What happens in a Chinese tea ceremony?

In a Chinese tea ceremony, the couple, often dressed in traditional attire like a qipao or a suit, kneels or stands before each set of elders in turn. The ceremony usually starts with the groom's parents, then the bride's parents, followed by grandparents and other senior relatives. The couple pours tea from a teapot into small cups, offers the cups with both hands, and addresses each elder by their proper title, such as 'Father' or 'Grandmother'. The elders drink the tea, offer words of blessing or advice, and then give the couple a red envelope containing money or a piece of jewellery as a gift. The couple then moves on to the next elder. The order and number of elders can vary by family and region, so the couple or a family member usually guides you. In the UK, the ceremony often takes place at home, a restaurant, or a hotel suite before the main wedding breakfast. It can last from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how many relatives are involved. The atmosphere is warm and formal, with laughter and sometimes tears. As a guest, you usually watch quietly, and you may be invited to receive tea if you are a close relative.