Traditional Korean Wedding

We had so much fun having an impromptu Korean Wedding last week! The traditional South Korean (friends of the U.S.) wedding is so colorful and playful. The costumes are the best part.

Underneath the special green and rainbow coat, the bride wears a traditional Korean chima-chogori. It consists of a short top and a VERY long skirt that starts under the arms. The front-top portion of this one is longer than most tops-it is a symbol of royalty…oo la la! This one belongs to my mother. The colorful overcoat, Chris’ costume, the screens, mats and fake foods are all rented! So much easier than say wedding dress shopping.

My mother’s friend, who I call “aunt” helps to tie the bridal overcoat.

This long sash symbolizes two families becoming one. I get to wear red dots on cheeks and forehead to represent femininity, luck and chastity!

First we bow to one another. I get help because of the elaborate costume and my fragility as a woman.

Then we bow to my parents.

We hold the family-combining sash and my parents throw dates that we catch (thank goodness). These represent how many children we will have! WOW! Look how happy my parents are! We are taking it all in.

We serve rice wine to my parents and then to ourselves.

Then the funniest part of all: Uh-b00-ba. AKA piggy-back-ride. Yes, Chris, the groom picks me up on his back and jogs me around the room. Laugher explosion!

The traditional wedding gifts are beautifully decorated envelopes filled with money.

Then some photos! Here is Tracey, who competed with our dad for the best photo of the day. My fave was the sake drinking photo…drumroll…Tracey took that one!

All of the fake foods on the table symbolize longevity in our relationship and fertility.

The ladies were so beautiful in the traditional dress! They were so helpful and cheery!

Happy bride!

Gangnam Style!

Thanks mom and dad!

What do you think?