LOVE STORIES
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Emily Zhang Qiang Zhong
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alk about last-minute decisions: With only a week to go before their planned ceremony, Emily and Qiang still didn’t have a venue. Enter Waterperry Farm, the romantic Free Union gardens and the only spot with the couple’s chosen date still available. “It was so gorgeous and the perfect fit for the kind of intimate ceremony we had in mind,” Emily says. Intimate indeed. The ceremony, which was led by Qiang’s Ph.D. advisor, was attended by a small group of friends. A Zoom call was set up between the couple and their parents (who were unable to attend in person) to complete the traditional Chinese tea ceremony. “It’s a way for the bride and groom to show their gratitude to their parents for raising them,” says Emily. “Our parents were so happy to be a part of our big day—even if it was through Zoom!”
AUGUS T 8, 2020, AT WATERPERRY FAR M SAFETY FIRST
For the reception, which was held outdoors in their officiant’s back yard, the couple, prioritizing safety, ordered individually packed food and wedding cupcakes.
FIRST AND LAST
Emily and Qiang met during UVA orientation on the first day of school. They sat next to each other during one of the lectures, and started talking. Five years later, they were married.
THE DETAILS
Officiant Professor Daniel B. Quinn Catering Tavola Flowers Hedge Fine Blooms Cake Cakes by Rachel Rings Jared/Cartier Hair and makeup Glo-Out Glamour Bar Videographer Rachael Curry Films
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