10 Ways to Use Red & Gold in Your Chinese - American Wedding

decoration weddings weddingtraditions Aug 12, 2022

Red and gold are some of the most important colors in Chinese culture. Red symbolizes luck and gold, wealth. Put them together, and not only do you have a stunning color pallet but one that is rich in tradition and meaning. Here are 10 beautiful ways to incorporate Red & Gold into your Chinese- American Wedding.

1. Centerpieces

Adding a hint of red with some beautiful delicate flowers such as the ones in these first photographs of Patricia & Chandler's Wedding makes your wedding memorably beautiful. Or you can choose to add a pop of red & gold in a more luxurious way like the picture from Steve & Maggie's Wedding.

Photo Credits: Photo 1&2 Liv Schultheis Productions @livwiththelens, Photo 3 @alex_mo_photography_video

2. Ceremony Flowers

Red and gold flowers are also popular in Chinese weddings because they symbolize wealth, prosperity, good luck, joyfulness, and happiness. If you're considering something a bit more subtle but equally as elegant, a few red & gold flowers sprinkled into your personal flowers, such as bouquets, boutonnieres & corsages, are just the thing. Maybe even consider adding a floral arch, it will surely amaze your guests and look fabulous in photographs!

Photo Credits: Photo 1&2 @kellyh_photo, Florist: @happilyeverafternmore

Speaking of flower arches, that brings me to my next point, which is the decor!

3. Table Decor

Look at how this fantastic red linen ties the whole decor together and contrasts the beautiful sunset in the first photo! Next, consider adding some color to reception menus & utensils like the chopsticks in the following two images.

Credit: Photo 1 @linandjirsa, Photo 2 @livwiththelens, Photo 3 @Jakechoiphotography

4. Cake & Desserts

Credit: Photo 1 @carissawoophotography, Photo 2 @alex_mo_photography_video

5. Stationary

An easy way to add a pop of color is in the details, like this wedding invitation or this wedding vow booklet. Consider the color of the paper or maybe even just accents of gold on the design like in these images below.

Photo Credits: Photo 1 Lin & Jirsa @linandjirsa, Photo 2 @livwiththelens

6. Bride

Whether you know it by Qipao, Cheongsam, Or Ao Dai, we can agree that this traditionally red dress is a beautiful way to incorporate some color on your big day.

Credits: Photo 1 @carissawoophotography, Photo 2 @linandjirsa

7. Groom

Who said grooms couldn't have a little fun with fashion too? Check out this awesome red tux this groom has on, not to mention this equally awesome Changshan with intricate gold detailing depicting red flowers and a majestic bird!

Credits: Photo 1&2 @carissawoophotography

8. Wedding Party

What better way to make your wedding party feel special than having them stand out in such stunning colors! For example, these elegant bridesmaid dresses are a gorgeous way to add color and look great in contrast with your white wedding dress and the groomsmen's black tuxes. As for the groomsmen, add details like these red handkerchiefs with intricate gold & blue details.

Credits: Photo 1,2,&3 @livwiththelen

9. Accessories

Something blue... how about something red? If you would like to play with color more subtly, a red gemstone on a gold band ring would look beautiful! Consider adding accessories to your hair like a red flower or a gold clip. Maybe even conder adding in some color with your shoes like these red shoes with gold detailing.

Credits: Photo 1,2, & 3 Lin & Jirsa @linandjirsa

10. Tea Ceremony Details

If you are hosting an East Asian cultural wedding, you are most likely having a tea ceremony. Here are some beautiful gold & red details from some of the events we have designed, planned, & coordinated in the past. Take a look at these gorgeous red & gold details on this Chinese tea set and the beautiful double happiness sign details on these traditional kneeling pads.