By Tracey Manailescu, WPIC Cofounder
This past Sunday, we had the pleasure of hosting our latest WPIC Lunch & Learn, “A Celebration of Chinese Weddings,” at the wonderful Sheraton Parkway Toronto North. It was a day filled with cultural appreciation, insightful learning, and of course, delicious food designed to help wedding professionals better understand and serve Chinese wedding clients.
After registering and picking up our beautiful nametags created by Stephita Invitations, the afternoon began with a warm welcome and a touch of sparkle at our prosecco station, accompanied by a spread of appetizers that set the tone for the day.
Attendees were then invited on guided site visits throughout the venue to explore the versatile event spaces and envision their potential for future weddings and celebrations.
After working up an appetite, we returned for a beautifully prepared lunch that had everyone raving. The atmosphere was buzzing with conversation and connection as attendees networked with fellow planners and vendors who are just as passionate about inclusivity and cultural celebration in the wedding industry.
Such a beautiful cake and cookies provided by Yue’s Cake Boutique.
Chair Decor and Plate Ocassions shared thier newest decor samples with us (and sponsored our table design).
The heart of the event was our informative panel discussion, where seasoned experts shared their knowledge on:
- The etiquette and traditions involved in Chinese weddings
- How to authentically attract and serve Chinese clients
- Key dos and don’ts when planning Chinese celebrations
One of the most special parts of the day was experiencing a live Chinese Tea Ceremony (where attendees modelled for us) in front of the beautifully designed backdrop by Goose Balloon.
Michelle Paquot Photography
This powerful tradition was both educational and moving, offering a firsthand look at the symbolism, structure, and deep respect for family that is central to many Chinese weddings.
We concluded our enriching afternoon with a lively Q&A session and a keepsake group photo to commemorate this shared experience of learning and cultural appreciation.
Thank you to all our attendees and speakers who made the day so meaningful. Events like these remind us how vital it is to continue educating ourselves, respecting traditions, and broadening our cultural competency in this diverse and beautiful industry.
Stay tuned for more WPIC events. There’s always something new to learn!
Sponsors: Venue: Sheraton Parkway Toronto North ~Photogaphy: Nichole Fan Photography @nicholefan.photography~Decor: Goose Balloon ~Linens: Chair Decor~ Chargers/Cutlery: Plate Occasions~Cake/Cookies: Yue’s Cake Boutique~Stationery: Stephita Invitations~ Producers: WPIC Inc. @wpicinc ~Planners: Tracey Manailescu and Danielle Andrews
Speakers: Rainbow Chan of Rainbow Chan Weddings~Carmen Luk of Devoted to You~ Nichole Fan of @nicholefan.photography ~Aaron Madar MC
Tracey Manailescu is the Co-Founder of the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada (WPIC Inc.), an international speaker, educator, and wedding planner with over two decades of experience. Known for her passion for elevating the wedding industry, Tracey has trained thousands of planners worldwide. Her work has been featured in top media outlets, and she continues to champion professionalism, inclusion, and innovation in weddings across Canada and beyond.
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