FAQs

Question

Is there a dress code for the party?

Answer

Sort of. This is not a traditional wedding ceremony, so the dress code is semi-formal. If possible, all guests should aim to wear shades of pink or red (or both!). Blacks, grays, nudes, and other non-white neutrals are also good. The wedding color scheme was chosen because red is the traditional bridal color in China, as well as a color that symbolizes luck, joy, and happiness. White, which Allison will wear, is the bridal color in American / Western traditions. Pink is a mixture of the two - just like how Haonan and Allison and the their cultures are coming together, so are the red and white. Pink just so happens to also be a common color to symbolize love, a great choice for flowers, and Haonan’s favorite color.

Question

Was it hard to do long distance? How did you handle that?

Answer

Long distance is difficult - especially an international long distance relationship that generally has a 13-14 hour time difference! Haonan and Allison prioritize FaceTiming and spend hours on the phone every night (for Allison) and morning (for Haonan). Even if there isn't much new day to day, they cook and clean and sometimes just play games or read while on the phone together. Although, to be fair, they almost always have a lot to talk about... especially if you have ever heard Allison tell a story, you know that alone could take a while!

Question

How do you pronounce Haonan’s name?

Answer

Haonan is pronounced “how” like the question, and “naan” like the bread. If you’re unfamiliar with the bread, saying “none” is close enough! In Chinese, his given name is written as 浩男. Haonan’s last name is Lyu. This anglicized version of his name is what we use, as that is what is in his passport. This last name is also often written as Lv (different than Lu) because it is using the umlaut character ü. This name is also in the third tone, ǔ. This surname is difficult to pronounce for many English speakers, so simply putting an L sound in front of the word “you” in English, so it sounds like “L-you”, is pretty close. In Chinese, his surname is written as 吕. Since Chinese names are spoken and written with the surname first, Haonan’s name is 吕浩男 or Lyu Haonan. Anglicized, it would be flipped into Haonan Lyu.

Question

What does the immigration and visa process look like for you two?

Answer

Haonan and Allison filed for the K-1 Fiancé Visa, which is the same type of visa that the people on the show “90 Day Fiancé” have. It’s called that because once the fiancé enters into the U.S. on this visa, the couple have 90 days to get legally married and apply for an adjustment of status. This adjustment of status is the application for permanent residency in the U.S. and is a long and expensive process. Prior to getting to this point, Haonan and Allison needed to file a I-129F petition, which took 8 months to be reviewed and approved. After more paperwork, fees, and waiting, Haonan needed to go to a visa appointment. This involved extensive documentation, a medical exam, and an interview with an official at the embassy. It’s been a long journey, and is far from over. Thank you for your support throughout this process!

Question

What are weddings like in China?

Answer

Chinese weddings and wedding celebrations are diverse, as China is a large country with many regional and cultural differences. There are many traditions, some more popular than others, including: the colors red and gold, symbols like the double happiness sign and phoenix and dragon imagery, events like a tea ceremony, and fun door games and “trials” that the groom must pass before he can see or pick-up his bride. Other traditions range from Lion Dances, hair combing ceremonies, to processionals and fireworks, all followed up by a delicious banquet. Traditionally, wedding guests give 红包 (hóngbāo) or red packets filled with money rather than wedding gifts. Don’t worry though, Allison and Haonan don’t expect you to do this! Many couples have extravagant decor in big ballrooms, usually with a stage and a long catwalk. Multiple events and multiple clothing changes are also common for weddings in China.