We’re looking forward to celebrating with you!
Nghi Tran
Michael Newman
Nghi Tran
Michael Newman
March 21, 2026
Our story
Nghi and Michael met in San Antonio during medical training. Their first date was at a Starbucks, but they decided to remain friends. Over the next few months, their friendship deepened, and they eventually fell in love. Together, they’ve built a life filled with shared passions: discovering new restaurants, crafting cocktails at home or enjoying them at their favorite local bar, traveling to immerse themselves in new cultures, and bonding over video games and cozy TV marathons. Their connection is strengthened by a deep understanding of the challenges of a medical career, always providing each other with unwavering support and encouragement. In 2023, Michael proposed at the top of a mountain in Sa Pa, Vietnam, Nghi’s home country, creating a moment they would cherish forever. That same year, Nghi graduated medical school, and Michael completed his anesthesiology residency. They have since made their home in San Antonio, where Nghi is finishing her neurology residency and Michael is thriving as an academic anesthesiologist. Their family grew recently with the addition of Pepper, a Cavalier King Charles puppy, who joined her big brother Finn. Nghi and Michael are so excited to celebrate their love with family and friends and can’t wait to create even more memories together!
Schedule (Lịch trình)
Saturday, March 21, 2026
Wedding ceremony (Lễ thành hôn)
5:00 pm - 5:45 pm
2500 Summer St, Floor 3, Houston, TX 77007
Cocktail attire
Cocktail hour (Tiệc nhẹ)
6:00 pm - 6:45 pm
2500 Summer St, Floor 3, Houston, TX 77007
Hors d'oeuvres and wines available
Reception (Tiệc chính)
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
2500 Summer St, Floor 3, Houston, TX 77007
Cocktail attire
We can't wait to see you!
RSVP (Phúc đáp)
Please enter the first and last name of one member of your party below.
If you're responding for you and a guest (or your family), you'll be able to RSVP for your entire group on the next page.
Tea ceremony
Groom’s Family Arrival
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The groom’s family arrives at the bride’s home. The groom’s parents lead the way and then the groom, followed by the men on the groom’s side, carrying gifts in 6 red-lacquered trays (tráp). A representative from the groom’s side will meet the bride’s representative at the door to seek permission to enter and begin the ceremony.
Exchange of Gifts
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The bridesmaids line up in front of the bride’s residence to accept the gifts handed to them by the groomsmen. The trays typically include tea and wine, betel leaves and areca nuts, fruits, traditional cakes, jewelry and a roasted pig or chicken, each symbolizing prosperity, fertility, harmony, and an everlasting marriage. These gifts are meaningful representations of the couple’s future together, filled with blessings of abundance and unity.
Greetings & Introductions
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Once the gifts are brought inside and displayed on a table in front of the altar, a representative of the bride’s family welcomes all the guests and both sides introduce members of the family. A request for the bride’s presence is then made, which is when she will appear for the first time.
Tribute & Tea Ceremony
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The couple begins by offering incense at the ancestral altar to honor past generations. They then serve tea to their elders in order: parents first, followed by grandparents, aunts, uncles, and older siblings. In return, they receive blessings, advice, gifts and often lì xì (red envelopes) as a symbol of good fortune.
Celebration
‧‧•●•‧‧
Families celebrate with food, photos, and conversations, marking the unity between the two families.
Gallery
FAQs
Question
When and where is your wedding?
Answer
Our wedding will take place on Sat. March 21st, 2026 at The Astorian, 2500 Summer St. in Houston, Texas. The ceremony will begin at 5:15 PM, followed by a reception at the same location.
Question
What’s the RSVP deadline?
Answer
Please RSVP by February 21, 2026, so we can finalize our guest count.
Question
What’s the best way to RSVP?
Answer
The best way to RSVP is on our website in the RSVP tab or via the QR code provided in your invitation.
Question
What time should I arrive?
Answer
Please arrive by 5:00 PM to allow time for parking and seating. The procession will begin promptly at 5:15 PM.
Question
Can I bring a plus-one?
Answer
Our invitations will specify if you have a plus-one. If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out!
Question
What is the dress code?
Answer
We’d love for our guests to dress in semi-formal/cocktail attire. Feel free to bring comfortable shoes for dancing! Just one favor: no white outfits (we’re saving that for the bride!).
Question
Will the wedding be indoors or outdoors?
Answer
Our entire wedding, from ceremony to reception, will be indoors.
Question
What will the weather be like?
Answer
March in Houston is typically mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F.
Question
Can we take photos or videos during the ceremony?
Answer
We’re going unplugged! Please keep phones and cameras away during the ceremony. Our photo/video team has it covered. Don’t worry, there’ll be a quick photo moment at the end for everyone to snap a pic!
Question
What’s the best way to get to the venue?
Answer
The Astorian is located in central Houston, just minutes from downtown. Guests can park on-site and valet is available, but we recommend arriving by 5:00 PM to allow time for traffic, parking, and seating. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also great options.
Question
What type of food and drinks will be served?
Answer
During cocktail hour, we’ll have light hors d’oeuvres, followed by dinner stations at the reception. There will also be an open bar and coffee/tea available.
Question
Will there be vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free meal options?
Answer
Please let us know your dietary preferences when you RSVP so we can accommodate you.
Question
Will there be an open bar?
Answer
Yes! We will have a fully stocked open bar throughout the night.
Question
I’m traveling from out of town. What can I do while I’m in Houston?
Answer
Check out the “Things to Do” section on our wedding website for recommendations on restaurants, attractions, and activities in Houston! If you’re looking for something specific, feel free to reach out to either of us. We’d be happy to help!
