There’s something truly magical about a wedding that effortlessly blends tradition and personality. Adding a backdrop of coastal beauty would be the cherry on top. Joy & Mike’s big day at the Long Beach Museum of Art did just that, showcasing an all-outdoor celebration that honored family heritage and highlighted the couple’s unique love story.

Located along the coast in the heart of Long Beach, this waterfront venue is beloved for its historic architecture, breathtaking ocean views, and expansive bluff-top lawn. As preferred planners at the Long Beach Museum of Art, we love how this space allows couples to host both their ceremony and reception outdoors with the Pacific Ocean as their backdrop. This wedding in particular was an unforgettable day filled with meaningful cultural traditions, laughter, and heartfelt moments.

Playful Door Games to Kick Off the Celebration

The day began with one of our favorite pre-ceremony rituals: Chinese door games. These lighthearted challenges are designed by the bridesmaids to test the groom and his groomsmen before they’re allowed to “gain entry” to the bride. Laughter filled the air as the groom and his crew completed hilarious tasks and heartfelt pledges. This interactive tradition set the tone for the day — fun, loving, and deeply personal.

A Meaningful Tea Ceremony Honoring Family

Before the western ceremony began, the couple participated in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony to honor their parents and elders. Held at the Rose Garden near the entrance of the venue, this moment was both intimate and powerful. Offering tea symbolizes respect and gratitude. In return, the couple received blessings and gifts from their families.

One especially touching detail was how the bride honored her late father during this ceremony. A framed photo of him was placed with care on the bench next to her mother, allowing his memory to be part of this deeply significant tradition. It was a quiet, beautiful tribute that brought both tears and smiles — a reminder that love continues across generations and that his presence was still deeply felt.

We also took some time to take portraits of the wedding party and romantics photos of the Bride & Groom before the ceremony. I love when my couples take this suggestion and run with it because it leaves so much room after the ceremony for fun or relaxing, whichever they prefer.

Ocean View Ceremony

Set on the museum’s stunning oceanfront lawn, the ceremony was a picture-perfect Southern California moment. The couple exchanged vows beneath a beautiful floral arch, framed by swaying palms and the sparkle of the Pacific in the background. With blue skies and sea breeze, the setting created a romantic and serene atmosphere for guests to witness the start of a new chapter.

Al Fresco Reception with an Ocean View

After the ceremony and cocktail hour, we moved guests back onto the lawn where now banquet-style tables adorned the space. Our bride chose a simple all-white palette to include candles and bud vases filled with white rose stems. The museum’s historic charm paired beautifully with the couple’s modern aesthetic, creating a space that was both timeless and personal.

Dinner, toasts, and dancing all took place under the stars, with the ocean as a constant and calming presence. From heartfelt speeches to the couple’s first dance, every moment was filled with joy, culture, and connection.

In lieu of a traditional wedding cake, the couple opted for a rather impressive mango sticky rice display! And as an alternative to sweet, they also offered guests the Vietnamese traditional Pâté Chaud (or bánh patê sô). Options for both a sweet or savory tooth!

Why We Love the Long Beach Museum of Art for Outdoor Weddings

As wedding planners based in Los Angeles, we’re always thrilled when couples choose the Long Beach Museum of Art. Not only is it a versatile and picturesque venue, but it also allows couples to host fully outdoor events without sacrificing comfort or elegance. The ocean views, lush lawn, and artful surroundings make it a standout choice for couples seeking a romantic coastal wedding with room for both personal touches and cultural traditions.

Planning Your Wedding at the Long Beach Museum of Art

Looking to plan a wedding at this stunning Long Beach venue? We’re proud to be preferred planners at the Long Beach Museum of Art and would love to help you design a wedding that reflects your unique love story. Whether you're dreaming of an outdoor oceanfront ceremony, incorporating cultural traditions like tea ceremonies or door games, or simply want a relaxed-yet-elegant vibe, this venue offers the perfect canvas.

Let’s bring your vision to life!

Vendor Team

Venue: Long Beach Museum of Art
Caterer: Claire’s at the Museum
Planner & Coordinator: A Fabulous Soiree
DJ & MC: Vox DJ’s
Floral Arch: Olivia’s Mum
Glam: Luong Lasting Team
Photo & Video: The Love Select
Mango Sticky Rice: My Mango Sticky Rice

Cultural Coastal Wedding at Long Beach Museum of Art | Joy & Mike