Wedding story of Pegah and Ashkan

Please tell us a little bit about your location for the wedding. Why did you and your husband choose it?

For our wedding venue we chose the breathtaking Esma Sultan Yalısı Mansion in Istanbul, Turkey. Its historic waterfront location, featuring a harmonious blend of Ottoman and European architecture, along with the lush greenery draping the historic brick walls, offered the perfect balance of history and allure that instantly captured our hearts.

Were there personal touches in the decor or ceremony? Perhaps you can recall some details that are important to you.

Our Persian heritage imbued every aspect of our wedding with profound significance. From the intricate Sofreh-e-Aghd ceremony to the exquisite details woven into our decor, each element paid homage to our cultural roots. The Sofreh, symbolizing "spread" and "union" in Persian tradition, adorned our celebration space with its historical richness. Collaborating with a childhood friend/talented artist based in Iran, we carefully selected wedding favors that encapsulated the essence of our homeland: Persian Blue Salt (renowned as one of the rarest salts in the world) paired with delicate rose petals, presented in beautifully crafted handmade spoons.

What was the most memorable moment of your wedding day?

Stepping onto the yacht where our Welcome party took place and seeing our loved ones gathered from all corners of the world was a moment we'll never forget.

What made your wedding special?

The opportunity to bring together our families from near and far made our wedding truly special. It was a chance for us to share our love and happiness with all those who mean the most to us.

Were there any unexpected challenges or surprises in the planning process or wedding itself? How did you overcome them?

Fortunately, we didn't face any major challenges or surprises during the planning process or on the day itself. We had prepared meticulously for every detail within our control, allowing us to focus on simply enjoying the moment.

Five tips for couples who are planning their wedding.

·         Invest in a trusted wedding planner who shares your vision and has a proactive attitude.

·         Keep reminding each other of the ultimate goal: sharing your love and life with your loved ones.

·         Prioritize three key elements that matter most to both of you on your wedding day.

·         Embrace wedding traditions of your culture that truly resonate with your personality and values, rather than adhering to them simply for the sake of convention or societal expectations.

Five tips for brides-to-be. 

·         Pack a couple of comfortable heel options to switch into during the festivities to ensure you can dance the night away without any discomfort.

·         Clearly communicate your vision with your wedding planner early in the planning process to make sure every detail reflects your style and preference.

·         Remember to take moments throughout the day to pause, breathe, and soak in your wedding day. It goes by in the blink of an eye, so be sure to cherish every precious moment.

·         Cnsider scheduling a trial hair and makeup session with the same professionals who will be styling you on your wedding day.

Five biggest regrets on your wedding day.

We truly have no regrets! Everything that unfolded according to plan was destined, and if things deviated, they simply weren't meant to be.