Vietnamese beauty queen, billionaire heir get engaged in grand tradition

She’s a former beauty queen who’s captured the nation’s heart; he’s a business executive from one of Vietnam’s wealthiest families.

On Wednesday morning, in a ceremony steeped in Vietnamese tradition, Nguyen Phuong Nhi, 23, and Phạm Nhat Minh Hoang, 25, announced their engagement, combining charm and family legacy in a celebration to remember.

Elegance meets tradition

The engagement took place at Phuong Nhi’s family home in Thanh Hoa City, about 150 km (93 miles) south of capital Hanoi, set amidst a backdrop of pink and white decorations that radiated charm and grace. 

The event included traditional customs: offering of gifts, introductory meetings between the families, and ceremonial rituals. 

Guests were greeted with a warm, solemn atmosphere as the couple, flanked by family, exchanged meaningful traditions that formalised their long-term relationship.

Who are they?

Hoang, 25, is no stranger to the limelight. The second son of Vietnam’s richest billionaire, Phạm Nhat Vuong (net worth estimated at $4.1 billion, as per Forbes), Minh Hoang serves as the Global Marketing Director for automaker VinFast and leads multiple other projects in Vietnam’s business world.

Phuong Nhi, 23, was second runner-up in Miss World Vietnam 2022, who gained international renown for her charm and poise. She went on to represent Vietnam in the 2023 Miss International competition, earning a spot in the top 15.

She currently goes to Hanoi Law University.

On Wednesday, she dazzled in traditional Vietnamese gown. 

Groom's party

The groom’s party arrived early in Thanh Hoa, where they stayed at a local hotel to finalise preparations for the big day.

The couple’s families pulled out all the stops for this milestone.

In a touching display of heritage, Hoang donned an impeccably tailored cream-white “áo dài”, leading his groomsmen in presenting lavish gifts to the bride’s family. 

Here's the Vietnamese site PKT's coverage of the event.

Though Phuong Nhi had recently stepped away from public view, rumours swirled about her preparing for marriage. 

Those speculations culminated in Wednesday’s grand announcement, tying together her beauty queen background with one of the most influential families in Vietnam.

Tradition meets modernity

From the meticulous rituals to the vibrant pink and white decorations, the event seamlessly blended cultural heritage with modern opulence.

Vietnamese billionaire Phạm Nhat Vong led the entourage alongside his wife, Phạm Thu Huong, in presenting gifts and performing engagement rites.

With a convoy of cars, protective bodyguards, and an atmosphere brimming with festivity, this high-profile engagement gave onlookers a glimpse into Vietnam’s fusion of legacy, love, and luxury.

Traditional rituals followed.

These included the offering of tea and wine to their grandparents and parents — a heartfelt gesture that introduced the families to one another formally.

Bride’s family

The bride’s family home served as the centerpiece for this celebration. 

Onlookers gathered outside the three-story residence, glimpsing the elegant procession. Relatives and guests posed for photos in the decorated setting while awaiting the official arrival of Hoang’s family convoy.

For added privacy, bodyguards accompanied the procession.

Phuong Nhi’s personal story adds depth to this fairy-tale engagement. Raised by parents who ran a household goods business, she has remained grounded despite her international fame. 

While preparing for her wedding, she also stayed focused on her studies at Hanoi Law University.

Hoang, on the other hand, grew up in the sprawling legacy of VinGroup.

As of now, Forbes estimates his father’s net worth at $4.1 billion, cementing him as the wealthiest man in Vietnam.

This event isn’t just about a couple’s love story — it’s where timeless traditions meet bold ambitions, creating a union that blends tradition with modern glitz. It’s a tale the worlds of business and glamour will be eagerly watching.