WASHINGTON DUKE INN WEDDING | PERSIAN WEDDING | DURHAM WEDDING PLANNER

Shannon and Mani’s wedding at Washington Duke Inn celebrated not only the many things they have in common (from their careers at Duke Hospital that introduced them to one another to their love for the outdoors), but also, the unique qualities that they each bring to their relationship. Most notably, they honored the groom’s heritage through a traditional Persian wedding ceremony.

In lieu of the bold colors that are traditionally used, the ceremony was designed in a neutral palette of silver and greens that the bride loved. This setting for their first moments as husband and wife perfectly represented the blending of traditions that is sure to play a big role in their marriage. It’s not every day that you see a Persian “Sofreh Aghd” (wedding table) alongside oh-so-Southern monogrammed ceremony programs, after all!

Each detail on the Sofreh Aghd has a special meaning, from the mirror that represents a bright future for the couple to the honey that symbolizes sweetness in their life together. After Shannon’s father walked her down the aisle (a special moment in itself, since he was recovering from an illness and had been using a walker), Shannon and Mani were married beneath the shade of the “Tureh Ghand,” a sugar cloth held by happily married women in their lives. The reception took place inside the Washington Duke Inn, where Tre Bella Florist used greenery and richly colored dahlias and garden roses to bring the outdoors in. Three hundred guests made for quite the celebration, but thanks to the focus on family and tradition throughout the day, it still felt intimate and special.

Silver Sofreh Aghd Table Durham Wedding.jpg

Sofreh Aghd Table NC Persian Wedding.jpg

Shannon’s taste for natural elements mixed with the gorgeous floral arbor behind the ceremony. We chose navy lace linens with light sequins so mimic the lace in her gown which was also carried into her wedding cake.

Guests were greeted at cocktail hour with a gorgeous escort card table, glasses of champagne and small bites.

To carry the silver accents through the reception we used silver chargers. We wanted to bring the natural element to the ballroom and chose to alternate tall arrangements.