Meng and Martin’s wedding was a beautiful celebration of love, blending two rich cultural heritages — Chinese and Jewish traditions — all against the picturesque backdrop of Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham, Ontario. This venue, known for its scenic beauty, offered the perfect setting for their unforgettable day, featuring a charming clubhouse, a peaceful pond with a fountain, and a historic barn that added an extra touch of elegance and rustic charm.
The day began with Meng and Martin’s “first look”: when the couple had a private moment to see each other before the ceremony. As Martin turned around to see his bride for the first time, his joy was undeniable. This intimate moment was filled with so much love. Capturing Martin’s expression as he laid eyes on Meng in her gorgeous dress was magical, and I could tell it was the beginning of a day full of heartfelt moments.
What made Meng and Martin’s wedding truly unique was the fusion of their cultural backgrounds, blending Chinese and Jewish wedding customs, each rich with meaning and history.
The traditional Chinese tea ceremony is an ancient tradition that symbolizes respect and gratitude to the couple’s parents. Meng and Martin knelt before their parents, offering tea as a gesture of thanks for their love and guidance. In return, they received blessings and gifts: gold jewellery and red envelopes filled with good fortune.
On the Jewish side, the ceremony began with the bedeken, the veiling of the bride. In this tradition, Martin placed a veil over Meng’s face, which represented the groom’s commitment to love his bride for who she is, beyond just her physical beauty.
The couple also signed the ketuba, a Jewish marriage contract that outlines the couple’s commitments to one another. This document serves as a timeless testament to both their love and dedication to each other.
Their wedding ceremony took place under a chuppah, a canopy symbolizing the home the couple will build together. The open sides of the chuppah signify the welcoming of guests into their home and lives. Standing beneath it, surrounded by their loved ones, Meng and Martin exchanged their vows and their rings.
At the end of the ceremony, Martin intentionally broke a glass by stomping on it with his foot. The guests shouted, “Mazel Tov!” as a cheer of congratulations and joy for the newlyweds. This moment marked the transition from ceremony to celebration!
At the start of the dinner reception, everyone took to the dance floor for the horah, a lively Jewish circle dance. Meng and Martin were lifted high in chairs as their family and friends danced around them in joyous celebration. The energy was electric and contagious!
Later, during the dinner reception, there was a lively lion dance, a classic symbol of good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture. Dancers dressed as lions, with vibrant colours and graceful movements, which brought energy and excitement to the celebration. The lion is believed to drive away evil spirits and bring happiness to the couple’s marriage, making this tradition both engaging and meaningful.
Meng and Martin’s wedding at Angus Glen Golf Club was a perfect day, filled with love, celebration, and the coming together of two families and cultures. If you’re looking for a venue that combines elegance and natural beauty, Angus Glen Golf Club is a fantastic choice. And if you’re a couple planning a wedding that honours your cultural roots, Meng and Martin’s wedding is a perfect example of how to create a day that is uniquely yours.
Looking for more wedding inspiration or tips on how to plan your perfect day? Feel free to get in touch! I’d love to help capture the magic of your special day.
Angus Glen Golf Club Wedding
Photographer: Christopher Luk: Toronto Wedding Photographer
Wedding Venue: Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham, Ontario
Wedding Planner & Coordinator: Vivian Hong and Rachel Qian of Simple One Love
Cinematography / Videography: Wei Jia Ni Gallery One Productions
Makeup Artist & Hair Stylist: Rhia Amio of Artistrhi
Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Musicians: Stelth Ng of Toronto Wedding Strings
Officiant: Rabbi Michael Dolgin and Cantor Charles Osborne
Cupcake Tower: Bobette and Belle
Florist: Irene of Decorfleurever
MC & Singer: Kanna Qiu
DJ: Joey Styles
SEE MORE: Christopher Luk Photography Weddings
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