Our Wedding - Part I: Ismaili Centre Ceremony
I'm so happy to be sharing some highlights from our weekend of wedding festivities! It really was the most fun we could have had - we were so fortunate to be able to celebrate with friends and loved ones from here in Toronto, and around the world.
We kicked off the weekend with our Nikah ceremony at the Ismaili Centre in Toronto. Having a religious ceremony was never something I had imagined, but it was important to Azim and his family, and I was glad we included something so meaningful for them.
Azim and I decided on traditional outfits. He was able to re-wear his older brother's wedding outfit...although he promptly spilled sherbet down the front of it right after the ceremony! Hopefully his youngest brother wasn't planning on wearing it too :D
My mom found my saree at a church bazaar sale of all places - she picked it up for $10, believe it or not! I had my aunt sew the blouse so it fit me, and my sister-in-law's mom pleated the saree and wrapped me up before the ceremony :)
My dad walked me down the aisle, which was so nice because the next day he was the officiant for our non-denominational ceremony, and it was my mom who walked with me. I love that I had a chance with each.
I was incredibly nervous before the ceremony, but seeing Azim's face made me feel a lot better. The jitters turned into excitement, and the realization that we were finally doing this. After nine years, we were making it official!
The ceremony involves a private moment in which blessings are offered, which was my second favourite part of the ceremony. My favourite part is when I snuck in a kiss with Azim - technically not supposed to be part of the program, and I love his reaction and cheeky smile :)
Our photographer, who I will unapologetically continue to rave about, captured so many beautiful candid moments. I'm only sharing a couple, but I've looked at them all many times since, and I know I'll cherish them forever.
She did not have the best conditions to work with - it was extremely sunny, so the lighting was harsh, but she still managed to make it look dreamy and airy. She was also being pulled in many directions, because so many people were requesting pictures :) but she remained 100% professional and got the perfect shots.
I couldn't have gotten through the day without my best friend and Maid of Honour, Hanan - I love this shot that Rachel captured of us:
A few unforgettable moments from the day:
- Hiding in the wings with Azim before the ceremony, and nervously watching our guests arriving. I couldn't believe the day had come, and stage fright had definitely come over me! But holding Azim's hand, and getting a quick pep talk from him before made a big difference :)
- Fixing my makeup before the ceremony in the bathroom with Hanan. I had a lipstick emergency, and she showed up with about 20 options to fix the situation - I don't know what I'd do without her!!
- Holding Azim's hand under the table during our ceremony
- My best friend Ali making sure I had enough to eat and drink, and barricading me from guests so I could sneak in a few bites of cake!
After the ceremony Azim and I went back to our parents' houses to prepare for our wedding day at Hart House. I had my bridal party arriving at 7am for hair and makeup, so it was an early night for me! I know Azim was up very late finishing his speech :)
Stay tuned for more! Thank you so much for reading xox