The Traditions

Raised in the U.S. and born in Iran, Ellie wanted to honor her heritage with a Persian ceremony but did not want to ignore the American culture that permeates her and Eddie's life together. So the couple decided to say I do twice. Guests first gathered in the breathtaking rotunda at San Francisco's City Hall for the traditional Western service. The ceremony programs, designed by the couple, featured the symbol for double happiness, a nod to Eddie's Chinese heritage. Next up: the Persian ceremony at the Palace Hotel. Ellie and Eddie rendered the Garden Court, a majestic domed space with columns and greenery, even more breathtaking with calla lily arrangements and rose petals scattered down the aisle. In keeping with Persian tradition, the couple included an elaborate spread on the floor with a mirror, decorated eggs and a tray of colorful herbs, each with its own symbolic meaning. Rose petals showered the bride and groom, a Persian custom, as they were pronounced husband and wife.