While in Beihai in April, we followed another Chinese tradition, of having ‘official Wedding Photos’ taken. Whilst a little unusual for me, used to the ‘amateur’ photos taken on the special day, the Chinese system does ensure some rather ‘special’ photos to celebrate the event. Here are some of ours, for my mum to share with her friends – and for all those who have asked in letters to see a wedding photo. The observant amongst you would have noticed teddy was there to partake in the big event – he really does come everywhere – dressed appropriately in a borrowed black bow-tie! Of course, the ‘package’ includes a choice of dresses – and Shanhong took advantage of the deal to try a few others. The one below is her own, made in Shanghai when Teresa and Sarah visited, but the others were all ‘supplied’ by the photograph agency. The suit above and below is mine – the one I will be wearing in our wedding ceremony (also made in Shanghai).

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Of course, when Shanhong discovered that the groom is not meant to see the dress in advance, she had another made secretly – so this one is now reserved for the reception! Wedding dresses in China do not have to be white, and Shanhong has always liked Yellow, so you can probably guess where this is going. We also dressed up in traditional Chinese costumes to provide some balance – I may look a little stupid – but there is no doubting how good Shanhong looks! Much as I liked all the studio pictures, the best, I felt, were those taken out on the beach and on the rocks – I hope you like these as much as we do.

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If you want a laugh, these photos were also turned into some very cheesy videos which follow in a later article.
Love ‘n’ Hugs, Trevor & Shanhong xx

After a lovely four weeks back in Beihai, we joined Shanhong’s parents and niece for the flight back to Chiang Mai – and two quiet days on the school campus. My family arrived on the Tuesday and we all transferred to a hotel in town. A few excursions gave the family the chance to experience a bit of Thailand – and us a chance to finalise details for the wedding. Family trips included the Umbrella factory and an Elephant camp and we also took in some culture, with both the Simon Ladyboy show, and a Kantoke Dinner. The following photos are all family members:

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The main reason for getting everyone out to Thailand however, was, of course, for the wedding – so I guess you’ll be looking for some wedding photos – the rest of this report is devoted to photos of the big event. All went very smoothly and hopefully, was an enjoyable time for all. There should also be video clips here on the website if you want to see more! Enjoy!

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After the wedding we held a lunchtime reception at a local restaurant, Le Crystal. We aimed for informal with a good buffet and a very nice atmosphere prevailed!

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Trevor & Shanhong.

The day after the wedding, we said goodbye to Shanhong’s side of the family, who flew back to China, and then boarded our own flight to Bangkok and the bus 3 hours further down to Hua Hin, a coastal resort. The whole of my family were booked into the Anantara resort, which for me, is a paradise indeed! The rooms, the food, the service, all excellent – and both a beach and a beautiful large pool to enjoy!

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After a few days in Hua Hin, it was time for the drive back to Bangkok, and chance for a quick shop and a quick trip to the Grand Palace – a ‘must see’ for anyone going to Bangkok – it really is beautiful!

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After Bangkok, it was time for my family to return to the UK, and for Shanhong and I to return to school. It had been a great trip and a really good chance for the family to be together. I was just sorry that my dad could not have been there too, but unfortunately, flying no longer agrees with him. Still, one brother was heard to say he’d spent more time with another during this holiday, than he had in the last five years! One of my nephews obviously enjoyed it too – he proposed to his girlfriend while in Bangkok, and rumour has it they are planning a future family holiday for another wedding!

It was really, really good to spend time with the two families, but some would say that it wouldn’t really qualify as a honeymoon, having so many people around, so one weekend in October, we drove up to the Proud Phu Fah resort in the hills of Chiang Mai. We had been given a gift voucher for a one-night-stay in the honeymoon villa at the resort (thank you Mary and Mac!) and were in for a lovely surprise! The resort was very small, just nine bungalows, but the rooms certainly had character! When we went through our ‘front door’ the first sight was an outdoor hot tub – with bedroom to the left, and bathroom to the right! Needless to say we had a lovely stay – and yes – we did use the hot tub!

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You’ll have noticed teddy came with us – no surprise there! Well – that brings us up to date in October 2007. As I write this we are ‘packing’ for our next visit to ‘home’ in China! Trevor & Shanhong xx

The videos below are compilations of 'official wedding photos' taken in Beihai. It is a Chinese tradition to have these wedding pics taken - and the pics are available on this same website. However, the photography company also made these VERY "cheesy" - but fun videos. Enjoy!

Beihai - I'll never break your heart

Beihai - Nothing's going to change my love for you

The video below is a compilation of photos taken at the ceremony before family and friends in Chiang Mai, 2007.
Enjoy!

Chiang Mai - Pre Ceremony Clips