Tea Ceremony & Wedding at University of Washington
I can’t think of a better way to spend last weekend than photographing one of my favorite multi-cultural weddings ever. Kata and Nicho’s big day was spent in various events at different spots in the University of Washington area.
This couple’s love story began during their service in the Peace Corps, but their wedding day began in a small Airbnb that was absolutely FILLED with excited chatter, where they hosted a colorful and intimate Vietnamese tea ceremony.
After Nicho’s family took turns carrying baskets full of goodies into the house, Nicho’s mom presented Kata with a necklace while their closest families and friends gathered around in support (and happy tears!) as Kata & Nicho offered tea to each of their parents as a symbol of respect.
We were shocked at how many people came from both Kata’s and Nicho’s extended families (think aunts, uncles, cousins.. you get it). People traveled from all over the world to be here on their wedding day!
And everyone we met was SO kind too! In fact, we counted at least 6 instances where one of Nicho’s and Kata’s family members urged us to “take a break and eat with us”, pointing to the massive spread of delicious Vietnamese food. So sweet!
Yes, in case you’re wondering, that is a whole suckling pig – and yes, it tasted amazing.
From there, we made our way to the University of Washington for Kata and Nicho’s first look in her white wedding gown. All we can say is: it was such a sweet moment.
Then we rushed over to the UW Newman Catholic Center for their wedding mass. The venue was beautifully intimate, and it’s got that moody and dark feel to it too. Armed with our cameras, Evan and I (Michelle) worked our magic to capture all the laughs, the prayers, and the secret smirks.
Following mass, while Evan headed to the HUB for cocktail hour photos, Kata, Nicho, and I sneaked away for an intimate couples photo session. Armed with Nicho’s favorite gummy bears, we ate, walked, and laughed our way to the reception venue.
As the sun started to set, we all moved to the Husky Union Building at the University of Washington for the reception. The location was really special to Kata because she is a UW alumnus!
The room was filled with tons of lively chatter, so much delicious food, lots of cakes, and most importantly, an overwhelming sense of love between literally every single person there.
And I’m not we’ll ever recover from the sweetest daddy-daughter first dance we’ve seen in a while. I mean.. how sweet was this moment!
And just 5 minutes later, we realized that Kata and Nicho had killer dance moves! It was seriously one of the most fun and dynamic couple’s first dance ever!
Of course, the crowd then joined in with their own epic moves. We love a crowd who’s not afraid to get down!
Thank you, Kata and Nicho, for inviting us into your best day ever! Here’s to a lifetime of joy, laughter, and lots of gummy bears!
Washington Wedding Photography
In the end, remember that your wedding day is all about love, laughter, and creating memories. No matter your budget, your day will be special because it’s YOUR day. And as your wedding photographers, we promise to capture every moment, big and small, to help you remember just how magical it was.
So keep planning, but don’t forget to have fun along the way!
michelle + evan
