June 1, 2013

How They Met

Yvonne and Sasha met through friends in high school. Yvonne was working at an ice skating rink where some friends brought Sasha along for a Friday night out. The two skated around a few times together as Sasha tried to charm Yvonne. Over the next eight years, they made a long distance relationship work as Yvonne pursued her medical education in Ohio and Sasha worked in Washington, D.C. and abroad.

How He Asked

Yvonne spent the summer before medical school in Washington, DC where Sasha was working. They had a great summer enjoying the nation’s capitol. One summer night, Sasha took Yvonne to a personalized Italian dinner (her favorite) and then over to the Jefferson Memorial. It was a beautiful night along the river as Sasha discussed his “pursuit of happiness” and how it included their future as husband and wife.

The Perfect Place

Knowing they wanted an outdoor wedding in a place that could host both the ceremony and reception, Sasha and Yvonne chose Historic Mankin Mansion. Yvonne says, “They did an amazing job! Our friends and family are still talking about much fun they had!” Sasha says, “The Historic Mankin Mansion grounds are stunning, so Yvonne knew that she only needed simple classy decor.” Together, they chose a soft palate of bluebell blue, silver and aubergine, a dark purple.

Timeless Traditions

Yvonne & Sasha’s wedding included many beautiful traditions. They were married under a traditional Jewish chuppah by Sasha’s longtime mentor and friend in front of all their closest family and friends, some of whom came all the way from England. Yvonne truly impressed their guests when she made her reception entrance in her mother’s original (and unaltered!) traditional Chinese dress, also called a chi-pao. The couple also got a big surprise when they received a personal letter from the Taiwanese president, Ma Ying-jeou, congratulating them on their wedding day. Yvonne’s father was classmates with President Ma and the two have kept in touch ever since.

Photography: Seth Roberts Photography

Ceremony, Reception Site & Music: Historic Mankin Mansion

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals of VA

Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Airport & The Jefferson Hotel