Neveen and Ahmad: Staying True to Tradition

Written by: Clare Spencer

Photography by: Oscar Productions

http://myoscarpro.com/

Neveen came to Mimi's with specific requirements for her gown. For her wedding gown to fall within the guidelines of her faith, it needed to have long sleeves. It also needed to meet the approval of her mother, mother-in-law, sister-in-law and best friend. Neveen felt like everyone at Mimi's was positive and sweet, she especially enjoyed working with her bridal consultant.

"She listened to what I wanted. If I didn't like a dress, she would take it off right away [...]. She was very considerate of my time and my opinion."

Neveen knew from the moment she put on her wedding gown (an Allure Bridals ball gown) that it was the one she wanted. But before she could give the final say she had to show it to her entourage. As soon as she stepped out of the dressing room everyone was in agreement that this was 'The One'. The original design of the gown was an all lace bodice ball gown with a high neckline and tulle skirt. It was sleeveless. If she had gone with exactly how the sample looked it would not have followed her belief requirements. However, the designer was able to make some minor changes that Neveen wanted and enough extra lace was ordered to extend the sleeves during alterations by her seamstress.

"That was important to me because I wear a hijab [...] and I need the sleeves to be long. I was so happy they respected my religion and my culture."

Neveen and her husband, Ahmad are from Lebanon and both were born and raised in Dearborn, Michigan. They went to high school together but it wasn't until they attended the University of Michigan-Dearborn that they became friends. However, it wasn't until much later that they actually started dating. Neveen went on to earn her Master's at Wayne State University and it was at her graduation party that Ahmad decided to propose. It was a moment when all their family and friends were present.

"It was very unexpected which is what made it perfect!"

The next moment when all their family and friends were gathered to celebrate another milestone was the day of their wedding. It decided to rain a lot that day which could make a bride panic but not Neveen. Unfortunately what could make her panic was having her make-up appointment booked for the wrong time. Luckily, the manager of the shop next door contacted the salon owner and the mistake was fixed. All in all everything worked out. Even though it rained for much of the day, their photographer, Oscar Productions, worked around the rain and made the photos turn out beautifully.

"He had an amazing team that was so patient and professional."

After all that rain the newly married couple honeymooned in Mexico, where they could enjoy the outdoor weather because, naturally, the weather was perfect.

Neveen's advice to other brides and newly engaged couples:

"...Cherish every minute of your wedding day. The day comes and goes so fast. It will all be over before you know it, and you're going to wish you could go back and do it all over again!"