Real Couples // Mehndi, Nikah, and Shaadi Ceremonies: Saleha + Sameer
/These two had a very traditional two-day celebration filled with modern elements, so much color, and love. On the first day they hosted the Mehndi Ceremony and Nikah Ceremony. The Mehndi Ceremony is when the bride gets her hands and feet painted in henna. The patterns are completed with intricate details, and she sports them for the rest of the ceremonies. The Nikah Ceremony is the traditional signing of the marriage contract. The couple repeats the word qabul, which means "I accept" in Arabic three times to demonstrate they are freely marrying each other. The Shaadi Ceremony is the actual wedding day. They held a huge reception and at the end of the night performed the traditional giving away of the bride. The bride's family walks them to their get away car and reflects on the joining of their new families.
Words and photos by Bri Richards
Meet Bri Richards: I'm a wedding photographer passionate about Chipotle, trap music, and diversity. For too long the wedding industry has fooled us into thinking only one type of couple is getting married, but we all know that's simply not the case. There are so many beautiful and unique love stories that deserve to be told in a dynamic way, and I embrace that as my mission. I am so pumped to be included in an organization that matches these values and empower couples to celebrate their love. The Catalyst community has an explosive message, and I'm excited to scream it from the rooftops.
