So I’ve been searching for a creative way to incorporate my fiance’s Chinese heritage into the table names. So I thought I’d ask one of my bridesmaids to write down the Chinese character for each Chinese word associated with marriage. Then I found some information that I could incorporate:

In Chinese culture, flowers are not only the objects of beauty but symbols of life, happiness, and fertility. If you want to infuse your wedding with the Oriental beauty of Chinese flowers, here are some suggestions:

Red Roses
In contrast to the Western wedding, white flowers are considered the symbol of death and are used only for funerals. On the other hand, red is the symbol of ultimate joy in Chinese culture. Use red roses or other red flowers either as bouquet, church aisle décor, or table centerpieces.

Peonies
A symbol of spring and renewed life, peonies come in different colors and varieties. Peonies are called the ‘Flowers of Riches and Honour’ in Chinese, and are the symbols of love and affection, as well as emblems of feminine beauty. The bright red peony, in particular, is auspicious, bringing with it luck and good fortune.
Blossoms
Blossoms are also considered auspicious flowers. They symbolize life, growth and prosperity. The peach blossom is the most auspicious of all plants, as the peach in Chinese culture is a symbol of long life and is regarded as the strongest defense against evil. Should your peach blossom bloom during the New Year celebration, it is a sure sign that the year ahead will be one of good fortune.

Narcissus
Other common names of this joyful flower are daffodil and jonquil. These symbols of spring represent change and end of hibernation, and are perfect for spring weddings.

Orchids
Orchids, being exotic and fragrant, are an excellent choice for Chinese weddings. The orchid is the Chinese symbol of love and fertility, a perfect token for weddings.

Lotuses
The closed inner petals and open ring of outer petals of the lotus blossoms represent four virtues: scent, purity, softness, and loveliness.

Kumquat Trees
In Chinese, the kumquat is called Gam Gat Sue. The word Gam rhymes with the Chinese word for gold, and the word Gat rhymes with the Chinese word for luck. The tiny green leaves of this plant symbolize wealth. Also, the shape of the small oranges is a symbol of unity and perfection.

Use red roses, peonies, blossoms, or narcissus flowers (or combinations of any of these) either for bouquets, table centerpieces, or pew and chair decors. Make nice corsages out of blossoms and orchids. Have orchids and/or lotuses float on colored glass bowls of water, with lighted candle, to make wonderful, romantic centerpieces. Finally, use kumquat trees as pew or reception décor.