Crazy Rich Asians (Crazy Rich Asians, #1)

by Kevin Kwan

The bridesmaids lifted their branches of cherry blossom high into the air, forming eight floral arches leading up to the altar, and the front doors of the church flung open dramatically. The bride appeared at the threshold, and there was a collective gasp from the crowd.

We re-created the lit blossoms and fireflies in the wedding scene for the movie, but the aisle filling up with water was actually lifted from a scene in "China Rich Girlfriend," the sequel to "Crazy Rich Asians." Jon Chu, the director, needed a jaw-dropping, unforgettable moment for his wedding scene, and it remains my favorite in the film. I tear up every time the sound goes to zero and Sonoya Mizuno, who plays Araminta Lee to perfection, first steps onto the water in her water proof wedding gown.