Nader and Haajar had a lovely Palestinian and Egyptian wedding at Dinolfo’s Banquets in Homer Glen. I’m glad we were able to do a Fall engagement session with them which you should check out on the previous blog post! The wedding took place two days before the country went into quarantine so we were all very lucky to get one more completed celebration for 2020. Dinolfo’s Banquet’s has several different spots for nice wedding portraits: The courtyard, the double stair lobby and the second floor level.
For this Arabic wedding reception, Haajar wore long sleeve lace wedding dress that paired beautifully with her delicate accessories and bouquet. It was the perfect I was so happy to see it was easy for her to move around in as well because many times my brides have heavy outfits that are difficult to maneuver. I always love to take pictures outside and inside the banquet hall. So we began with the first look and portraits in the courtyard. Dinolfo’s Banquets also has a beautiful lobby which we took full advantage of by doing wide shots of the couple in between the gorgeous double staircase.
The wedding decor colors at Dinolfo’s Banquets were my favorite; blush, white and creams! It balanced beautifully with the architecture and grandeur of the wedding venue. I loved taking details of the decor, dessert tables, and all the little wedding details Haajar put together so thoughtfully. One beautiful touch were the handmade mini pies that were placed as wedding favors at each of the tables. It was unique and DELICIOUS (I have a really bad sweet tooth).
The wedding celebration started with the raucous Zaffa band. In Egyptian and other Arab cultures, musical procession of men playing bendir drums, bagpipes, horns and singing songs. It was a sight to see! The music, dancing and fun were a blast to watch and capture. After the performance in the lobby, the reception continued in the ballroom with entrances of all the family members, and of course the bride and groom. I loved capturing Nader’s reaction when Haajar placed the ring on his finger!
Speeches are one of my favorite moments during a reception because they are so heartfelt, funny and emotional. Hearing from people that know Haajar and Nader only emphasized what amazing people this couple is. It was really an honor to be a part of this milestone. Congratulations Nader and Haajar!!
Wedding Vendors:
Photo and Film: Maha Studios
Decor: Elegant Bouquets
Venue: Dinolfo’s Banquets in Homer Glen
Bridal Dress: Elegance Wedding and Evening Wear
Favors: Nana’s Gourmet Goodies
DJ: Heba Chatat
Makeup: Brushworks by Dima
Cake and Dessert Table: Fruit Zina
If you enjoyed how we captured this Arab muslim wedding in Chicago, please share this page with someone who might be planning their own wedding. We capture love of all backgrounds, cultures and religions! Maha Studios is based out of Chicago and San Francisco but we travel to any destination our clients take us.
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Maha Studios is a destination photography studio that delights in the vibrant traditions and rituals at the heart of South Asian and multicultural weddings.