Leigh and Che-wo pay tribute to their heritage at relaxed wedding

The best of Chinese and Scottish culture came to Newcastle for Leigh McDonald and Che-wo Tang’s relaxed wedding.

The Gateshead couple, who had been together for 13 years before Che-wo popped the question, were keen on a laid-back celebration that still paid homage to their two very different backgrounds.

“We didn’t have a specific theme but we wanted to add a hint of our heritage to our day with a few Scottish traditions and an epic traditional Chinese wedding cake,” Leigh, 32, says.

The couple wed at Newcastle’s As You Like It, in front of 57 guests on November 14, 2015.

“The day was magical, it was a relaxed and laid back with no formal bridal party and no speeches. Exactly what we wanted. It was all the people that we loved and held dear in one room to witness us get married and celebrate with us by having a big party,” Leigh says.

The bride says she and Che-wo, 35, proved with their relaxed wedding that it wasn’t necessary to conform to every tradition.

“We went against the grain of having all the formalities on our day,” Leigh says.

“We successfully blended both our families’ traditions together and the day was a complete smash!”

Photos courtesy of Gavin Forster Photography.

Low Fell Florists provided gorgeous floral arrangements.

As well as providing the venue, As You Like It also had it looking its best, helping with decor and styling for the big day.

 

“Most people pray that it doesn’t rain on their big day but I have to say that a little rain shower made for the most spectacular wedding photos,” Leigh says.

“The advice that I would give is always keep in mind what you and your groom would like, not what would keep everyone else happy, it is your day after all and the beginning of the rest of your life’s together – its just about you two!” Leigh says.