FAQs

Question

When should I RSVP by?

Answer

August 8, 2025

Question

Can I bring a date?

Answer

When you RSVP, you will see if you are allotted a +1.

Question

Are kids welcomed?

Answer

Although we love your little ones, due to very limited space at the reception, we are limiting kids to family and guests who are traveling internationally. Thank you for understanding.

Question

Are the venues kid-friendly?

Answer

The Seattle Chinese Garden is located outdoors with a mix of grass, soil and gravel. Though there is no playground equipment, there is plenty of green space to run around, wander and play (it is a public park). At Seattle Harbor Restaurant, there is space to leave strollers inside the lobby, but this will not be specifically supervised. We will reach out and confirm with you if you need a high chair or booster seat. Please note we do have any child-specific entertainment.

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Semi-formal & cocktail attire. Traditional ao dai and cheongsam/qipaos are welcomed!

Question

Is the ceremony space outdoors?

Answer

Yes! Seattle Chinese Garden is a beautiful open-air garden and courtyard. There is a covered walkway along the north and east exterior of the courtyard. Please note it is a gentle sloping gravel path from the parking lot to the courtyard. The gravel path is compact and a short distance, but please consider your footwear. The courtyard itself is concrete tile paving on level ground. The surrounding grounds is a mix of grass and dirt. Restrooms are available on-site. It is located near the entry/parking lot before walking down to the courtyard (~2 minute walk).

Question

What is the parking situation?

Answer

Ceremony Venue: Seattle Chinese Garden (West Seattle) Seattle Chinese Garden is located on the South Seattle College Campus. There is a parking lot for those who are driving (SCC North Lot). Note, the parking lot locks down at 9:00pm and there is no overnight parking. If you wish to leave your car at the ceremony location, please park your car along the street, outside the campus parking lot. Reception/Banquet Venue: Seattle Harbor Restaurant (South Lake Union) There is one mile of public parking along the restaurant and lake. Parking is free and available outside the restaurant. However, due to another event occurring this same day, spaces closest to the restaurant will be limited. Though there will be enough parking, if you plan to drive, you may need to park and walk a little further than Google Maps suggests. NOTE: Alcohol will be served at both venues, please drink responsibly and consider carpooling with a designated driver.

Question

Will there be alcohol at the ceremony and reception?

Answer

Yah bruh - beer, wine and select spirits.

Question

Do you have any hotel recommendations?

Answer

Yes! We reserved a block of hotels for our guests at a discounted rate nearby the banquet hall and after party location. Please refer to the 'Travel' tab of the website.

Question

What is a Chinese banquet?

Answer

A Chinese banquet dinner is a traditional multi-course meal often served during weddings and special celebrations, typically featuring 8 to 10 elaborate dishes shared family-style. Each dish is thoughtfully chosen for its symbolism—such as fish for prosperity, noodles for longevity, and dumplings for wealth. The meal emphasizes abundance, unity, and respect for elders, reflecting core values in Chinese culture. Hosting a banquet honors family heritage and is seen as a gesture of generosity and good fortune for the couple’s future.

Question

Why can’t I request food substitutions?

Answer

In a traditional Chinese banquet, each table is served the same menu. Dishes are prepared in large quantities and served family-style, making individual substitutions logistically difficult without disrupting the flow of the meal. Because each dish is carefully selected for balance and symbolism, altering the set menu can compromise the overall experience and cultural intent. That being said, if you have dietary restrictions and allergies, please make sure to let us know ahead of time.

Question

What should I expect during a Chinese banquet?

Answer

Guests at a Chinese banquet can expect a lively, multi-course meal served family-style, often accompanied by toasts, speeches, and sometimes games that celebrate the couple. It’s common for the newlyweds to visit each table to personally greet and thank their guests. Often guests will toast the couple, demand games, or present small gifts. The evening typically blends tradition and entertainment, so guests should be ready for joyful moments and a festive atmosphere.

Question

What games will you have at the wedding?

Answer

Stay tuned!

Question

What should we do in Seattle?

Answer

Stay tuned for Samantha and Andrew's favorite spots!