Wedding tea ceremony
The Chinese wedding tea ceremony: a couple serving their elders, one cup at a time.
How the ceremony goes
Seat the elders
Parents sit. The couple stands or kneels on cushions in front of them. The groom's family often goes first, though families differ.
Serve with both hands
Lift the cup with both hands, call the elder by family title and invite them to drink. That title makes you family.
Receive the blessing
The elder sips, says a blessing and gives a red envelope or jewelry, sometimes gold bangles. Then the next elder sits down.
One cup of tea, and you call them Mom and Dad.
Choosing a set
Wedding tea ceremony
Hand-picked pieces are on the way.
Good to know
What happens at a Chinese wedding tea ceremony?
The couple serves tea to parents and elders, calling each by family title. The elder sips, gives a blessing and usually a red envelope or jewelry. It is how the families formally accept each other.
What tea is used in a Chinese wedding tea ceremony?
Most families use a sweet tea, often with red dates, longan and lotus seeds. Those ingredients traditionally wish the couple children soon. Some families simply use a good black tea.
When is the tea ceremony at a Chinese wedding?
Usually on the wedding day, often in the morning at home or just before the banquet. Some families hold it the next day, so ask both sets of parents early.
