A Lantern Filled, Night Market Inspired Wedding

Some wedding days go exactly as planned. Others take an unexpected turn, and become even more meaningful because of it.

June and Kenny’s wedding was meant to be outdoors at Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery, inspired by the vibrant energy of an Asian night market. Lanterns, color, movement, and community were at the center of the vision. But as the day arrived, so did the storms. Plans shifted quickly, and the entire celebration moved indoors, thanks to the JLK Weddings team. And honestly? Not a single ounce of joy was lost?

What made this day unforgettable wasn’t the setting, it was the people. Family filled the room with laughter, warmth, and presence, turning the indoor space into something intimate and alive. The energy felt communal, just like a night market should: people gathered close, conversations overlapping, and moments unfolding naturally.

One of the most powerful parts of the day was the Laotian string ceremony. Surrounded by loved ones, the couple was honored through this meaningful tradition. Watching the family members come up to tie strings, sharing well wishes, and grounding the day in heritage was a reminder that weddings are about more than aesthetics. They’re about legacy, connection, and intention.

Even with the rain and last-minute changes, this wedding never slowed down. It adapted. It leaned into what mattered most. And it became a celebration rooted in culture, family, and togetherness. Proof that when the focus is on love, nothing can derail the day.