Isabel & Ryan: A Fusion of Cultures, Embarking on a New Chapter of Love and Joy 展開愛與喜悅的新篇章

Photography: Emily Michelson
Venue: Shangri La Toronto • Bride, Planning & Design: Isabel Lee, Lovelee Celebrations • Videography: Curtis Lee • Month Of Coordinator: Narelle Janine Events
Florals: PATCHOULI • Hair & Make-up: Windy Chiu • Stationery: Blush & Letter’s Co. • DJ: ARMO • Cake: Brooke Cowitz, Cry Baby Cakes
Officiant: Enduring Promises • Rentals: Simply Beautiful Decor & AER Event Rentals • Photobooth: Fame and Flash • Bar Vinyl: GTA Dance Floors
Dresses & Accessories: Blair Nadeau Bridal Adornments, Superior Bridal, Avenue 22 Bridal • Grooms Attire: Suit Supply
As Featured in The Art of Celebration Annual Edition No.1

“After an emotional proposal in Oahu, Hawaii, we were ready to start wedding planning to celebrate with their family and friends.”

— Isabel & Ryan

Amidst the challenges of a pandemic, Isabel and Ryan's love story unfolded, igniting a bond that transcended quarantine. Their journey went from virtual chats to a heartfelt proposal, culminating in a vibrant autumn wedding at Shangri-La Toronto. Embracing a spring-themed celebration, they infused their day with cultural nods, from Asian-inspired decor to classic Chinese melodies. With a fusion menu reflecting their heritage and an elegant qipao donned by the bride's mother, their wedding beautifully blended tradition with modernity.

Isabel and Ryan's love story began during the mandatory lockdowns in 2020, bonding with late-night conversations using video calls and shared affection for fast food. Despite starting as quarantine partners, they evolved into life partners with a heartfelt proposal from Ryan in Oahu, Hawaii. For their autumn wedding at Shangri-La Toronto, they opted for a spring-themed celebration, symbolizing new beginnings with vibrant colors and lush greenery. The venue's Asian-inspired decor subtly nodded to Chinese culture, resonating with the couple.

"Despite our wedding being held in autumn, we wanted to use spring colours in our palette and floral design to symbolize a new beginning."

During the ceremony, Ryan serenaded Isabel with a guitar performance, complemented by flower girls and their husky, Eros. Cultural elements infused the reception, including classic songs by Teresa Teng 月亮代表我的心 and 甜蜜蜜, evoking nostalgic memories for Isabel's family. Their fusion menu featured dishes reflecting both Chinese and Italian culinary influences, offering guests a delightful culinary experience. The bride's mother adorned a qipao, symbolizing familial pride and heritage, while an outfit change during the reception added elegance. Throughout the festivities, music selection and cuisine choices struck a balance between cultural heritage and Canadian identity, ensuring representation for both families. Ultimately, their wedding encapsulated warmth, love, and the joy of embarking on a new chapter surrounded by loved ones.

“Having been at the Shangri-La Hotel many times, we knew it was the perfect venue for our wedding. The reason goes beyond that the room was the perfect size for our guest count. As the hospitality group was founded in Asia, there were lots of elements in decor throughout the venue that gave subtle hints to the Chinese culture. The brush paintings in the main lobby, the wall of chinoiserie vases on the events floor. The Museum Room is always beautiful with it’s floor to ceiling windows and crystal chandeliers.”—Isabel & Ryan

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