Melody and Alex’s outdoor wedding and Chinese tea ceremony took place in Fremont, California. Their nine-year relationship and years spent doing long distance culminated in the celebration of their marriage, which we got to take part in. 

The morning of the wedding, the girls got ready at the Courtyard Marriott in Newark while the boys were at Alex’s place. As Disney lovers, Melody and Alex incorporated Disney elements in their wedding, like figurines of Lumière and Cogswroth from Beauty and the Beast.

After a quiet morning, both parties headed to Ardenwood Historic Farm to meet for the first look. We found a secluded pathway to have the first look before the ceremony, and explored the grounds a bit, allowing the bride and groom some time alone to spend before the day’s festivities. 

Guests started to arrive for the ceremony, which was situated by a white gazebo in front of the historic Patterson house. The sunny, cool September weather was perfect for the outdoor wedding and the trees surrounding the ceremony spot provided some shade.

As the musicians started playing the processional song, the officiant and groomsmen filed into position and guests were all seated in anticipation of the bride walking down the aisle.

The officiant recounted memories of Alex and Melody, then led them in exchanging their vows. With their family and friends as witnesses and in full support, the couple celebrated their marriage. The atmosphere was full of joy as they were sent off in love, returning just a few minutes later to greet all the guests and take photos together.

After the ceremony, the bridal party spent some time exploring the farm grounds and taking portraits.

After the bridal party portraits, the bride and groom lingered further to do a couple session, before starting the Chinese tea ceremony. We enjoyed the diversity of backdrops at Ardenwood, venturing to the redwoods, farm pathways, and lane of trees.

The festivities continued after leaving Ardenwood, with Melody and Alex’s families awaiting their arrival to do the Chinese tea ceremony. We started at Alex’s house where family and close friends were gathered to eat, chat, and watch the tea ceremony.

Traditional tea ceremonies involve the bride and groom and important parties like their parents and elders. The tea ceremony is conducted as a sign of respect towards each side of the family, and typically gifts of red envelopes and gold jewelry are given to the couple.

After wrapping up at Alex’s house, the party continued and we made our way over to Melody’s house to honor her side of the family.

The tea ceremony was so full of laughter, warmth and celebration. It was truly a sight to behold and warmed my heart immensely to see how loved Melody and Alex were. They continued to celebrate with a Chinese restaurant style reception, complete with a ten course meal and boba bar.

The evening was filled with fun games, toasts, and lots of laughter and cheer. Guests got to participate in a trivia game about the couple, the shoe game, and a “guess which hand is the bride’s game.”

The reception was a very fun ending to a simply beautiful and celebratory day.

To a couple who has spent years together building a relationship and sharing many memories, here’s to many more years to come!

With Love,

Anna

VENDORS:

Venue: Ardenwood Historic Farm // Florals: Angels 24 Hour Flowers // Invitations: Vistaprintt // HMUA: Maritza Barajas // Wedding Officiant: Bassy Lee // Cake: Hansbake // Wedding Dress: Stella York dress from Weddings and Dreams // Boba: Milk & Honey Cafe // Flower Wall: Blooming Bliss