This framed photograph was donated by Mr. Tan See Fang, the owner of the Katong Bakery & Confectionary Co., fondly known as the Red House Bakery. The bakery was bought over by the owner’s father, Mr. Tan Siang Fuan in 1931 from its original owner, Mr. Jim Baker. The East Coast Road landmark was famous for its bread, Swiss rolls, curry puffs and cream cakes. It was also the first bakery in Singapore to produce a three-tier wedding cake. The bakery closed down in 2003. The adoption of Western wedding customs and attire in Singapore accelerated in the early 20th century. It was first adopted by the Eurasians and Straits Chinese, and later the Chinese and Indians. The initial change was largely attributed to the conversion to Christianity. Other possible factors for the adoption and continued popularity of this trend include the desire to be modern, having a more affordable alternative to the more expensive traditional wedding attire, and influence from Western education and mass media.
