A Non-Traditional Fall Wedding at Roka Akor

Christine and Justin’s wedding in Houston was a thoughtful blend of tradition, family, and culture. Instead of a large wedding and party, they opted to focus on the meaningful ceremonies to their cultures and a gastronomic experience with a restaurant buyout. The weekend began with a traditional Vietnamese tea ceremony, where they honored their families with symbolic offerings, including a whole roasted pig, and shared their favorite foods. The next day, they exchanged vows at the A.D. Bruce Religion Center at the University of Houston, Christine’s alma mater. The chapel's simplicity and natural light made it an ideal setting for their interfaith Catholic ceremony, reflecting their diverse cultural backgrounds. Their reception at Roka Akor focused on intimate gatherings and their love for Japanese cuisine. They incorporated personal touches like handmade (by the couple) chopstick rests that doubled as escort cards and hand-sketched (by the bride) table names inspired by Japanese fish. The color red, important in both Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, was used as a pop of color in the decor. Christine wore a high-neck, long-sleeve crepe dress with a plunging back and detachable bow, blending timeless elegance with a modern twist. Florals were inspired by the Ikebana style, with sculptural designs and pops of red that complemented the overall aesthetic. Christine and Justin’s wedding was a meaningful celebration of their families and cultural heritage, with a focus on the people and traditions that matter most to them.