Going to jump into a time machine and head back to 2020 so we can take a deep dive into my first ever U.S Pakistani wedding, in Plano TX. I was nervous flying out for the first time in what seemed like forever because everything was still relatively shut down in August, but I’m so glad I took this on! It was one of my most memorable events in a year full of so many unknowns. Imaan and Yousuf had big dreams for their originally planned wedding events and, like most pandemic nuptials, they had to pivot at the last moment. In one month’s notice, they put together something entirely different. The end result was breathtaking! They proved that a stunning wedding can be put together even in the most stressful situations. All you need is creativity, courage and some luck! Let’s take a closer look:

Getting Ready

Imaan got ready at her mother’s home and I could tell that her warmth was a signature characteristic of her whole family. They were so inviting and kind, and their home reflected those same qualities. It made for a beautiful backdrop – high vaulted ceilings, generous natural light brightening the space, and of course, laughter and joy to tie it all together. Her mom and friends helped her get ready and it was a relaxing start to the big day. 

Imaan wore a classic Zara Shahjahan gown for her wedding, paired with sapphire blue Manolo Blahniks for a nice pop of colour. Her heirloom wedding jewelry, passed down by her mother, added a traditional and timeless aura. Other details such as incorporating fresh baby’s breath flowers in her hair that just subtly peaked out from under a translucent dupatta completed the full “vision in white” with a desi twist, of course. 

Couple’s portraits

Imaan and Yousuf were such a sweet couple to work with and we had a lot of fun during their couple session. Yousuf’s deep red shawl was a vibrant contrasting element to offset the creamy white, antique golds and cream tones in both their outfits. I love it when couples choose to mix traditional and modern looks and this one really worked! A lovely detail was the name of their alma mater embroidered into the shawl. They met in college and it was a sweet reminder about their journey as a couple as they begin a new chapter of life together. 

The venue/event

I remember when I shared a few shots of this wedding on social media when I was on-site, I got so many inquiries about the location because it truly looked like a vast parkscape dotted with old and magnificent trees. Sorry to disappoint folks – it was the mother of the bride’s backyard! It opened up to an adjacent golf course so it created an expansive rolling greens vibe. Imaan’s family home was beautiful inside and out, and it was the perfect venue for an intimate celebration. 

The first thing that caught my eye was the lush floral canopy that was created in the shade of the towering custard apple tree. In such a picturesque outdoor setting, not a lot is needed to make the space sing and come to life. Fresh florals with hints of coral, pink, violet and lots of greens to pull it together; Endless candles and string lights criss-crossing above head; ornate and tasteful furniture to make the outdoor setting lush and inviting and of course my personal favourite – golden hour sun rays to set the stage! The food was excellent and seemingly endless because there was a live BBQ station beside the swimming pool. 

The covid era of weddings really proved that intimate events in family homes are a wonderful option and I hope this trend continues for those who want it. We all know there used to be such a taboo around small scale functions and dealing with the “log kya kahainge” crowd, but not anymore! It was an evening that brought together families and friends to shower the loving couple with blessings and hugs. And that’s what all weddings should be about! 

Thank you to Imaan and Yousuf for making me feel so welcomed. It was heartwarming to hear that working with me was one of their favourite things about the whole event and that meant a lot. Coming up to almost 2 years since this event affirms that this experience will always hold a special place in my heart. Ready to head back to Texas soon! 

Kind words from the bride:

I hired Qurrat for our wedding day that ended up being an outdoor Texas pandemic wedding and I cannot say enough WONDERFUL things about her. She captures such bright, airy, colorful photos that have been sooo fun to look at!!! My guests have loved the photos!!! She also takes a TON of photos, and has them available in beautiful bound albums, so no moments are missed! She accommodated to the COVID pandemic, wore a mask and was safe the whole time, gave us directions on poses, timing, adjusted outfits, gave my family directions (in the best way), went with the flow, etc. She was an absolute professional and also a super sweet person 🙂
I had heard from friends that it is important to hire a photographer who understands Muslim weddings because others may not understand the significance of/capture certain traditions, small moments, etc. This was something I kept in mind for our Nikkah and I think is important to consider.