Classic, Luxury, Emotional, and Fun | Encore + Ming’s Seafood Wedding

February 4, 2026

A Day That Blended Emotion, Glamour, and Family

Kim and James’ wedding day was filled with elegance and heart. From getting ready at Encore Casino, to an elevated ceremony at Ming’s Seafood in Quincy, to an insanely energetic Labubu Toss, they truly made this day their own.

Their day was the perfect mix of luxury and intimacy, combining cinematic details with genuine emotion — everything I love about documentary wedding photography.

An Emotional First Look at Encore Boston Harbor

Quiet Moments Before the Celebration

Encore’s architecture and soft morning light created a stunning setting for Kim and James’ first look. The moment was raw and real. Both of them shed tears as they saw each other for the first time and read the private vows that they wrote to each other. They smiled through their happy tears, and trust me, there wasn’t a dry eye watching them.

From Elegant to Energetic: The Ming’s Seafood Reception

Family, Food, and Unforgettable Energy

When we arrived at Ming’s Seafood in Quincy, the energy shifted from serene to celebratory. Guests filled the room with laughter and cheers as delicious courses rolled out one after another. If you’ve been to an asian wedding, you know that it’s all about the food and drinks! Ming’s provided a delicious 10+ course meal, and Kim and James roamed around to each table for chào bàn. This is when the bride, groom, and often their parents, walk to each table to thank guests, toast with cognac or beer, take photos, and receive gifts or red envelopes.

Kim and James wanted to be fully present — enjoying every toast, every bite, every dance. I focused on documenting real moments — the clinking glasses, joyful hugs, and emotional speeches that made the night unforgettable.

Instead of a classic bouquet toss, Kim and James opted for a Labubu toss. Yes. A Labubu toss. As you can probably imagine, the second they held out the Labubu boxes, the crowd roared with energy. Kids, adults, men, women, everyone tried their best to catch the Labubu’s. This was a hilarious and personal touch to their wedding, and I loved photographing it.

After the chaotic frenzy of the Labubu toss, the dance floor opened. DJ Sky kept the dance floor hype and full of energy, playing instant hits like JUMP by Blackpink, and Golden from this year’s hit, KPop Demon Hunters.

Documentary Wedding Photography with a Film Touch

Storytelling Through Emotion and Texture

Throughout the day, I mixed digital, 35mm film, and Polaroid to capture both cinematic portraits and candid documentary moments. Film added a nostalgic softness to the refined energy of Encore and Ming’s, while digital let me capture the fast-paced celebration in stunning detail.

A Celebration Rooted in Love and Presence

Kim and James’ day was proof that luxury and authenticity can coexist beautifully. It was a day of emotion, family, and joy — everything a wedding should be.

If you’re planning a Boston or New England wedding and want photos that tell your story honestly and artfully, I’d love to be part of it.

Contact Rachael Shek Photography here.