Wedding Date: September 19, 2019
How did you meet?
How we met: In 2013, Michael was listed in Rochester Magazine’s “Single in the city” feature. Thanks to the dating app Hinge, I was officially taken off the market after our meeting.
The proposal?
Michael wanted to propose to me on the day his dad died. Taking a truly sad day, he wanted to make something memorable and happy out of it. However, things did not go as planned. I was flying back from visiting family in Vietnam and my plane was delayed due to a major snowstorm. On the drive home, the snowstorm kept causing trouble and the car got stuck two blocks from the house at 3:30 am. After walking the final two blocks, I went inside to find roses and a card. I thought they were simply welcome-home gifts. Michael asked me not to open the card right away and wait a few minutes. After some time, he said I could open the card. As I was reading the card, Michael got on one knee, presented the ring and proposed.
What was the inspiration for the look and feel of your wedding?
Our favorite color is purple and we thought it would go well with white so we chose our wedding theme as purple and white. We like classic tuxedos, and had a simple, elegant wedding. We used purple and white colors in all linens, decorations and flowers.
What was the significance of your wedding location?
The Apache Hotel was newly remodeled and convenient for family and friends.
What was your favorite moment in your ceremony and reception?
We surprised our family and guests with our Vietnamese traditional gowns in our ceremony. We wanted to incorporate my (Tammy’s) culture in Vietnam with Michael’s American culture. The gowns we wore during the ceremony are traditional Vietnamese gowns worn for all special occasions. Only Michael, Tammy and her parents knew about the special gowns. The gowns were worn for the ceremony, and we changed back into the bridal gown and traditional tuxedo for the reception.
Would you change anything if you could do it over again? If so, what?
We would find a different bakery for the wedding cake. They were unresponsive and not helpful. On the day of the wedding, they dropped the cake during delivery and family members worked to fix it.
What advice do you have for other couples planning their weddings?
Start the planning with checklists and spreadsheets as soon as possible. Do it as a couple using online shared-document programs, and make sure to get estimates in advance.
What did you do for your honeymoon?
We are planning a trip to Vietnam so Michael can travel outside of the U.S. and meet my family and friends there.
WEDDING TEAM
Ceremony/Reception: Apache Hotel
Officiant: Joe Evans
Catering and evening snacks: Apache Hotel
Florist: Renning’s Flowers
Makeup: Serenity Couture
Hair: Serenity Couture
Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal
Bridesmaid’s dresses: David’s Bridal
Groomsmen suits: Men’s Wearhouse
Reception music: Men’s Wearhouse
Photographer: Joshua Becker Photography