Question
Do you have a gift registry?
Answer
Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift we could ask for! If you would like to honor us with a gift, our gift registry is available on our wedding website.
Question
Who should I contact if I have questions?
Answer
You can reach out to either of us (Nghi or Michael) with any questions!
Registry
Things To Do
Huynh Restaurant
One of the best Vietnamese restaurants. "Top 100 Houston Restaurants", Houston Chronicle, 2012-2019. "100 Restaurants America Can't Afford to Lose", Esquire 2020. Recommended options: Com Phuong Hoang (crispy cornish hen), Com suon nuong (chargrilled pork chop), Bun bo Hue (Spicy noodle soup with sliced beef), Ca phe sua da (Vietnamese coffee), weekend's special Bit tet (sizzling steak plate), Banh uot thit nuong (grilled pork wrapped in soft rice paper)
Phoenicia Specialty Foods
28,000-sq-ft food market featuring more than 10,000 products imported from more than 50 countries. Grab shawarma, falafel, or wood-fired flatbreads from the in-house grill, or explore imported wines, spices, cheeses, and pastries. Located across from Discovery Green, it’s a favorite for quick bites, picnic provisions, and gourmet finds under one roof.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
One of the most visited museums in the U.S., drawing over 1.5 million visitors annually. featuring world-class exhibits like the Morian Hall of Paleontology, Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals, and the Cockrell Butterfly Center. From towering dinosaur skeletons to dazzling crystals and immersive space shows at the planetarium, it’s a must-visit for curious minds of all ages. Located in Hermann Park, perfect to pair with a zoo or garden visit.
Houston Zoo
One of the top 10 most-visited zoos in the U.S. Home to over 6,000 animals across lush, immersive habitats like the African Forest, Texas Wetlands and Gorilla Habitat, the Houston Zoo offers an up-close wildlife experience in the heart of Hermann Park.
Hermann Park
A beloved 445-acre green space in the heart of Houston, offering scenic trails, pedal boat rides, a Japanese Garden, and picnic-perfect lawns. Home to the Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theatre, and the McGovern Centennial Gardens, it’s a favorite for both locals and visitors seeking nature, culture, and relaxation all in one place
POST Market (Food Hall)
POST Market transforms the former Barbara Jordan Post Office into a vibrant downtown hub for global eats, culture, and design. Highlights include West African plates from ChòpnBlọk, Thai street food at Thai Kun, fresh pasta from Ciccio’s, and cocktails from Return to Sender or Address Unknown. POST features a rooftop park with skyline views, the 713 Music Hall, rotating art installations, and pop-up markets, offering a dynamic mix of dining, entertainment, and cityscape all in one place
The Finn Hall
Finn Hall is a chef-driven food hall offering a curated and elevated mix of global flavors. Highlights include Korean dosiraks from Nyam Nyam, Memphis-style barbecue at The Smoke, and inventive burgers at Proper. Other vendors include Papalo Taqueria, Pizza Zquare, Maui Bowls, FireNoodz, Cranky Carrot Juice Co., and Three Keys Coffee. Upstairs, Swallow’s Nest offers craft cocktails in a stylish mezzanine lounge.
Lyric Market
Good for lunch. Various dining options, including Samurai Noodle, Dorado Sushi, Mexology, 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen, Press Waffle Co., and Kati Roll Wala. Though it serves as the perfect reprieve from the office for lunch, the Lyric also hosts events like music bingo, Latin guitar nights, and live jazz happy hours.
Underground Hall
Underground Hall, tucked beneath the historic Esperson building, brings together bold local eats in a lively downtown space. Grab birria tacos and churros from Birria Los Primos, Asian-Southern fusion from Wokker, fried chicken from SideChick, or smashburgers from bunslut. Don’t miss the tres leches from Luv’em Leches or bubble tea from The Daily Boba. Full bar with beer, cocktails, and wine makes it an easy go-to for lunch or happy hour
Discovery Green
One-acre lake, children’s playground, interactive water features, amphitheater stage and slope, small and large dog runs, public art works, HPL (Houston Public Library) Express, open lawns, and great restaurants.
Sig's Lagoon Record Shop
Sig's Lagoon Record Shop is a funky, locally loved vinyl haven tucked near the heart of Midtown. Specializing in new and vintage records with a strong focus on Texas artists, blues, jazz, and rock, it’s also stocked with quirky books, music memorabilia, and retro gifts. A perfect pre-show stop or laid-back browse for collectors and music fans alike
Montrose
Montrose is one of Houston’s most eclectic and walkable neighborhoods, known for its artsy vibe, historic bungalows, and diverse food scene. From vintage shops and craft cocktail bars to celebrated restaurants like Hugo’s and Nobie’s, it’s a cultural hub with character. Local favorites like Space Montrose, Pavement, and Emerson Rose offer a mix of indie goods, fashion, and gifts—perfect for browsing between bites.
Houston Museum of Fine Arts
One of the largest art museums in the U.S., spanning multiple buildings and showcasing over 70,000 works from around the world. You can explore everything from Impressionist masterpieces and Latin American art to contemporary installations. The campus includes the striking Nancy and Rich Kinder Building, a sculpture garden, and the immersive Light Inside tunnel by James Turrell.
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
A peaceful escape into nature with five miles of scenic trails through forests, wetlands, and prairie habitats. Located on the western edge of Memorial Park, it features interactive exhibits, birdwatching spots, and native plant gardens. A serene retreat for hiking, wildlife spotting, or a quiet picnic—just minutes from the bustle of the city.