Romantic Garden Wedding Blends Chinese and Western Traditions

As college sweethearts, Yuhan Fan and Xu Li built a relationship on their deep love of nature. So, when it came time to choose a location for their big day, the picturesque oasis of the Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden in Palo Alto reflected their passion and romance perfectly. The couple began their morning embracing Chinese traditions in their home, dressed in red to signify love, success, happiness and luck, along with many other things. Yuhan and Xu’s family also decorated their home and bed with the color, preparing the bride and groom for their new lives together. Moving to the historic home at the gardens, Yuhan wore a traditional red and gold qipao for their Chinese Tea Ceremony—an opportunity for the bride and groom to express their respect and gratitude towards their parents. The pair then changed into western-style attire, a traditional black tux for Xu and a strapless column gown with a sweetheart neckline and a stunning tulle train for Yuhan, before saying their vows under a flower arch surrounded by the gorgeous greenery of the gardens. Held under a grand tree in the center of the courtyard, the reception utilized the natural beauty of the gardens, wildflowers and the backyard-like feel to create an unforgettable experience for the intimate gathering. While their guests were busy with dinner, Yuhan and Xu took a moment for themselves to chat, enjoy the simple presence of one another and have a private dance inside the house. Feeling wholly together, the newlyweds were hand in hand as they returned to the reception and all of their most treasured friends and family.