Rija & Uzair

WEDDING INSPIRATION

The inspiration for the events came from multiple places, but most crucially from the traditional purpose / expectations of how these events are normally conducted. We wanted to preserve some of that traditionalism while adding a new or unique twist for each of the events, all while ensuring that we’d be able to make the best of memories with our guests.

We wanted the nikkah to be a smaller, quieter function, opting for pastel and lighter shades in our outfits and having an afternoon ceremony at the mosque.

For the mehndi, we wanted to incorporate all the traditional elements of colour with a tropical twist that was evident in our decor and stationary, coupled with a good amount of fun and festive dancing.

The goal of the shaadi was to be more of a traditional elegance, focusing on the reds and golds and regal elements that gave the venue and ourselves more of a royal effect.

The theme of the reception was contemporary elegance and our goal was to ensure our last event would be the most memorable with a gorgeous canopy stage, a larger emphasis on the colour white in the decor, and an entertainment filled program that included magic, singing, speeches, and an ample amount of dancing.

SHE SAID

It’s difficult to pick and single out one particular moment from, what I can happily say, was one of the most memorable weeks in my life, but ultimately, I would have to say my favourite moment was the photo shoot prior to heading to our reception. We chose to have out photo shoot on our university campus where we had first met 7 years prior. It was a beautiful walk down memory lane reminding us how far we had come.

HE SAID

Every moment of the wedding was memorable in it’s own way and each was a favourite for it’s own reason. Having to choose though, I would pick the photo shoot we had before leaving to go to the shaadi. I guess I expected everything to feel much more stressful but here we were at this historic house with our photo and video vendors who made us feel so at ease while we all cracked jokes and completed the shoot. I think this moment was great because it was signifying how comfortable we both were with one another at such a paramount time in our life and I couldn’t ask for anything better.

WEDDING TIPS & ADVICE

Our best advice for future brides and grooms would be to sit down together and determine what they would consider to be the most important features or outcomes for their future event. Once you have decided what is most important, you are able to make many decisions much more easily such as which vendor is better able to help you achieve that effect in your event, or which aspects of your event to spend more money on and which aspects to reduce money on.

Always research your vendors thoroughly and follow your instincts in terms of choosing the vendors that make you the most comfortable and help put you at ease since weddings can be stressful. If you’re opting for a more complex event, like we did, a wedding planner is invaluable in ensuring everything runs smoothly and that you are able to make the most of this important time in your life with your partner, friends, and family. Happy planning and enjoy every moment!