Huy & Tran's Engagement Ceremony

I was absolutely honored to be asked by Huy & Tran to photograph their engagement ceremony. They are two of the warmest, genuine, and caring people I have ever met. Their families were full of love, and Huy & Tran definitely had that starry-eyed look that newly engaged couples should always have!I have to admit I had never been to, or ever heard of, a Vietnamese Engagement Ceremony prior to being contacted by Huy & Tran. But it was truly one of the most beautiful ceremonies I have ever witnessed-- full of tradition, family bonds, and symbolism. It was all about the introducing and mingling of two families, and that's such an important part of engagement. I imagine that by the wedding day these two families will be so comfortable with each other, and completely united as one. I love that. Man, I wish I had had an engagement ceremony ;)After the festivities were over, I did a short engagement session with Huy & Tran at the beautiful Pacific Palms Resort. That would be a great wedding location, just as an fyi to future brides! :) Anywho, enough talking...let's get to the pictures!The groom and family bring gifts to the brides' house!The gifts are presented to the bride's family.And the bride's family accepts them! I mean, who wouldn't accept gifts, right? ;)The representative of the bride's family welcomes everyone to the house.And the bride's mother uncovers the gifts!The bride is presented, and the families are introduced to each other.The engagement ring is presented!!And then get this, the bride is presented with MORE jewelry!! See, I told you I wish I had an engagement ceremony ;)Prayers are made to their ancestors.Afterward, there was time for families to mingle and get to know each other!  I just couldn't resist posting pictures of the little ones who were there!At the closing of the event, the bride's family returns some of the gifts to the groom's family.And now for some pictures from our session at the Pacific Palms Resort...This shot really shows the beautiful earrings Tran just received! Jealousy! :)Thank you again, Huy & Tran for inviting me to share your day with you and capture your engagement. It was truly an honor, and I wish you and your families much love, health and happiness!