We are Scott & Kristine, husband and wife alternative wedding photographers behind Blue Elephant Photography. We are based in Oklahoma with our furry boy Fuji. We’re big fans of love, travel, and adventures which takes us to Colorado, New Mexico, Arkansas, Texas, Washington and across the world. We are passionate about documenting genuine and uninhibited love between two people because telling their story matters.
Alex and Mary’s wedding was one of the most amazing and memorable weddings we’ve ever had the honor of photographing. They are the nicest couple ever who exude style and class. They wanted to celebrate their union with a wedding that reflected both their Vietnamese and American cultures and they did a fantastic job of blending the traditions together. The wedding day started with a tea ceremony at Mary’s parents’ house, where the groom and his family came to ask for the bride’s hand in marriage. The tea ceremony is a very important and symbolic part of Vietnamese weddings, as it shows respect and gratitude to the elders and ancestors of both families. Alex and Mary wore traditional Vietnamese outfits, called ao dai. When Mary stepped out all in white, she was radiant like an angel. They served tea and received blessings and gifts from their parents and relatives. It was a very touching and emotional ceremony. After the tea ceremony, the couple headed to St. Andrew Dung-Lac Catholic Church for the ceremony, and changed into their Western wedding attire. Mary looked stunning in her white white lace gown, and Alex looked handsome in his black tux. The church was decorated with white flowers creating an elegant atmosphere.
The reception was held at the grand Gaillardia Country Club in Oklahoma City. With the sun shining and the sky blue, the guests were greeted with cocktails and Boba tea. The ballroom was transformed into a fairy tale setting with an abundance of white flowers everywhere and a five-tiered wedding cake masterpiece. Aside from the live band, the highlight of the reception was the surpirise traditional lion dance, which is a Vietnamese custom that brings good luck and fortune to the newlyweds. Dancers in colorful lion costumes performed a lively and energetic dance, accompanied by drums and cymbals. Alex and Mary had their own surprise for their guests. They changed into beautiful bright red ao dai which are the colors of luck and happiness. The rest of the night was filled with dancing, speeches, games, and laughter. It was hilarious and adorable watching them play table games and see how well they knew each other. Ending the night with a sparkler exit, it was a magical and unforgettable way to say goodbye.
Alex and Mary’s wedding was a beautiful blend of cultures, and a perfect representation of their love and personalities. I wish them all the best in their future together. Congratulations, Alex and Mary! Friends, thank you all for stopping by and please follow our latest work on Instagram!
Ceremony Venue: St. Andrew Dung-Lac Catholic Church
Reception Venue: Gaillardia Country Club
Planner: Bespoke Events
Flowers: Forever Borrowed
Signage: Creative Etch
Hair & Makeup: Dolled Up by Tiffany
Cake: Sugar & Whisk Baking Co.
Catering: Kim Son Catering
Band: IVINA Band
