Chinese Wedding Culture
Question
Tea Ceremony (敬茶）
Answer
The Chinese Tea Ceremony is an intimate tradition where the bride and groom kneel before each other’s parents to serve them tea. Much like exchanging vows symbolizes commitment between the couple, this ritual represents a heartfelt promise to their in-laws. When the bride or groom presents the tea, they address their in-laws with the heartfelt words, “Mom/Dad, please drink the tea.” By accepting the tea and responding to these terms of endearment, the parents do more than welcome their child’s spouse—they make a solemn promise to love and care for them as their own, just as they would their biological son or daughter. This bond is not merely symbolic; it is a lifelong commitment to treat the bride or groom with the same devotion, guidance, and protection as any member of the family. In return, the parents offer their blessings, often involves a few words to their new "daughter"/"son" while presenting a red envelope (traditionally containing money) or a meaningful gift—sometimes both—as a token of their acceptance and goodwill. This exchange cements the new relationship, ensuring that from this moment forward, the bride or groom is truly one of their own.
Question
What does 囍 mean?
Answer
The character is formed by combining two 喜 (xǐ) characters, meaning "happiness" or "joy." It signifies double joy—the happiness of both the bride and groom coming together in marriage. The symbol is prominently used in Chinese weddings and conveys wishes for the couple’s lasting love, prosperity, and harmony in their new life together.
Question
Baitang (拜堂)
Answer
It is one of the most sacred and formal rituals in a traditional Chinese wedding. It symbolizes the couple’s official entry into marriage and their reverence for family, ancestors, and cultural traditions. The ceremony typically involves three bows (三拜) by the couple. First Bow - to Heaven and Earth (一拜天地): The couple bows to the universe, thanking the natural order for bringing them together. Second Bow - to Ancestors & Parents (二拜高堂): They bow to ancestral tablets and living parents, expressing gratitude and seeking blessings. Third Bow - To Each Other (夫妻对拜): The bride and groom bow to each other, symbolizing mutual respect and lifelong commitment.
Question
Wedding Candy
Answer
It is customary for the bride and groom to send the guest home with candy/chocolate to the guests as a symbol to share the sweet feeling of the wedding day. We also included a wood/silk flower that we made ourselves in the favor box:)