Jess and Jack’s wedding at Gardens House was a stunning fusion of romance and cultural traditions. Embracing whimsical pastel tones and elegant styling, they wore traditional ao dais, paying homage to Jess’ Vietnamese roots. The beautiful tea ceremony honoured their ancestors, while the heartfelt civil ceremony included meaningful readings, culminating the reception that dazzled with floral installations, a vibrant lion dance, lots of laughter and a dance floor lit up by a live saxophonist.
Location
Gardens House, Victoria.
The meaning of marriage
To Jess and Jack, marriage means always having someone to “do life with”. They say, “Marry your best friend,” and that’s what Jess and Jack believe through and through. Jess and Jack know that marriage won’t come without obstacles, but riding the good and bad times together – that commitment – is what marriage is.
The vibe/ styling inspiration
Romantic and whimsical pastels, with a touch of editorial elegance.
The outfits
Jess and Jack celebrated Jess’ cultural heritage wonderfully by wearing traditional ao dais – not only for the Vietnamese Tea Ceremony but for their wedding entrance and during the lion dance performance.
The ceremony
It’s important to have a ceremony that reflects you and that is exactly what Jess and Jack did. They included the asking of their parents as they wanted to affirm their place in their lives will continue to grow and deepen, as well as two readings that had meaning to them, read by dear friends.
(The readings: Poem; “Wedding Poem” by Whitney Hanson Celtic Blessing; “Blessing of the Hands” by Unknown)
The reception
With floral installations, chandeliers and draping, the garden house was transformed into a magical land of romance by Poni Studio and Wildflos. They had a lion dance performance by Dai Bi Quan Am (DBQA) Lion Dancers to bring in the cultural element as a symbol of luck and prosperity.
Their love of their fur-babies was shown with a personalised bar menu with signature “Cat-tails” named after their cats; Duke, Archie and Poppy.
And, a surprise was had by all when their DJ joined the dance floor with his saxophone. And to sweeten the deal, a gelato cart was delivered for dessert!
The culture and traditions
Jess and Jack conducted a gorgeous modified Vietnamese Tea Ceremony before the civil ceremony. An altar was set up by To the Tea Events. As the tradition is to honour one’s ancestors and loved ones who have passed, Jess and Jack chose to both place photos of beloved grandparents, who have passed, on the altar. Jess, Jack and many of their family and friends wore traditional ao dais during this part of the day.
Vendors
Venue: Gardens House, Royal Botanic Gardens, Victoria
Celebrant: Nhuly Weds
Entertainment: Hey Jack Co!
Florist: Widflos
Stylist: Poni Studio
Photographer: Evia Chariah
Videographer: Luca Zarik
Makeup artists: Jenifer In, Makeup by Jane
Hair: Kim too Good Hairstyling
