Today, we’re going to take a look at one of the most beautiful weddings I have ever been a part of. I shared a quick couple of images in last year’s “Year in Review” post, but today I’ll be sharing a larger set. On a clear June afternoon last year, Hugo and Gayoon made their marriage official at a stunning ceremony in Namyangju, South Korea. With guests from both the Korean and Australian sides joining the festivities, there was plenty of fun to be had and many emotional moments as the two families became one. It was an honour to be there as their wedding photographer for this lovely day.
Let’s start this with the venue. Choeundang is a stunning Hanok set on a hillside above the Bukhangang River in Namyangju just outside of Seoul. When you set up an aisle and arch, an outdoor dining area, and invite close friends and family for a late afternoon wedding, it’s bound to be beautiful. Everything at the venue had Hugo and Gayoon’s touch added to it. From the flowers and table decorations to the specially designed menus, everything had been personalised and the result was breathtaking.
On top of that, the ceremony and reception were both Australian and Korean in style, but neither at the same time, reflecting the couple’s origins and their future. The simple yet meaningful ceremony was culminated with emotional and entertaining vows by the couple before being showered with fresh flower petals as they exited to get ready for the reception.
The reception itself was filled with songs performed by Gayoon’s parents, brother, and a close friend – including a spontaneous dance by the couple. A course meal was served and then the cake cut, winding up the official section of the main wedding. One of the great things about being a wedding photographer is being able to appreciate the work that goes on behind the scenes to make an event like this happen. So many people are involved to make everything just right, and everyone gave their all for this wedding.
After lots of emotional goodbyes and the departure of the guest bus, the immediate families gathered for Pyebaek, a part of a traditional Korean wedding. During this ceremony, cash is given as a gift to the new couple, and participants are given the chance to throw jujube and chestnuts onto the bride’s hanbok, representing the number of children they will have.
Myself and my second shooter for the day, Marco from Marco Devon Photography, certainly had our work cut out for us. It was such a beautiful wedding with so many scenes that just begged to be captured. We shot non-stop for almost 8 hours and came away with several thousand frames to choose from. Below is a selection from the day.
Having a wedding in Seoul or Korea? I’d love to work with you. Get in touch above!
Image above by Marco Devon
Image above by Marco Devon
