Modern & Elegant Royal Glenora Club Wedding
Jessica and Brandon’s modern wedding at the Royal Glenora Club
A wedding day filled to the brim with joy and elegance
Jessica and Brandon’s wedding day kicked off with door games. In Chinese culture, it is traditional for the groom to complete several ‘challenges’ set forth by the bridesmaids so that he may be worthy enough to ‘win’ his bride. Jessica’s bridesmaids did such a great job coming up with creative activities for the groomsmen. Jessica and Brandon had a huge focus on creating a day where they could spend as much time celebrating and having as much fun as possible with all of their family and friends. With the door games complete and Jessica revealing herself in her traditional red dress, she did a quick change into her white gown and set off for a first look with Brandon.
Private vows under the trees
Jessica and Brandon took time to share their private vows alone before meeting up with the rest of their wedding party for group photos. Their wedding party also brought along their fur baby, Kumo! While their wedding venue does not allow dogs, I loved that the two of them made time for some portraits with their furry family member during the day.
Portraits at Baijiu
Baijiu, a gorgeous Asian-inspired bar and eatery here in Edmonton, graciously welcomed us in for some wedding party shots (both photo and liquor variety). Jessica wanted her images to feel relaxed and fun, yet editorial - something that the fun art and neon lights of Baijiu definitely helped with! It was so much fun to create in such a unique space.
Hosting a traditional tea ceremony
Family and friends were at the forefront of the couples’ minds as they planned their wedding day. Jessica and Brandon chose to host a tea ceremony for close family after their Western ceremony, with Jessica changing back into her red dress and taking the time to exchange tea and well-wishes with their loved ones. Tea ceremonies are meant to show honour and respect to the families of the newlyweds. I find this such a beautiful expression of love and gratitude!
A glamourous and fun reception at the Royal Glenora Club
A grand entrance
Jessica and Brandon really brought the energy for their grand entrance! Instead of introducing each person at once, the whole party entered together to an upbeat song, donning sunglasses and spraying faux cash from a money gun. The hype was next level!
Sunset portraits
It was important to the couple to be able to step out for sunset photos. While this isn’t always possible, when we have as gorgeous of a sunset as we did this night, who could possibly resist?! I also just love using sunset photos as an excuse for couples to be able to have a bit of a break from the party. It’s the perfect opportunity to grab a drink, go for a walk in the fresh air, and really bask in that newly married bliss!
Wedding toasts!
It’s common in many cultures for the couple to visit each and every table of guests in the evening after dinner to personally thank their guests for coming, and to be able to say hi to everyone!
Meaningful first dances
Jessica said she was looking forward to their first dance, as her and Brandon had choreographed their first dance with the help of an instructor and dance lessons. They had so much fun, smiling and laughing as they tried to remember their steps. Jessica also honoured her 101-year old grandfather who was present by sharing a short dance with him in addition to their parent dances.
The wedding party made one final outfit change for an epic champagne pop on the patio to get the party started!
Edmonton wedding vendors
Photography: Janine Rose | Planning & Coordination: Nicole from RB Events | Venue & Catering: Royal Glenora Club | Videography: Parfait Weddings | Photo location: Baijiu | Florals: Twinflower Studio | Hair & makeup: Sen Studios | Rentals: Knotwood Event Rentals | Dress: Lis Simon | Suit: Maxwell’s Clothiers