Hmong Australian Wedding Day

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As we were finishing breakfast Su arrived with the flower girls, her sister Pla and niece La La. I walked up to the square with them then we caught a taxi to the new market to buy their shoes and accessories for the wedding. Back at the hotel the girls showered and then they went to get their hair and make-up done. Some hours later they returned to dress for the wedding. Meanwhile Malcolm had joined Glenn at the venue. We took some photos on the hotel terrace before the arrival of the wedding car (Luu and Tuyen's) which was decorated with ribbons and flowers. I went in to the venue first greeted with hugs from Grandma Si, Su's mother Khu and others. Next the flower girls walked in scattering rose petals and then Su's father Vang walked her in to Glenn. They kissed and then it was time for lots of photos with everyone. The venue was beautifully decorated and there were also helium balloons which the children loved. There was a magnificent fresh floral archway as well as decorations around the main entry. The seating was arranged with groups of tables as well as long low tables which are preferred by the Hmong and the backs of the chairs were decorated with soft tulle and flowers. There's were also lovely vases of roses and orchids on all the tables. The food was very nice (slow cooked pork, fresh and fried spring rolls, fried chicken, stir fry and rice). The book of messages from home was on display and there was an ornate box for gift envelopes. After the meal Glenn and Su said some vows to each other and then Su' parents spoke, one of their friends translating into English. Malcolm also spoke for us and his words were translated into Hmong. Glenn and Su cut their three level cake and then Su threw the bouquet. Gradually the guests began to leave and we stayed and chatted to the expat group for a while before walking back to the hotel.

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