More Than Just Tea: Inside the Chinese Wedding Tea Ceremony

More Than Just Tea: Inside the Chinese Wedding Tea Ceremony

June 24, 2018

Ever wondered why, at Chinese weddings, there’s a moment where everyone’s sipping tea and getting a bit emotional? It's not just a tea break; it's the tea ceremony, and it's packed with meaning, tradition, and some quirks you might not expect.

Why This Tea Party Rocks: First off, the tea ceremony isn’t just about drinking tea; it’s a heartfelt thank-you from the bride and groom to their families. It's like a public shout-out for all those years of love and support. And here’s a cool twist: it's the moment when the bride and groom officially switch up how they address each other's families - no more "Mr. and Mrs." but "Mom" and "Dad" or even “Uncle” and “Aunty”.

To Kneel or Not to Kneel: Back in the day, you’d find everyone kneeling. But let’s face it, times have changed. Many families now opt for standing – it’s easier on the knees and saves time, especially if you've got a big family!

The Tea Talk: You might be thinking, "It's just tea, right?" Well, it's not just about whether you're team Oolong or Jasmine. The secret ingredients are red dates and lotus seeds - symbols of everlasting love. Who knew a cup of tea could hold so much meaning?

The Great Tea Set Dilemma: Picking a tea set seems simple until you realize most come with just two to four cups. But what if you have a guest list that's longer than a grocery list? You either find extra cups (hint: not white ones!) or have a speedy cup-washer on hand.

Tea Cup Etiquette – To Drain or Not to Drain?: Here’s the deal – there’s no pressure to finish your tea. It's more about the gesture than the gulp. After all, you want to look calm and collected for the photos, not like you're in a tea-drinking marathon.

Bling or Cash? The Gifting Game: You’ve seen those brides decked out in gold, right? If you’re close to the couple, going the gold jewelry route is a classic. But don't sweat it if you can’t shower them with gold; a red packet (a fancy envelope with cash) is totally cool too. It’s the thought that counts, and it helps fund their honeymoon or new home!

Got More Questions?: We've only skimmed the surface here. If you’re curious about more tea ceremony tales or have your own stories to share, hit up the comment box below. Let's keep this tea party going!

 



Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in Weddings

Top 10 Heartfelt Wedding Readings for a Memorable Ceremony
Top 10 Heartfelt Wedding Readings for a Memorable Ceremony

August 04, 2024

Ever wanted to include a piece of loving and meaningful readings for your wedding? Here are my top 10 favourite selections that can add depth, emotion, and a touch of elegance to your special day.

Read More

The Timeless Tradition of the Wedding Veil
The Timeless Tradition of the Wedding Veil

June 04, 2024

The wedding veil is a timeless symbol, especially when paired with a white wedding dress. Its history and cultural significance are rich and varied, tracing back through centuries and across different civilisations. 

Read More

What Does a 1-Month Notice Period for Marriage Mean in Australia?
What Does a 1-Month Notice Period for Marriage Mean in Australia?

May 19, 2024

Unlike some countries where you can get married the next day, our law requires a minimum 1-month notice period before your wedding. If you're planning to get married, you need to engage a celebrant to lodge a notice of intended marriage. This period is often called a “cooling-off” period, giving couples time to seriously consider their decision and avoid rushing into marriage.

Read More