Table of Contents
Introduction
Before heading off to Canada late this year, I first flew out to New Jersey for something really special. My uni/college friend Jenn’s wedding. It was my first time attending a Chinese-American wedding, and between you and me it fully gave “Crazy Rich Asians” energy and I was soo here for it.
This wasn’t just a wedding. They had their dog as the dog bearer, which was so sweet and adorable! The wedding was a full-on experience for me because it had a stunning setting. Unlimited food, and I mean all the food was on display. It reminded me just how global my friendships are and why I’m so grateful for the life I’ve built for myself. Who would have known a country pumpkin like me would have such a diverse range of friends?
How It All Started
I met Jenn over ten years ago during my study exchange in Singapore. We were both living that international student life at the National University of Singapore. We were young students navigating new cultures, travelling around Southeast Asia. Eating good food and meeting new people. Over the years, we kept in touch, and it’s been such a blessing to have kept her as a friend.
So when she invited me to her wedding, I knew I had to go. No questions asked. She gave plenty of notice, which is a wedding tradition. And it was the perfect excuse to visit a new US state, having already been to New York, Houston, LA for Coachella, and Las Vegas.
The Wedding: Chinese-American Elegance Meets Food Heaven
The ceremony was short, sweet, and stunning. But the reception? The reception was something else. After the vows, we walked into a grand room with what I can only describe as a gastronomic gala. There was food. And I said this before but there was sooo much food. Food stations everywhere: sushi, pasta, soup, breads, meats, desserts, drinks on tap… and yes, it didn’t stop there.
After that? A full sit-down three-course meal.
And after that? They served Chinese pot noodles as late-night snacks.
At that point, I was well and truly in a food coma. That wasn’t the Crazy Rich Asians Wedding scene I want to relive but in the best possible way.
The Hotel & Vibes
We stayed at the Hilton Pearl River, a beautiful venue that was peaceful and scenic. It was such a contrast from the the normal busyness and chaos of NYC, and whole I love seeing the busyness of the two I’d definitely recommend it if you’re doing a wedding tradition in Chinese weekend or looking for something quieter near the city. You can book the hotel here.
There was something so warming about it. So familiar faces it reminded me how much my time in Singapore shaped me. That season of life introduced me to people from every continent, and now I have global friendships that feel like home, no matter where I am.
Why This Meant So Much
This wedding tradition in Chinese felt symbolic, not just because it was beautiful, but because it was a reminder of what happens when you say yes to new experiences. When I applied for a study exchange, I had no idea I’d one day be flying to New Jersey for a wedding like this. But here we are.
It also reminded me why I’ve never followed the crowd. Why I’ve always chosen the slightly less-trodden path. Because that path gave me friends from around the world, stories I’d never imagined, and a deep understanding of life outside my own culture.
If you’ve ever thought about studying abroad, working abroad, or just doing something different, this is your sign. It won’t always be perfect, but it will shape you in ways you can’t yet imagine.
Final Views – Crazy Rich Asians Wedding
Aww, the memories, seeing friends from school, and the food coma! This wedding made me feel proud of myself, and I smile as I write this: chase the life that lets you do things outside “the norm”. Where you can make friends all over the world, where you can attend weddings in places you’ve never been before, with people you never expected to meet.
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Speak soon,
Adebola MBV x
