This wedding was a truly special one. Not only because Rinzin and Michael decided to honor Rinzin’s Tibetan roots with their wedding, but also because I have known Rinzin for a few years and it felt like an especially big honor to photograph their wedding day for them. It was a quite cold Wednesday in mid-April when we met up at the Peterhofstatt in Zurich for their First Look. Rinzin wore a stunning traditional Tibetan dress with beautiful, colorful ornaments. They come in many colors but not many styles, so the color was the biggest surprise for Michael. Michael, who is originally from the US, opted for a mix of both cultures with a Tibetan shirt paired with western pants and jacket.

After the First Look we headed to the town hall for the ceremony. Unfortunately, only the bridal couple and the witnesses were allowed in the room at that point. Just a week later the regulations changed and up to 15 people could attend, so it really bummed me out that Rinzin and Michael couldn’t share this moment with their loved ones. But the guests - who were waiting outside - didn’t seem to be bothered by it. Instead, they welcomed the newlyweds with confetti and a beautiful Tibetan tradition where every guest draped a white silken scarf around the bride and groom in a way to congratulate them on their marriage.

Most guests also came dressed in Tibetan traditional clothing which looked absolutely stunning and differed a lot from the weddings I usually get to photograph :) But I thoroughly enjoyed it.

We took some group photos on the bridge, had a few traditional snacks (yum!) and then continued to take some more pictures in the Old Town. Unbeknownst to Rinzin, Michael had organized for her friends to come and meet them later since they couldn’t attend right after the ceremony because of Covid-regulations. So Michael and I hatched a plan to lure Rinzin away from Town Hall and take some pictures while their friends assembled and waited for them. And seeing her look of surprise was definitely worth it in the end!

Rinzin and Michael, once again I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your trust. It was a wonderful day and I can’t wait to reminisce about it when we meet each other soon!