Chinese Lion Dances for Weddings

Photos by Visionari

Lion dances at Chinese weddings bring the newlyweds good fortune and ward off evil spirits. For additional excitement, we have suggested that couples consider the "wow factor" of having the lions perform on poles or jongs, where their acrobatics are sure to impress.

Some things to consider: make sure the jongs and bases can fit through service corridors and entryways, if the reception is to take place inside. If outdoors, have a representative from the lion dance team scout the area to make sure that they can safely and feasibly set their equipment at that site. Things like exceptionally windy areas and unlevel surfaces can make it challenging or even unrealistic to perform the lion dance on poles under such circumstances.

Additional note: check with the particular lion dance team if they prefer that the lions be fed with a pole and leafy vegetable, or if they prefer that the bride and groom feed the lions by hand. Best wishes for good fortune, luck, and prosperity for the happy couple!

Featured Wedding #11: Kana and Kin Men

Photos by Visionari

One of the many things I love about my job is building relationships with some exceptionally wonderful people. This past weekend, I attended a baby shower for Kana and Kin Men, a couple that is expecting their first child later this month, and a couple whose wedding we planned. I couldn't be happier for them as they start their family.


Planning their wedding with Kana and Kin proved to be yet another enjoyable and rewarding process. Their personalities really showed through in the details of their wedding, which successfully combined elegance with fun, drama with style, and of course, a included bit of romance as well.




The invitations provided guests with the first hint of the not-so-serious wedding that was to be had. Humorous caricatures of Kana and Kin made the invitations (not one, but two versions of it!) a huge hit. One of the caricatures featured a rendition of the couple as in "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" while the other depicted Kana holding a polka-dot boxer-wearing Kin upside-down by his ankle.


Upon arrival at the wedding reception at the Halekulani, guests enjoyed cocktails from the ice luge with the Chinese character for Kin Men's last name in crimson.

Shortly after taking their seats, an acrobatic Chinese lion dance on pole tops stunned the audience with their awe-inspiring, coordinated moves.


Here, chocolate fondant ribbons draping from the top to the bottom of the cake add a bit of whimsy to the otherwise elegant wedding cake with fresh rose blossoms.

Congratulations, Kana and Kin! I look forward to meeting your new daughter soon!