As the love loomed over the private estate in Shenzhen, China, a sense of tranquility and love filled the air as Jessie and Diya exchanged their vows in an intimate bridal celebration. The couple's wedding was a testament to their commitment to each other and their shared values, focused on minimalism and sustainability, creating an unforgettable experience that reflected their unique story. Nestled within a charming courtyard, the couple's choice of venue set the stage for a wedding that was a blend of timelessness and contemporary flair steeped in pristine white décor that exuded understated elegance. The abundance of delicate floral blooms throughout the venue, the romantic setting from ceremony to reception and the stunning tablescape with moss – all created a real life wedding masterpiece.
Tell us a little about yourselves. How did you meet? What do you do for a living? What are your hobbies?
Our friendship took root in their junior high, sprouting from the fertile ground of shared experiences. As we journeyed from adolescence into young adulthood, our connection remained a steadfast presence amidst the ever-changing tides of life. For over 14 years, we cherished our bond as mere friends. Yet, as the years rolled by, a subtle shift began to stir. What had once been a simple friendship started to bloom with newfound depth. Like a gentle awakening, the undeniable truth emerged — romantic feelings that had silently grown stronger could no longer be ignored. Thus, at the crossroads of friendship and love, we found ourselves perched on the cusp of a deeper journey. Hand in hand, we stepped over the threshold, ready to explore the vast, yet intimate landscape of love that waited with open arms. I am a creative director, and Diya is an analyst. We also share a deep passion for the arts and classical music.
Can you share your engagement story?
In the midst of the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, we found ourselves in different countries. Diya embarked on a new job opportunity in China, while I remained in Canada. The physical separation lasted for nearly two years, putting our connection to the test. However, despite the distance, we remained engaged, showcasing our unwavering commitment to each other. With the aid of technology, we nurtured our relationship and kept our love alive across the miles. Despite not being physically together, our hearts remained connected, and we embraced the promise of a shared future.
Where was your wedding? Why did you choose this venue?
We envisioned their wedding to be held in Shenzhen, the place where our paths first crossed and where cherished childhood memories were forged. Unlike typical local weddings, characterized by grand hotel ballrooms and lavish feasts, we longed for an intimate and heartfelt celebration. We desired to create an unforgettable experience for our closest family and friends, one that would be etched in our memories for years to come.
To bring our vision to life, we embarked on a search for a private estate with a charming courtyard. Donning multiple hats as both the bride and the wedding stylist, I yearned for a venue that would offer creative freedom to design something truly unique.
What was the concept behind your wedding and how did you find your inspiration?
With an unwavering vision in mind, I consistently strive for a blend of class, timelessness, and a touch of contemporary flair. As a seasoned designer, I possess an intimate understanding of my unique style — one characterized by minimalism, luminosity, and an intricate balance. Every element I touch is exquisitely curated to exude a sense of pristine purity.
For my wedding, I yearned to maintain an air of understated elegance while infusing it with a palette of textures, masterfully woven through fabric and an array of floral selections. The simplicity of form will serve as the cornerstone, while an abundance of intricate details shall breathe life into every aspect of the occasion. In a quest to make the most of the soaring ceilings in the elegant hall, my creative vision took flight. With a desire to harness the vertical space, I devised a minimalistic staircase, crafted from an abundance of delicate floral blossoms, gracefully ascended from the grand piano and reached towards the expanse of the ceiling above.
The staircase, predominantly adorned with the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms, mirrored the enchanting movement of music notes as we ascended and swirled throughout the space. This captivating arrangement drew the eyes upward, guiding the gaze along the floral path that seemed to intertwine with the very essence of the melodies performed. The wedding reception décor was thoughtfully divided into three parts, each glowing its own unique charm and ambiance. The first part catered to the families, with an elegant indoor setup, while the second part was designed for the friends, featuring an inviting outdoor arrangement. Additionally, there was a romantic balcony setup that truly captured everyone's hearts, serving as a delightful space for mingling, sipping drinks, and soaking in the enchanting atmosphere.
The dominant color scheme throughout the reception was pristine white, creating an ethereal and timeless backdrop. To infuse depth and richness, accents of iliac and celadon were introduced, harmoniously joining the color family. This carefully curated palette complemented my second look flawlessly, achieving a delicate balance between Western modernism and a subtle Oriental undertone.
The indoor dinner setup remained consistent before and after the recital. Long tables were adorned with meticulously chosen ivory fine linen tablecloths that gracefully cascaded to the floor. A stunning tablescape comprised of ranunculus, panicum, ginger, mosses, figs, cherry tomatoes, and giant alliums intertwined with reeded glass candle holders adorned the center. The texture of the reeded glass echoed the intricate details of the bridal gown. A selection of soy candles in iliac, celadon, and off-white hues, varying in height, further enhanced the organic arrangement across the long dining table.
