Michelle and Chris’ wedding day was so many things. It was joyful, emotional, meaningful, and such a beautiful blend of their cultures, families, and love story. As a wedding photographer, I’m always honored to be invited into such personal spaces — but this one was extra special and truly a dream to shoot from start to finish. From heartfelt tributes to high-energy traditions, every detail was intentional. I’m so excited to share a closer look at their Lebanese-Vietnamese-American wedding celebration at the Four Seasons St. Louis.

A Guest-Centered Wedding Vision

Michelle and Chris built their entire day around making sure their guests felt welcome, celebrated and immersed in their love story. With so many family and friends traveling from out of town and overseas, they wanted every detail to be thoughtful — honoring culture, family, and legacy while giving everyone an unforgettable experience in St. Louis. They completely nailed it.

One of my favorite things about photographing this wedding was seeing the way it reflected them at every turn: their families, their traditions, their love for their dogs (yes, there were custom cocktails and photobooth props for the pups), and the deep love they both have for their parents, especially Michelle’s late father.

Fashion with Intention (And a Lebanese Designer!)

Michelle looked absolutely stunning in a gown by Gattinolli by Marwan, a Lebanese designer she discovered at LBR Bridal in Chicago. Her veil was custom-made in Lebanon to match the gown — cascading floral details, cathedral length, and such an elegant match. And her shoes? Jimmy Choos, of course.

Her bridesmaids wore whisper-blue Jenny Yoo gowns, each selecting the silhouette that suited them best — stylish and flattering. The groomsmen kept things classic for the ceremony, then surprised guests with a wardrobe change into traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai for the reception — a meaningful nod to Chris’s heritage and such a fun moment to photograph!

A Menu Full of Cultural Flavor

The food was another thoughtful part of this day. Michelle and Chris worked with the Four Seasons chef to design a custom menu that honored both of their backgrounds. Appetizers included chicken shawarma sandwich bites, Vietnamese spring rolls, lamb arayes sandwiches, and stuffed grape leaves. Dinner featured Zaatar chicken (a huge hit) and Vietnamese salad.

But the dessert plate? Another perfectly planned pairing: Vietnamese coffee panna cotta and traditional Halawet el Jeben, one of their favorite Lebanese sweets! They even served Lebanese cardamom coffee in custom cups inspired by traditional designs. The entire menu was a delicious and intentional way to celebrate their heritage.

Cultural Experiences Guests Will Never Forget

This was truly a celebration full of life. Michelle and Chris included both a Lebanese Zaffe entrance and a traditional Vietnamese Lion Dance performance — the energy in the room during both was electric. The Zaffe, with its drums and dancers, kicked things off with high energy. And the Lion Dance brought prosperity and joy — guests even received red envelopes with blank cards to write messages and hand to the dancers!

They also had two themed photobooths — one Lebanese, one Vietnamese — with props (many handmade by the couple themselves!) to let guests immerse themselves in the cultures and have some fun between dances.

Honoring Michelle’s Father

Throughout the day, Michelle found the most heartfelt ways to keep her father’s memory close. A seat was reserved for him at the family table with a custom drape and photo. Her bouquet carried a charm with his picture, and she gave a matching pin to the uncles who walked her down the aisle.

But one of the most emotional moments came during the uncle-daughter dance. Unbeknownst to Michelle, Chris had secretly tracked down old family videos that had been thought lost forever. As she danced, a slideshow played — showing rare clips of her with her father from childhood. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room, and I can confidently say it was one of the most moving things I’ve ever witnessed at a wedding.

Florals, Decor, and Cake Details

The floral design was simple and romantic, mostly white blooms with touches of blush and blue, arranged in loose, organic shapes. Candlelight in glass holders added the perfect glow to the tablescapes, especially across the two long tables filled with single bud vases and low centerpiece arrangements.

Their cake, created by the Four Seasons pastry chef, was adorned with white florals and topped with not one but two custom toppers: one with their names, and one featuring Plum and Cannoli, their two adorable pups.

Music & Movement: Celebrating in Every Way

The reception was so full of personality. The bridal party entrances were full of dancing and flair — the groomsmen entered to London Bridge by Fergie with belly-dancing skirts (yes, really), and the bridesmaids danced in to “Arous” by Maya Diab, a Lebanese favorite.

Chris and his mom shared a dance to Because You Loved Me by Celine Dion. Michelle danced with her uncle to Bent Abouya (My Father’s Daughter) — another emotional moment that highlighted her father’s memory.

And to end the night? Mr. Brightside, sung by everyone at the top of their lungs. A perfect closing note to an unforgettable day.

This wedding was one I’ll always remember — full of culture, connection, and (of course) love in every single detail. If you’re planning a multicultural wedding in St. Louis (or anywhere!), Michelle and Chris’s celebration is the perfect inspiration. Their love for each other and their families radiated through every photo, and I feel so grateful to have been the one to document it all.

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