FAQs
Question
What about COVID-19?
Answer
We are aware of concerns with COVID-19 and are following public health guidance and restrictions closely. We will update guests the week before the event so they can know what to expect. Masks and hand sanitizer will be available, and we will be cohorting guests together at the banquet upon request. You can see all updated public health measures at www.alberta.ca/covid19.
Question
Can you tell me more about not wearing red, black, or white?
Answer
Similar to how Western weddings frown upon guests wearing white, which is the color of the bride, red is similarly the bride's color at a Chinese wedding. Black is considered unlucky for newlyweds because a wedding is a time for new beginnings and life. Bright colors such as yellow, pink, orange, and green are preferred. If you do not own anything but black, please try to add in bright colors through layering or accessories.
Question
What are customs at a tea ceremony?
Answer
The bride and groom will pour tea for their parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles as a sign of respect and appreciation. Whoever is being poured tea will sit in two chairs, with the couple kneeling in front on cushions. As this is being done, well-wishes and gifts will be given (but you don't have to finish your tea!) It is customary use both hands when giving or receiving the tea cups or gifts. Here is a helpful article with more details: https://www.brides.com/chinese-tea-ceremony-5078037
Question
What are customs at a Chinese banquet?
Answer
We encourage all guests to do what they are comfortable with. However, if you are curious about what are some of the norms you can expect at a Chinese banquet, here are some of our favorites: 1) When greeting a group of people, always greet the oldest first, and go down in order of age. This includes even the bride and groom! This is to show respect to our elders. 2) Food will be served family style. Never pick food from the main dish using your chopsticks. Instead, use the provided serving utensils. 3) If you are pouring tea during dinner, pour for those around you first before serving yourself. This shows consideration for the people around you. 4) Fish will be served whole. When eating the fish, do not "flip" the fish. This comes from a superstition from fishing customs, in which flipping the fish represents flipping the boat, i.e. bad luck. 5) Take and receive all items (gifts, teacups, bowls, etc.) with two hands to show appreciation.
Question
Are you registered? Where?
Answer
We do not have a wedding registry as we are not looking for any physical things. If you wish to honor us with a gift, we would humbly accept any cash gifts to put towards a down payment for our future home!
Question
Are kids welcome?
Answer
Children are welcome and we invite you to let us know the age of your child. We want to make the wedding as kid-friendly as possible.
Question
Do you have any hotel recommendations?
Answer
We have reserved a hotel block for our guests at Delta Hotels Edmonton South Conference Centre, which is close to the reception venue. You may access the hotel block here: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1628290586292&key=GRP&app=resvlink Ngo Bemister Wedding Room Block Start Date: Friday, November 5, 2021 End Date: Sunday, November 7, 2021 Last Day to Book: Thursday, October 7, 2021 $109 CAD per night If you require any special accommodations or have questions, please get in touch with Darcy or myself.
Question
Can I bring a date?
Answer
Your wedding invitation will specify if we have capacity for you to bring a guest. If you have any questions, please ask us directly.