The outdoor reception setup was truly magical, akin to a scene change between acts in an opera. With a touch of enchantment, the ceremony space seamlessly transformed into the reception area during the recital. While the centerpiece remained unchanged, the aisle was artfully replaced by dining tables and mesmerizing tablescapes. As the sunlight gradually faded, the night descended, and the warm glow of candles illuminated the surroundings, a captivating ambiance enveloped the space. With our hearts filled with beautiful music from the recital, guests marveled at the stunning setup when we stepped out for the reception dinner.
In addition to the reception dining decor, the balcony area was adorned with long candles and fine sand, creating an inviting space for guests to enjoy drinks and engage in conversations. Overlooking the main courtyard, the balcony offered a breathtaking view, radiating an ultra-romantic and dreamy atmosphere that added to the overall enchantment of the occasion.
How long did it take to plan your wedding? Did you encounter any challenges during the planning process?
In the realm of wedding planning, I embarked on a whirlwind journey to organize my special day within the span of a single month. Despite initially entrusting the task to a wedding planner, our hopes were shattered as we discovered a lack of professionalism, disorganization, and unoriginality in the planner's approach. Determined to bring our vision to life, I took charge of the project, diving headfirst into the demanding realm of event design. Juggling multiple responsibilities, I tackled the task of creating unique and personalized designs, while simultaneously securing vendors and sourcing essential elements. Amidst the hustle and bustle, my unwavering dedication ensured that all my artistic visions materialized into a breathtaking reality, resulting in a wedding celebration that surpassed all expectations.
How many guests did you have? And what was the seating arrangement at the wedding like?
With a guest count of 60, our wedding exuded an intimate atmosphere, carefully curated to celebrate our union. The reception saw a thoughtful arrangement, as family members enjoyed the cozy ambiance indoors, while friends gathered in the open air, relishing in the early summer night.
Tell us about your outfits. How many different styles have you tried?
My first ceremony look showcased a perfect blend of architectural elegance and delicate charm. I chose the Newhite gown, featuring pleated white satin and a minimalistic form. Pairing it seamlessly, I opted for Loeffler Randall heels in a matching color and fabric. For my second reception look, I wanted to embrace the Chinese tradition with a qipao, but with a modern twist. Disappointed by the available options, I decided to create my own. After extensive searching, I found a rare silk fabric with soft, unsaturated colors and subtle silver embroidery from Japan. Collaborating with a local tailor, I conveyed my vision for a slightly loose fit that maintained elegance. To my delight, I stumbled upon a vintage Manolo Blahnik shoe that perfectly complemented the colors and style of my qipao. The harmonious union of the two created an understated yet luxurious look that exuded unparalleled elegance. The ensemble paid homage to my ethnic tradition while embodying a sense of refined sophistication. Diya wore a bespoke indigo velvet suit. The rich fabric hugged his frame, giving off a subtle, dignified air. A shade of indigo that mirrored the evening sky gave his outfit a hint of classic elegance. With just the right amount of sheen when he moved, the velvet added a touch of luxury without overstatement.
In a heartwarming and whimsical tribute to our three beloved feline children, we made sure our furry companions were not left out on our special day. Recognizing the significance of family, even the four-legged members, we decided to bring our cats along to witness our heartfelt exchange of vows. To ensure their comfort and participation, we ingeniously crafted custom costumes for our furry kids. Knowing that cats typically dislike wearing anything, we opted for tailored bows instead. The two boys wore stylish indigo velvet bows, mirroring the fabric of Diya's suit, while the girl cat donned a charming bow tie made from the exact same fabric used in my exquisite bridal gown. This delightful gesture highlighted the couple's deep love and consideration for our feline family members and added a touch of whimsy and joy to our wedding celebration.
My creative touch extended to both the engagement ring and the wedding bands, resulting in exceptional pieces that stood out from traditional designs. The engagement ring broke away from conventions with its elegant offset arrangement of five claws, adding a sense of dynamic beauty beyond the usual options of four or six claws. Inspired by music, the concept behind the wedding bands symbolized unity through the metaphor of a "whole note." Representing us as two half notes coming together to form a complete whole, these bands embodied our harmonious union and the profound sense of completeness we found in each other. My thoughtful designs beautifully captured the essence of our relationship, showcasing our unique connection and the depth of our love. In a nod to ancestral heritage, the majority of the jewelry worn on the day bore deep significance as heirlooms passed down through generations. To complement my traditional qipao look, I sought out an artisan skilled in the ancient craft of coiled flower, also known as "chanhua." The artisan expertly used colored silk threads to create a stunning orchid hairpin with an organic form. This bespoke accessory added a touch of elegance and cultural significance to my look. Additionally, the artisan crafted an unconventional button that blended tradition with modernity, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the ensemble.
Did you have any special performances or entertainment?
