FAQs
Question
What is a tea ceremony?
Answer
It’s a warm, family-centred event. It is a little more formal than a casual gathering, but filled with smiles, laughter, and storytelling. Guests typically watch the tea service, enjoy refreshments, and take part in photos afterwards. Our modern adaptation of the tea ceremony: The tea ceremony will begin at Niki's family home, 81 Ebb Tide Dr., at 11 AM - guests will have arrived by then waiting for Evan and his family to arrive bearing gifts. A series of "challenges" will occur for Evan and his groomsmen to gain entry into Niki's family home. Inside, the formal introductions from each side of the family will start off the ceremony, traditionally a close family member is elected to do so. Tea is then served and blessings are shared. Once the formal tea ceremony has concluded, everyone is invited to stay and celebrate our union. This gathering is a chance for everyone to celebrate, share food, and enjoy time together before the wedding day itself. What traditionally happens: Gathering at the groom’s home: Groom’s family assembles with gifts representing happiness, prosperity, and respect. Introductions and blessings: Elders from both families exchange greetings and share words of blessing for our marriage. Tea serving: Tea will be served to our parents, grandparents, and respected elders to express our gratitude. In return, they offer blessings, advice, and sometimes gifts or jewellery. Joining of families: The ceremony symbolizes not just our union, but the connection between our two families.
Question
When is the tea ceremony happening?
Answer
It is happening at 11AM at Niki's family home.
Question
Indoors or outdoors?
Answer
Tea ceremony is mostly indoors. Please note the anticipated guest list is 130+ and space may be very limited. The tea ceremony takes place inside the living room, guests are invited to observe where they can, we realize this is limiting but there will be plenty of seating in the backyard, basement, garage, and driveway as well. Saturday's ceremony is outdoors and reception is indoors.
Question
Is there a rain plan for the tea ceremony?
Answer
If it rains, the ceremony will need to move fully indoors and may be limited to close family only due to space. We sincerely apologize in advance if this becomes necessary.
Question
What is the parking situation?
Answer
There is street parking at 81 Ebb Tide Dr., on Ebb Tide Dr, Captain's Way and Pamela Rd. Please be prepared for heavy traffic in the area and some walking. On Saturday, there is plenty of parking at the Gates near the back.
Question
Dress code or colours for the wedding guests?
Answer
We ask that you wear semi-formal attire to our tea ceremony. Please avoid wearing red as it is reserved for the bride and groom. For our wedding on Saturday, dress code is semi formal, and there is not a specific colour required by guests. We encourage colourful attire, but it is not a requirement!
Question
Dietary concerns?
Answer
When selecting your meal, if you are gluten-free, please choose your preferred protein option and indicate that you are gluten-free in the dietary remarks section. This will help us ensure your meal is prepared accordingly. If there are any allergies/dietary restrictions, please let us know in the same section and we will notify The Gates.
Question
More questions?
Answer
Email us at nikievanshaw@gmail.com Or message us, our family or our wedding party!
