Weddings

The Packard Proving Grounds: Sarah + Chong’s Hmong Wedding

September 11, 2024

Sarah and Chong’s wedding day at The Packard Proving Grounds was a beautiful blend of honoring family traditions and celebrating the start of their new chapter together. The historic setting, with its vintage charm and wide open spaces, made the perfect backdrop for a day filled with love, laughter, and connection.

Their Hmong heritage shone through in the details, the ceremonial elements, traditional attire, and blessings from elders. It was moving to see generations come together, sharing stories, exchanging smiles, and offering their heartfelt wishes.

Beyond the traditions, there were those quiet, everyday moments that made the day feel so genuine — kids running across the grounds, relatives catching up under the shade, and Sarah and Chong stepping aside for a few minutes just to be together.

When the sun began to set, string lights flickered on, the music grew softer, and everyone gathered close. It wasn’t extravagant, but it didn’t need to be. It was a celebration of two families, two cultures, and the simple joy of a life just beginning.

Venue: The Packard Proving Grounds
Sarah’s Dress: The Bride’s Project

Flat lay of details during Sarah & Chong's wedding at The Packard Proving Grounds.
Bride and groom during their wedding ceremony at The Packard Proving Grounds.
Couple surrounded by family during their Hmong wedding celebration.
Wedding ceremony setup at The Packard Proving Grounds.
Joyful portrait of the couple outside The Packard Proving Grounds after their wedding.
Bride and groom exchanging a quiet moment during their wedding day.
Bride and groom during their Hmong wedding at The Packard Proving Grounds.
Reception décor inside The Packard Proving Grounds.
Couple surrounded by family during the khi tes ceremony at The Packard Proving Grounds.
White strings tied around Sarah and Chong’s wrists during their Hmong khi tes tradition.
Sarah smiling while guests participate in the khi tes ceremony.
Guests gathering closely around Sarah and Chong during the Hmong khi tes ritual.
Group gathered together during the khi tes at The Packard Proving Grounds.
Family members blessing the couple in the Hmong khi tes ritual.
Traditional Hmong wedding attire at The Packard Proving Grounds.
Bride and groom smiling with white blessing strings after the khi tes.
Evening wedding portraits of Sarah and Chong at The Packard Proving Grounds.

Behind The Lens

About Michele

Mom, Wife, Photographer, Volunteer, Joy Seeker, Faith Driven, Compassionate, Artistic, Creative and Grateful.

Michele is an expert in the industry with over a decade of experience. Spending most of her time raising her kids, volunteering at church, entertaining friends, taking care of her family. As a Southeast Michigan wedding photographer the client experience is her biggest priority. Ultimately wanting to be a part of your day, not only your photographer but a trusted friend. 

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