Tea ceremonies are one of the most important parts of Chinese weddings, sometimes intimate events with only close family and other times for all wedding guests to watch.
The bride often first serves tea to her parents the morning of the wedding, representing her gratitude to them. Another tea ceremony later takes place in which the bride is formally introduced to the groom's family. Here the bride and groom serve tea to the groom's parents and extended family.
The newlyweds are then given gifts of jewelry or money in red envelopes by the groom's family in return.
Sweet teas are often used to symbolize the sweetness of the marriage and different teas hold different meanings. For example, a tea with lotus seeds and red dates is representative of fertility.
The couple gets to keep the tea set used, and in the future it is passed down to their own daughter for her wedding.
I love learning about these traditions and the meaning behind them. Much more meaningful than removing garters and tossing bouquets.
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