Our coverage of the Sydney wedding photography / videography scene
Karen and Edmond Wedding
It seems ages ago when I last did a Chinese wedding. My very first was quite interesting as I didn’t know what to expect. That is always the case when you first cover a wedding from a culture besides your own. But this time, I am quite confident that I am aware of the events as they unfold.
I’ve known Karen (the bride) for many years now. We are workmates at my full-time job. I met Edmond (the groom) when he was a guest at a wedding that I previously covered. Karen was a beautiful but simple girl. Because I see her all the time, it was really a big revelation when she completely transformed into a stunning bride.
The hot Sydney summer was in full force during the day. Although it was raining in the morning, I was thankful that the weather cleared and it was dry all throughout. It was also lucky for me as I forgot to bring my umbrella.
The day started at Edmond’s place in Beverly Hills. The envelope below is used as a monetary gift meant as a token of appreciation. Me and my assistant received a few of these during the course of the wedding. Of course, we highly appreciated these gifts. Thanks for the couple and their family.
Edmond is preparing with the assistance of Ken, his best man.
We then proceed to The Swissotel in the City where Karen is preparing.
Karen’s engagement ring
Karen’s make-up was done by Martha Mok. She was with us during the whole wedding as she has to create a different and unique style of hair and makeup for each of the wardrobe change that Karen has to do. The bride had a total of 6 outfits to change to!
The maid-of-honour Canny taking over our job 🙂
The wedding ceremony was at a picturesque church at Little Bay. Shown here is the cute flower girl Charlotte.
The scenic view from the rear of the church
The couple proceeded back to the Swissotel to freshen up and prepare for our formal photo shoot. We started the session at the hotel lobby
We then walked towards Hyde Park. While doing so, the couple received a lot of friendly greetings/congratulations from passersby.
The St. Mary’s Cathedral in the background
The reception was at the Sky Palace Chinese Restaurant at Westfield, Sydney.
As customary for Chinese weddings, a tea-ceremony is held. During the ceremony, the couple serves tea to each of the family or friend who bears gifts for them. The tea is given in exchange for the gifts. Here you can see Karen being assisted while she tries to wear the jewellery given to her.
This stage was setup as a photo backdrop. This is where all the group shots took place.
The couple with the bridal entourage – Ken (Best Man) and Canny (Maid-of-honour).
There was one part of the event where the couple goes around each of the table to toast with the guests. This I was told was another Chinese wedding tradition.
The flower girl Charlotte with her friends while they play around.
As the event drew to a close, I was again thankful that I had the privilege to cover another beautiful wedding.
Dodie Labial is a Sydney wedding photographer and videographer.
Leave a Reply