Hugo, a young man from France, recently celebrated his wedding to Zhao Min, a bride from Gaoping, Shanxi, in a ceremony that beautifully merged Chinese and French traditions. “Xizhen Suzhuang has preserved many traditional Chinese wedding customs, and the wedding hall is stunning, decorated with dragons and phoenixes. The attire we wore was arranged by them, and I think it looks fantastic. This place is perfect for our wedding,” Hugo shared.
The couple’s wedding was a grand affair filled with traditional charm, showcasing a rich tapestry of culture. The blend of Chinese romance met French flair, creating a unique atmosphere. During the ceremony, Hugo and Zhao Min performed the Shanxi folk song “Xiang Qinqin,” adding a personal touch to the event.
Ceremony preparations included an elegant procession with ancient music, where attendants lit candles and offered blessings as the couple entered. Hugo donned a striking red ceremonial robe complemented by a formal hat, exuding a distinct traditional style, while Zhao Min appeared in a resplendent phoenix crown and a colorful gown, radiating grace and elegance. Following a series of rituals like the wine sharing ceremony and the “joining of hands,” they officially tied the knot.
The couple’s love story began in Beijing, where Zhao Min was studying and met Hugo through family introductions. “We met on a blind date, and after some time, I took the first step and proposed to her. We discovered that we shared similar values and perspectives,” Hugo recounted.
Having lived in China for seven years, Hugo is currently an international teacher at Beijing Foreign Studies University. His passion for Chinese culture resonated with their decision to have a traditional wedding in Xizhen Suzhuang. They both wanted to experience the unique marriage customs of Gaoping and appreciate the charm of traditional Chinese weddings.
“Finding my love in the country I adore feels like a perfect fulfillment. China has already become my second home,” Hugo expressed. He is committed to sharing more evocative stories of China from his unique perspective, aiming to build a bridge for cultural exchange between France and China.
