Nǐ hǎo and good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m Mei, one of Lisa’s bridesmaids and her best friend since we were little girls practicing characters together in Chinese school.
Lisa, my měi mei, my sister in all but blood, looking at you today in your beautiful qipao makes my heart full. You’ve always embodied the best of both our cultures – the respect and family values of our Chinese heritage, and the independence and drive of our American upbringing.
I still remember the day you told me about Michael. You said, “Mei, I think I’ve met someone who can keep up with both my dim sum appetite and my Star Wars obsession.” I knew then that he was special.
Michael, I have to say, you’ve impressed us all. Not only have you mastered the art of using chopsticks, but you’ve also learned to hold your own against Lisa’s popo in mahjong. That’s true dedication!
Lisa and Michael, your relationship reminds me of the Chinese saying, “有缘千里来相会” (yǒu yuán qiān lǐ lái xiāng huì) – “If there’s a connection, a thousand miles cannot keep you apart.” Your love has indeed bridged cultures, families, and even your differing opinions on whether boba belongs in coffee (It does, Michael. Lisa’s right on this one).
In Chinese tradition, we often gift red envelopes for good luck and prosperity. Today, I’d like to give you both a metaphorical red envelope, filled not with money, but with wishes:
May your love be as strong as Chinese noodles and as lasting as American Broadway shows.
May your home be filled with the warmth of 团圆饭 (tuán yuán fàn) – reunion dinners, whether it’s over turkey at Thanksgiving or dumplings at Chinese New Year.
May you always support each other’s dreams, whether it’s Lisa’s goal to perfect her mother’s secret red bean soup recipe or Michael’s ambition to learn all the verses of “百家姓” (bǎi jiā xìng).
And may you always remember that love, like a good hot pot, is about finding the perfect balance – spicy and sweet, familiar and adventurous.
Lisa and Michael, your love story is a beautiful blend of traditions, a testament to the idea that love knows no cultural boundaries. You’ve created your own unique melody, harmonizing the songs of both your backgrounds.
So, let’s raise our glasses – baijiu, wine, or whatever you’re holding – and toast to the newlyweds. In the words of Confucius, “夫妻和好,百事兴” (fū qī hé hǎo, bǎi shì xīng) – “When husband and wife are in harmony, all things prosper.”
To Lisa and Michael! 祝你们百年好合,永结同心 (Zhù nǐ men bǎi nián hǎo hé, yǒng jié tóng xīn) – Wishing you a hundred years of good union and devotion. Ganbei!