tying the knot

This week my roommate and I had the opportunity to travel to a Chinese wedding with a friend. I knew this would be a neat way to experience this culture but I had no idea what would be in store! Usually Chinese weddings are held in hotels but this one was outside. We were in a "resort" style location about an hour outside of the city.

European style...but still Chinese flair

The morning of the wedding we woke up and asked our friend what time the wedding would start. She still didn't know what time the festivities would begin...so I've been forced to learn to roll with the punches this year. We grabbed breakfast and arrived at this field...

their engagement photos on billboards!

Around 150 or 200 people were waiting for the wedding to begin.  While we waited, we played some group games in the field. Even though everyone was speaking Chinese and we felt clueless, everyone wanted the foreigners on their team! I enjoyed the carefree and playful atmosphere as we prepared for the ceremony. And then the performers showed up...

marching band? they had various talents

they changed into these outfits...

and these too...

Not only did they have dancers but also actresses to perform a skit. And finally the bride and groom showed up in a decorated car. And everyone ran from their seats to the road...

the bridesmaids put on the dancers' outfits...

with the rings on

I'm experiencing more new things about this culture every day.