bride-groom tasting.

A few sweet moments from their first dance:

CLICK HERE to watch a slideshow with more great photos from their wedding day!

Thanks Linda & Kwei for letting us be a part of special your day!