We had the privilege last month of photographing a style of wedding that was a first for us. Annie and Thomas had a traditional Cambodian wedding ceremony one day, followed by an incredible reception the next. The wedding ceremony usually takes place over a few days, but Annie and Thomas condensed it all into one. We started on a Friday just after sunrise. Annie’s home was filled with incense and flowers. As she donned her first traditional wedding outfit, Thomas’ family prepared for the procession. This symbolizes the journey of the prince Preah Thong to meet his bride the princess Neang Neak. The groom’s procession approaches the bride’s home bearing wrapped platters of gifts, usually fruits and Khmer desserts, and is led by a band of musicians and singers. Next was the “Blessing from the Monks”, the exchange of rings, followed by the Hair Cutting Ceremony. This is where their hair is symbolically cut, representing a fresh start to their new relationship together as husband and wife. Annie and Thomas finished with the Pairing Ceremony. In this final and most memorable stage of the wedding, family members and friends tie the bride and groom’s left and right wrists with blessing strings. The praises and well-wishes of happiness, good health, success, prosperity, and long-lasting love are acknowledged and witnessed by the loud sound of the gong and joyful cheer. The ceremony concluded with a shower of palm flowers thrown over the new couple. The ceremony was beautiful and rich with culture. The next day the festivities continued at the San Gabriel Valley Hilton. Kim Bradford and her team created a gorgeous room using soft whites, pinks and gold. Square Root Designs created beautiful centerpieces and even custom made the lazy susans to fit around the centerpiece. Amazing! The lazy susans were perfect for the 10 course Chinese dinner that was the highlight of the evening. After dinner the guests danced the night away on the circular champagne colored dance floor and enjoyed both Western and Cambodian music. Annie looked regal in her hand made golden gown as did Thomas in his custom suit. We wish them a life full of happiness and good fortune! Here are some favorites from the day. Enjoy!
Here is Joe in step with the servers (middle back). Next to that was the dish he captured. Pretty cool!
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