Jasper & Deborah’s Korean Tea Ceremony & Wedding

One of my favorite things about being a Temecula wedding photographer is hearing the back story of how a couple met. I know that most people now meet online which is totally cool, but whenever I get to hear a real unique story I always get a little pumped. And that was certainly the case with Jasper and Deborah. Bizarrely, these two met while flying solo to Thailand last December. As the plane started to disembark, the soon-to-be couple exchanged pleasantries. Somehow, Jasper managed to persuade Deborah to join him for a ferry ride to Krabi, likely charming her with his Cross Fit anecdotes and subtle bicep flexes (or as he calls them “guns”).

Once Jasper and Deborah met up again, they spent the next 4 days together enjoying the Thai life of riding elephants, drinking warm beers, and rocking karaoke at dive bars. Unfortunately, the holiday ended and they both went back to their respective ends of the world – Jasper in Los Angeles, and Deborah in Singapore. They both tried very hard to forget each other but couldn’t, mostly due to Jasper constantly sending photos of himself at Cross Fit. Deborah also coincidentally, had a ticket to California she had to use so they ended up meeting again in July… that was when they decided they wanted to be together. Things started moving very fast as they planned a wedding in Temecula while still working on the opposite ends of the Earth. Oh, and they also planned on moving together to Australia a week after the wedding. So yeah it was all nuts! Below are a handful of photos from their traditional Korean tea ceremony and intimate wedding in Temecula!

Korean Tea Ceremony Photographer

In the past, I have photographed Chinese weddings, Indian weddings, Filipino wedding traditions, and other unique traditions important to brides and grooms. However, this was my first experience capturing a traditional ceremony with the wedding guests and family drinking tea, expressing gratitude, and simply showing good love for one another. The Paebaek ceremony was really amazing to photograph from the colorful traditional Korean wedding dresses to the authentic emotion.

Korean Destination Wedding

“We chose to get married in Temecula because we wanted something less busy and laid back that our families would both enjoy. The plan was to have a relaxed weekend with both families (and 5-7 friends) staying in an Airbnb we rented and using the backyard of the property for a garden wedding. After the small intimate wedding ceremony, our guests would be treated to food from a pizza truck as well as cocktails! The wedding would be fun, but we also wanted to keep it simple and elegant, focusing on God and honoring our parents/families. Jasper and I are of different cultures (he is Korean American, I’m Singaporean Chinese) so celebrating the coming together of 2 families was very important.”

Congratulations once more, Jasper and Deborah! Photographing your intimate Korean tea ceremony and Temecula wedding was indeed an honor. As you journey to Australia, I hope these photos bring joy. May each image spark a smile mid-flight, reminding you of shared moments. Rest assured, I’ll have all photos edited and ready upon your arrival. Your new home will be welcomed by these cherished memories.

The privilege of hearing your story was humbling. Participating in the culturally significant tea ceremony was a unique experience. Above all, the opportunity to meet you both was enlightening.

To two extraordinary individuals, my sincerest well wishes in Australia! As you embark on future adventures, remember: you have my heartfelt cheers!

Korean Tea Ceremony Wedding Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Paebaek ceremony in Korean tradition?

A Paebaek ceremony is a fundamental part of traditional Korean wedding ceremonies. It’s a private, family-only event that occurs after the main wedding. The newlyweds serve tea to their parents and relatives, engaging in a series of half-bows and deep bows. In return, they receive words of wisdom, blessings, and often, money in white envelopes. This ceremony symbolizes the joining of two families rather than just two individuals.

What is the significance of dates and chestnuts in a Paebaek tea ceremony?

Dates and chestnuts hold a special place in the Paebaek tea ceremony. The bride’s mother traditionally throws these to the couple who try to catch them using her wedding skirt. The number caught is said to predict the number of children (dates for girls, chestnuts for boys) the couple will have. This engaging tradition is often captured in wedding videography, providing a charming highlight in any real wedding video.

What is the role of piggyback rides and wild geese in Korean weddings?

Piggyback rides and wild geese have symbolic roles in Korean weddings. The groom giving piggyback rides to his bride signifies his willingness to support and carry her throughout their life together. On the other hand, wild geese, often represented by a pair of wooden geese, symbolize fidelity. Geese mate for life and represent a commitment to each other and to their future offspring.

What are appropriate gifts for a Korean wedding ceremony?

Yes, it’s customary to give money in white envelopes as gifts at Korean weddings. This tradition extends to both the main ceremony and the Paebaek tea ceremony. While the amount can vary, it should be in odd numbers, as even numbers are considered bad luck. These white envelopes are usually given by the guests to the groom’s parents at the reception.