Fifteen years ago when I was planning our daughter’s 1st birthday party, I contemplated over having her party on a Friday or a Saturday. There were pros and cons to both, but a huge pro for doing it on a Friday night was that it was much cheaper. In the Korean culture, the first birthday becomes a huge event because of many historical reasons… it’s really a big deal like a wedding reception almost! Our friend who observed us having this dilemma finally said, “You know, people that love you guys will come regardless if it’s on a Friday or Saturday, so just do what’s best for you. And if they really can’t come, they just can’t.” Since then, planning parties or any events became a bit simpler in my mind and I realized that I just overthink certain details a lot more than it needs to be. A celebration is supposed to be a joyous occasion where you invite the ones you love because you want to share that joy with them. Because what’s life by yourself? We are all meant to gather and fellowship and become a community and share the joy and challenges of life together! Katherine + Jonathan’s wedding really reminded me of the meaning of events and why we even have it in the first place. Almost everyone on their guest list was not from “here”. They were all from out of town, out of the country… in fact, I think we were the ones that lived the closest to the venue! They had friends from all over the country and abroad. Like the way our friend we mentioned earlier said, the fact that these friends and family made the time and the investment to show up and congratulate them showed me that they were there because they truly loved them. And that says a lot about our couple too… my mom always told me, “if you want good friends, you must be a good friend first.” And you know what? She’s right! So yeah… these friends were there not just because, but because Katherine + Jonathan have been good friends to them too. And who wouldn’t want to be friends with them?! I’ve never seen a couple that smiled and laughed more than them. I’m not just saying that either! Wow! Their genuine laughter made me smile and laugh all day which made the day fly by! The reception had nonstop dancing… the day flowed smoothly thanks to our couple’s great planning, the best planners and coordinators, and a great team of staff and other vendors and pros. What an ideal wedding it was! Katherine + Jonathan, your day was so meaningful and most importantly, beautiful! May your marriage be filled with God’s blessing all the days of your lives! It was an honor to be there and capture your happiest day! Thank you for allowing us to be part of it. We hope that you love all of your photos!!!
With much love,
Craig + Unchong
