When Nazli and Brooks chose Willow and Stone Events in Mocksville, North Carolina, as the venue for their wedding, they knew they had found a place that resonated deeply with their vision for the day. Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Mocksville, this venue offered not only breathtaking views and charming fireplaces but also the warmth and hospitality of its kind owners—qualities that made Nazli fall in love with it instantly.
Nazli, originally from Iran, had always dreamed of incorporating her rich cultural heritage into her wedding ceremony. The fusion of Iranian traditions with the couple’s modern love story created a truly unique and memorable celebration. With her family traveling to the United States on special visas, this wedding was more than just a union of two people; it was a blend of cultures, traditions, and love that spanned across continents.
For Nazli, planning a wedding in the United States was a new experience. She discovered just how different the process is compared to her home country. In Iran, The groom’s parents traditionally handle the wedding planning. Here, Nazli found herself diving into every detail, learning along the way. She created a day that would beautifully blend her Iranian roots with the couple’s life together in the U.S.
Nazli and Brooks’ love story began in grad school. It was nurtured through years of long-distance relationship, with Brooks working in France and later in Atlanta. Their journey together, filled with challenges and triumphs, led to a heartfelt proposal at Trome in Atlanta. It marked the beginning of their next chapter together. After the wedding, the couple planned to move to Philadelphia to start their new life as husband and wife.
The couple’s wedding day was nothing short of magical. Nazli chose a stunning gown by Justin Alexander from English Bridal in Clemmons. It perfectly complemented her hair and makeup from her trusted Alkali Hair Studio. Her bridesmaids looked radiant in dresses from Birdy Grey and Azazi. The groom and groomsmen donned classic suits from Generation Tux.
One of the most emotional moments of the day was Nazli’s first look with her father. After getting ready in the beautifully renovated bridal suite, she shared a tender moment with him. She received a traditional and special gift—a necklace to wear during the wedding, symbolizing their deep bond and her father’s blessings for her future.
Nazli and Brooks then shared a private first look. They exchanged personal vows, adding an intimate touch to their wedding day. This moment also allowed us to capture more portraits of the couple. We took advantage of the stunning backdrop that Willow and Stone Events provides.
Their ceremony was a beautiful blend of Iranian and Western traditions. To ensure all their guests could follow along, Nazli and Brooks provided a guide explaining each part of the ceremony. The couple sat in front of the Sofreh Aghd, a traditional Persian wedding spread filled with symbolic items.
During the ceremony, the wedding party held a lace veil above the bride and groom. Special women, including their mothers, took turns rubbing sugar cones over the couple. This ritual, meant to shower the couple with sweetness, was a touching tribute to Nazli’s heritage. As a token of appreciation, the couple gifted each guest a large raw crystal of sugar. It symbolized their wish for sweetness in their lives.
Nazli’s family adorned the Sofreh Aghd with items representing blessings for the couple’s new life together. Candles brought light, a mirror symbolized energy and clarity, and almonds and nuts represented abundance. Bread, cheese, and herbs were also included to symbolize prosperity.
After exchanging vows and sharing their first kiss as husband and wife, Nazli and Brooks fed each other honey from the Sofreh Aghd. This is a tradition that wished them a sweet life together.
Following the ceremony, the couple and their guests enjoyed a reception filled with joy, laughter, and dancing. The picturesque property of Willow and Stone Events provided the perfect setting for their sunset portraits. We captured the golden hues that this venue is renowned for.
Dinner was a culinary delight prepared by Providence Catering. They are a nonprofit based out of Winston-Salem, known for its delicious and heartfelt dishes. The couple’s cake and desserts were beautifully crafted by Curbside Cakery, adding a sweet finish to the evening.
The reception was a lively celebration. A Night to Remember DJ keept the dance floor packed with a mix of American and Iranian music. Guests enjoyed dancing the night away, with fun props adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities. As the night came to a close, Nazli and Brooks shared a private last dance. Then they made a grand exit through a sea of bubbles, surrounded by the love of their friends and family.
Nazli and Brooks’ wedding at Willow and Stone Events was a true reflection of their love story. It was a beautiful blend of cultures, traditions, and cherished moments that will be remembered for a lifetime.
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