A St. Monica’s Catholic Church Wedding

Monica and Nhan planned a classic Mobile wedding that also incorporated several Vietnamese traditions. When we first met to talk about their timeline, Monica explained that in the Vietnamese culture a tea ceremony is held prior to the wedding ceremony.

For the tea ceremony, Nhan and his family would arrive from his family home, bringing gifts to Monica’s family home. Both families present gifts to the bride and groom during the tea ceremony. Monica told me beforehand, that this part of the day would be completely candid. As much as I love portraits, candid photographs are what first drew me to photography. I loved watching for those unplanned, spontaneous moments during the tea ceremony!

After the tea ceremony, we headed to Monica’s childhood church, which just happens to be St. Monica’s Catholic Church. I have visited many of our Catholic churches in Mobile, but I’d never been to St. Monica’s. I was blown away by how beautiful this church is! I couldn’t stop marveling at all the beautiful mosaics and the stained glass windows. This church is definitely a treasure for our city!

The Tradition of Toasting

Another Vietnamese tradition that Monica and Nhan incorporated into their day was the reception toasting. After dinner, Monica and Nhan, along with their parents and bridal party, visited each table of guests. The tradition of toasting their guests and thanking them for coming, ensures that everyone gets a chance to greet the bride and groom.

Once the toasting was complete, Monica, Nhan and their friends hit the dance floor for lots of party dancing! I loved that Ft. Whiting provided plenty of space for the dinner tables and a large dance floor area. This was my first wedding reception at this venue and it did not disappoint!

VENDORS

Photography by Elizabeth Gelineau

Second Photographer | Regina Gomez-Guillen

Photographer Assistant | Ian Hale

Photographer Assistant | Alina Malina

Church | St. Monica’s Catholic Church

Venue | Fort Whiting

Getting Ready Location | The Battle House Hotel

Bridal Details Photographed at Fort Conde Inn

Makeup Artist | Tyler Huber

Hair | Mary Nguyen

Florist | Cleveland

Caterer | Ba Mien

Cake | Pollman’s

Cocktail Hour | Hannison

Bartenders | Staff Bar Company

Marquee Letters | Rent the Lights

Suits | Indochino New Orleans

Bride’s Gown | Bliss Bridal

DJ | Samantha Teague

Photo Booth | Envog Events

Transportation | Gulf Coast Tours