Glamorous Arab Wedding Full of Cultural Traditions at The Westin Anaheim Resort in California
Mariam and Nadeem describe themselves as an obvious match from the start after both swiped right on a dating app and met in person. Soon after, they introduced one another to family and friends. With their shared cultural heritage, they became official with a traditional tulba ceremony, where Nadeem and his family came to ask for Mariam’s hand at her parents’ home. Months later, Nadeem made an additional proposal for his future bride, a more private moment they shared at home. Mariam recounts, “The moment was sweet, genuine and natural to our relationship. It was an easy yes!”
It wasn’t long before this happy couple began planning a legal, religious ceremony in 2022, but they wanted the chance to celebrate with their loved ones in a more “exciting and fun” affair later on. This larger affair was a traditional Arab wedding with the couple’s focus on luxury, florals and celebration. “It was a black-tie event with timeless and elegant decor in white and blush hues,” the bride explains. “Flowers took center stage at our wedding and completely set the style and vibe for the day.” This floral motif was present on the cake, in the centerpieces and even as dangling displays from the ceiling.
The focus on glam continued beyond the decor, with the bride and groom ensuring they dressed to the nines. Mariam wanted a traditional and modest look, which required some customization. It took many trips to Couturier Sadie Mardiha before she eventually found a mermaid-style Calle Blanche dress at Schaffer’s Bridal in Scottsdale, Arizona which she was able to modify for a long-sleeved style that covered the neck and back for a timeless look that paid tribute to her beliefs. “The look was paired with a royal cathedral-length veil custom-made by Sadie, with lace and floral appliqués all around the edges. The veil was my favorite part of my wedding look; it was absolutely magical," Mariam says. She also added a turban-style covering to her veil to complete the look, courtesy of Hijab Couture Bridal. The groom opted for something simple but still on-theme, a classic tuxedo that fits the “something new” tradition since it was a custom gift from his father, and matching patent leather shoes.
Mariam's wedding morning began with her moms, aunts and cousins, who joined her for brunch as the hair and makeup team worked their magic. The official start to their wedding day was brought on by a Palestinian Zaffa, a party at their home with close friends and family, “where the groom and his family arrive to 'pick up the bride' with a processional of drums and bagpipes.” This was a sentimental part of the day for Mariam since this is when her dad “gave her away,” and when she exchanged rings with Nadeem. This joyous and festive Zaffa set the tone for the rest of the day, which was full of even more music and celebration as they headed to their reception space.
Before spending the reception at The Westin Anaheim Resort in California, the two stole some time away at the Mission San Juan Capistrano for newlywed photos. This backdrop provided a vintage, Spanish-style venue for unforgettable pictures, with their planner adding, “The scenery was breathtaking, and it was the perfect way to capture the essence of the newlyweds' love for each other.”
Ready to party the night away, Mariam and Nadeem arrived at The Westin Anaheim Resort and were in awe over the lavish decor and breathtaking venue space. Crediting this work to their floral designer, Cat at Three Petals, Mariam says, “I showed her a few ideas I was inspired by and a color palette I was interested in, but otherwise gave her full reigns to design the day. I was right to trust her because the decor was more beautiful than I could've ever imagined.”
The couple contributed to the lively reception in other ways by adding custom mocktails to their menu and encouraging guests to mingle, dance and spend the night celebrating their union. Beyond the DJs, they even included some traditional music to immerse guests in the culture. “Our dinner entertainment involved an Arabic string instrument called the kanun and a drum called the tabla. They provided beautiful music while still allowing our guests to socialize during their meal,” the couple says. The photo booth gave guests a fun reception activity while allowing Mariam and Nadeem something to look back on from their busy but exciting day.
When reflecting on their celebration, the love birds thank their vendors for creating so much upbeat energy while providing luxury experiences and placing their love story at the forefront. Mariam notes, “My wedding wouldn't have been what it was without [our vendors]. At the end of the day, when wedding planning becomes difficult, it's important to remember the love that you're celebrating––the wedding is just the start of a whole lifetime together with the one you love.”