When it comes to The Black & White Issue, we want to make sure we give you all the inspiration and so, we’re breaking our own tradition and sharing a wedding on a Saturday, because well, when you see the day of Zeinab and Gassan? You’ll see why we couldn’t resist!

Salt Atelier joined the pair on what was a day steeped in tradition, but also rain (record-breaking) and family. Just as Zeinab and Gassan had dreamed.

The pair met through Zeinab’s brother – a foundation for their relationship built a long time ago! Tells the bride “Gassan (Gas for short) has been my brother’s lifelong best friend! So we’ve practically known each other our whole lives!” The groom proposing, much like the rest of this day, in a very traditional way. “Our proposal was formal as per our traditions. In July 2020, he formally proposed with both families present and of course I said yes!”

Gassan dressed in classic black, tells Zeinab “He wore a true gentlemen’s suit. Classic all black from Liondos Suits with a crisp white shirt complimented by a classic bow tie. James Bond-style.”

The bride’s stunning gown was made by Emoda Couture.  Zeinab sharing “My dress was timeless. A classic Grace Kelly style gown, with a modern twist. My vision was perfectly captured by my dressmaker. The process of custom making my gown was my favourite part of wedding planning. Maria from Emoda couture was amazing!”

The beautiful blooms of the day?  Styled by Blooms N’ More Florist. “A mixture of fresh and everlasting. Soft pinks and whites to complement the theme.”

The bride’s favourite part of the day? “Of course my husband and the celebration of love, being surrounded by my loved ones (family & friends), the photos our amazing team captured, record-breaking rain which made our day so memorable (we had a blast).”

The couple chose an at-home ceremony. “Our ceremony was intimate, traditional and full of love. Just as we envisioned.”

And then the merriment began! “We danced out of my house to the sound of traditional drums and the flute, what we call a zaffet. It was really special” The couple celebrating with their families for a sit-down lunch catered by Hayat and Fay Catering. “We had lots of good food and dessert. Our caterers are the best in the business and we know how important good food is.”

The newlyweds headed off for time alone with their photographers. “I’d have to say our photos were my favourite part of the day” tells the bride. “Our photography team made the process seamless. No fake and unnatural poses. They captured candid moments perfectly. Lots of laughs and tears involved.”

Zeinab shares this advice “Rather than planning the perfect wedding, look to build the perfect marriage. Our wedding was traditional and intimate. We did not have a reception but the day was perfect because it was spent celebrating love with those who matter most. On the day, don’t stress about the finer details. It all falls into place with the right vendors of course, but focus more on enjoying every passing moment. Our wedding day was the best day of our lives!”

Zeinab’s favourite photo of the day is full of joy. “The black and white photograph of us laughing hysterically as our great photography team captured the candid moment is my favourite.”

“I could not recommend a better team. Salt Atelier (Jay + team) were the perfect group to capture our special day” raves Zeinab, “Their style is natural, their images perfect and their service is personal and unbeatable. So grateful for them!”

Rain (and epic amounts of it) dampened no spirits in this day! “Our wedding day was the wettest day on record” remembers Zeinab, “Rain that did not stop from morning until night with record millimetres recorded. As crazy as it sounds, it made our day so memorable and we honestly had a blast.”

Congratulations to you both Zeinab and Gassan on your marriage! Thank you for sharing your beautiful wedding with us. Thank you to Salt Atelier for sharing today’s story!