Paul and Charmaine

I am a Singaporean born Chinese that grew up in Perth and moved to Melbourne for Uni. Paul is a half Aussie, half Tongan who has lived his life in Melbourne. We met through one of his older sisters and my good friend, Tu’uhevaha. Tu’uhevaha was so sure that we would hit it off, going so far as to text me “I think you and my bro would make a good couple” before I had even met Paul! And so her words were true. Three years and a bit later Paul and I were married.

We chose Rippon Lea Estate because the garden is so beautiful. Plus we could have the ceremony and reception in one place which meant less stress in transporting 90 overseas relatives and friends!

It was important for Paul and I to respect our different family cultures.  For this, we had a Minister conduct our marriage ceremony, a Chinese tea ceremony to pay respects to our elders and traditional Tongan dance.

Our wedding day was during a Spring afternoon. Of all days, Melbourne decided to live up to her unpredictable weather. At midday we stood through some light rain for pre-wedding photos at Melbourne Museum/Carlton Gardens. But by late afternoon the rain, wind and lightening came out for a proper show.

Arriving at the Rippon Lea Estate, I sat in the car for 20 minutes waiting for the rain to ease. In the end, it took two golf sized umbrellas to shield me from the heavy downpour and wind so I could get to the bridal room!

The garden ceremony had to be moved into the ballroom as the rain didn’t look like it was going to stop. We were really disappointed because I had planned to walk down a spiral-shaped aisle. Not giving up, at the very last minute I asked everyone to move the chairs out into the garden again. Too bad if it rained heavily, the guests would just have to run for cover. It would be memorable wedding!

Miraculously, when Dad walked me out 15 minutes later, the rain stopped and the sun came to shine.  Interestingly, as soon as the ceremony finished the rain started again!  We felt so blessed.

One of the biggest highlights was Paul’s cousin performing a traditional Tongan dance during dinner.  The dancer’s arms and legs are oiled so that guests are able to stick money onto the dancer.  This money is later collected and given to the bride and groom as part of their wedding gift.

Our families and guests enjoyed the cultural exchanges and we learnt more about each family’s background that day.  The rest of the night went by in a happy blur and it was indeed an evening filled with love, laughter and celebration.

 Images by Darin Collison Photography

 

Ms Gingham says: I’ve got to make mention of the amazing cake toppers!! Gorgeous bride and grooms in national costumes! What a beautiful nod to the couple’s heritage!

Charmaine says: “I’m not so good about talking about myself, so here are a few words that spring to mind. I love colour, books, taking care of my family, cooking, getting dressed up, anything kitchen related (eg. pots, plates, my cake mixer!), watching movies. I am learning to relax and I love to laugh.”