Asian Weddings at 440 Elm

Asian weddings are as diverse and vibrant as the cultures they represent, with each tradition offering unique rituals, attire, and celebrations. At 440 Elm, our historic Renaissance Revival venue provides an exquisite backdrop for honoring these beautiful customs while offering a modern, luxurious setting. With its grand ballroom, outdoor spaces, and historic charm, 440 Elm is the perfect canvas for crafting unforgettable weddings that honor the rich traditions of our couples with Asian backgrounds.

Our Approach to Asian Weddings

Asian couples today may share similar traditions or may bring a diverse blend of different traditions, foods, and dress together into the marriage. We provide an exquisite backdrop with large indoor and outdoor spaces for the main events and smaller spaces also available for common ceremonies that occur around a wedding. A more flexible timeline, a private facility that allows for more ample setup time for cultural installations, and a multitude of spaces that can frame different events allows 440 Elm to accommodate the needs and space for different Asian traditions.

Chinese Weddings: A Celebration of Prosperity and Joy

Chinese weddings are steeped in symbolism, with red and gold as the central colors representing good fortune and happiness. At 440 Elm, our ballroom transforms into an elegant space adorned with traditional Chinese decor, such as intricate red lanterns, double-happiness symbols, and floral arrangements.

Couples often wear traditional attire, with the bride in a qipao (cheongsam) featuring intricate embroidery, and the groom in a changshan. The tea ceremony, a key part of Chinese weddings, can be held in one of our intimate spaces or outdoors, surrounded by lush greenery. The reception, featuring a lavish multi-course banquet, pairs perfectly with our venue’s grandeur.

Filipino Weddings: Family-Centered and Full of Meaning

Filipino weddings are rich with symbolic rituals, including the arras (coin ceremony), veil and cord ceremony, and lighting of unity candles. These heartfelt moments, emphasizing unity and faith, can be beautifully accommodated in our indoor or outdoor spaces.

The bride often wears a white gown with traditional Filipino embroidery, while the groom may wear a barong Tagalog, a handwoven shirt made from piña fabric. Our venue’s grandeur is perfect for hosting large Filipino families, with room for cultural dances like the tinikling and modern reception festivities.

Japanese Weddings: Elegance and Serenity

Japanese weddings blend simplicity and beauty, often beginning with a Shinto ceremony. While our venue may not house a Shinto shrine, our serene outdoor spaces and elegant interiors provide a tranquil setting for honoring Japanese traditions.

The bride often wears a white shiromuku kimono, symbolizing purity, while the groom wears a black montsuki. Later, couples may change into colorful, elaborate uchikake kimonos. A sake-sharing ceremony can be held in our courtyard, followed by a reception featuring modern and traditional Japanese cuisine, artfully displayed and aligned with our commitment to thoughtful design.

Korean Weddings: Honor and Family Heritage

Korean weddings emphasize respect for family and tradition. At 440 Elm, the bride and groom can don hanbok, traditional Korean attire known for its vibrant colors and flowing lines, for their paebaek ceremony. During this ritual, the couple offers tea to their parents and receive blessings for their future.

Our venue’s versatility allows for a seamless transition from this intimate cultural moment to a modern reception in our spacious ballroom, with its soaring 30-foot ceilings and timeless elegance, perfect for celebrating with extended family and friends.

Vietnamese Weddings: Tradition Meets Modern Celebration

Vietnamese weddings are known for their vibrant áo dài attire and traditional tea ceremonies. The bride and groom, along with their families, wear elaborately embroidered áo dài in red, gold, or other auspicious colors.

At 440 Elm, the tea ceremony can take place in our picturesque courtyard, where families exchange gifts and blessings. Our ballroom, with its expansive space and timeless charm, is ideal for a lively reception featuring cultural performances and exquisite cuisine.