In a testament to our shared passion for classical music, we, a pianist and violinist, made a bold decision for our wedding entertainment. Instead of opting for a conventional band or chamber ensemble, we took the center stage ourselves, presenting a spellbinding recital to delight our guests. The performance commenced with my solo of Grieg's "Lyrical Piece", a delightful and spring-like short piece. A seamless collaboration followed as we played Korngold's "Mond, so gehst du wieder auf," an art song poetically capturing the emotions of love in the face of distance. This heartfelt expression of our own experiences resonated deeply with our audience. The recital reached its pinnacle with Schumann's "Widmung," a profound dedication to each other, leaving an indelible mark of our love and musical prowess. Our decision to enchant our guests with this intimate recital created a truly memorable experience for all in attendance.
What was the most memorable moment from your wedding day?
As the whirlwind of the wedding day settled and the enchanting recital concluded, we found ourselves immersed in a truly magical moment. Stepping away from the festivities, we retreated to the serene balcony, surrounded by flickering candlelights. From this vantage point, we gazed down upon the courtyard, taking in the breathtaking scene we had meticulously crafted and surrounded by our cherished family and friends. In this tranquil setting, we savored a private moment all to ourselves, raising our glasses in a heartfelt toast, our hearts brimming with gratitude and appreciation for the beauty of the design and the love that filled us throughout this unforgettable celebration.
Are there any vendors that you would like to tell us a little more about?
Our search for a distinctive wedding style led them through countless interviews with planners, only to find uninspired ideas and cookie-cutter approaches. Committed to authenticity, I courageously stepped up to plan and style the event myself. Despite being a novice in event planning, I dived into the logistics with gusto. I carefully handpicked vendors and built a team to execute my bespoke vision. I skillfully married each element of decor, seamlessly blending them into a cohesive concept that brought my vision to life. The task was formidable, yet it gave me a profound satisfaction. While I spearheaded the wedding preparations, the supportive pillars were our parents, whose belief in my vision and hands-on assistance were crucial in turning ambitious plans into a genuine celebration of our journey.
What advice would you give to couples who are currently planning their wedding?
Give yourself enough time.
Were there national/religious traditions at your wedding and how did you implement them?
At the heart of the wedding, I yearned for a centerpiece that would embody the sacredness of my faith on this momentous day. I envisioned a sacred symbol — a cross and an arch — that would evoke the sanctity of a church setting without falling into the trap of conventionality. With a true artist's eye and a visionary spirit, I poured my heart into creating a centerpiece that would stand tall and exude reverence. The result was a 6-meter tall, monument-like installation. To soften the imposing presence that such grandeur might bring, I enveloped the iron structure of the arch with translucent satin, allowing a gentle diffusion of light to cascade through its ethereal folds. And the cross was not to be a mere plain and predictable icon. Collaborating closely with the florist, I breathed life into a delicate cross made of dried hydrangeas. Each petal danced gracefully, uniting to form the sacred silhouette, an embodiment of my faith. Along the simple yet sacred aisle, delicate whispers of floral companions echoed the solemnity of the occasion. Together, we wove a tapestry of faith and reverence, creating a visual symphony that resonated with the depth of emotions filling the air on this extraordinary day.
Did you have any special or unique elements (such as a signature cocktail or a fragrance) at your wedding?
Diya and I, drawing on our shared history and international experiences, devised a unique and visually captivating method for our wedding guests to check in. Inspired by Diya's visualization concept, we created a time roll, with the x-axis representing time and the y-axis denoting their geographic locations. This ingenious display allowed guests to easily trace the couple's journey and pinpoint significant moments of connection. I enhanced the idea by embroidering our intersecting paths — initially close, then diverging as we pursued individual experiences, and ultimately converging again as we began dating and embarked on shared international adventures. This interactive guestbook encouraged attendees to sign their names at the spot and time where we first encountered the couple, fostering lively conversations among arriving guests who were unfamiliar with one another. After the wedding, we proudly framed the signing roll, transforming it into a cherished keepsake displayed in our home — a beautiful reminder of our intertwined lives and the love-filled journey we embarked upon together.
Did you make a gift for guests, and what was it? What did you give each other as a gift?
We both are driven by our sustainable mindset, so we were determined to ensure that our wedding celebration would not leave behind a trail of waste and extravagance. We recognized the inherent value in preserving the essence of our special day, allowing our guests to carry a tangible piece of the event as a cherished memory. Right from the early stages of planning, I harbored a vision of providing guests with keepsakes that would embody the spirit of their wedding while minimizing environmental impact. For local guests, a delightful surprise awaited as they were presented with fresh florals and vegetables that had graced the tablescape and adorned the venue. For guests who had traveled from afar, carefully dried bouquets, arranged by skilled florists, awaited them. These enduring blooms symbolized the everlasting nature of love and the lasting impression the celebration had left on our hearts.
Wedding Stylist and Planner: Jessie Ning
Photographer: Chenguang Han
Videographer: Bin Gao
Bride's Dress: for the first look Newhite, for the second look original design by Jessie Ning
Bride’s Shoes: for the first look Loeffler Randall, for the second look Manolo Blahnik
Gromms Formal Wear: Bespoke
Wedding Rings: original designs by Jessie Ning
Stationary: Jessie Ning
Florist: Hong Zhou
