Jenny is most definitely a foodie.
I first met her several years ago, when she was co-hosting a supper club in south west London, and she presented her guests with a gastronomical feast worthy of a Michelin star. Her parents are originally from China, so she was brought up in a culture where food plays a central role; it is a sensuous experience that brings joy to all.
When Jenny met Irishman Ed, he took the bold step of inviting her to a dim sum restaurant on their first date. A touch over-confident possibly, but she was still impressed. In fact, she was won over by his charm, intelligence and his relaxed, good-natured way. They fell in love, enjoyed many more culinary delights together, and have shared their love of travel, food and adventure ever since.
Their modern London wedding took place in the luxury and splendour of the Grosvenor Hotel, a grand Victorian establishment on Buckingham Palace Road, which ushered in a Golden Age of Travel when it was built in 1862 by Victoria station.
A stylish and romantic civil ceremony was held in the Orient Suite followed by an elegant champagne reception. After a change of outfit by Jenny, a traditional Chinese tea ceremony was held before an incredible twelve course wedding banquet at The Royal Imperial Chinese restaurant.
It was a day so rich in culture and celebration; the best a wedding photographer can ever hope for. It was such a joy to watch the moments unfold, and see the guests reaction to the incredible feast before them.
Jenny and Ed, thank you so much for choosing me as your photographer and I wish you both a long and happy marriage – full of love and adventure. And excellent food, of course!
Jenny spent the morning with her bridesmaids in the Cora Pearl suite at The Grosvenor Hotel. Her sister Wendy was in charge of bridal make-up with help and moral support from her sister Susan and the rest of her bridesmaids.
The Chinese believe in fate. Legend has it that the gods would tie an invisible red lace around the ankle of the son of one family and the daughter of another family, who are to marry some day. As time passes, the red knot brings them closer without any need of effort from either person. The lives intertwine at the perfect moment.
Jenny changed into a beautiful red silk Chinese wedding dress by before the tea ceremony.
The traditional Chinese tea ceremony is the equivalent of an exchange of vows between the bride and groom and their families.
A 12 course Chinese wedding banquet representing happiness, longevity and fertility was bestowed upon Jenny and Ed’s wedding guests on Saturday. A menu card was placed on each table explaining the meaning behind each dish.
- Photographer – Siobhan H Photography
- Bridal gown – Pronovias
- Bride’s shoes: Guess
- Chinese wedding dress: Hong Kong Boutique
- Grooms suit: Canali
- Venue – Grosvenor Hotel and Grand Imperial restaurant
- Flowers – Gingerlily Flowers
- Hair and make up – Wendy Jim Foreman