A joyful union

"Arshad and I met eight years ago through mutual friends. Back then everyone kept in touch with MSN messenger and we would have long chats over the internet from opposite sides of the country. We were just friends until a couple of years ago when Arshad proposed in Hyde Park on a beautiful summer’s evening.



As Muslims we had two parts to our wedding; the Nikah and Walima. I decided on Melville Castle in Edinburgh for the Nikah venue. It is a spellbinding place, and a dream come true as I’ve always dreamed of having a castle for my Big Day! The castle does halal food, as well enough space for my 200 guests - a rare find for a Scottish castle.

We had a main stage in the marquee with luxurious draped silks, pearls and a chandelier. I also sourced furniture for the stage that had a very vintage feel to it, to tie in with the overall concept. 

I chose a palette of cream, gold, purple and emerald green with a little Lindsay clan tartan thrown in. My grandma is Scottish so it was important to celebrate both Pakistani and Scottish heritages.



I included hints of Lindsay tartan to my bouquet and wedding cake, designed by Liggy’s Cakes in Edinburgh. They were fantastic and designed the most amazing cake using my wedding dress as inspiration.

The Walima was at Riverbank Park Plaza in London. It faces the Houses of Parliament and the reception hall had a massive window overlooking the Thames. We chose peach, cream and blue for the Walima to match our outfits.



I found our photographer Didar Virdi on Facebook. One look at his portfolio assured me that he was the right man to capture our magical moments. Didar specialises in Fine Art Photography and his work is so different to other photographers. He took the time to get to know us as a couple and shared our excitement over the wedding venues.

We agreed on a package for the Nikah and Walima and were happy to allow Didar to direct the photography. His imagination and concepts were exceptional and we truly felt like royalty. The images I have seen so far surpass my expectations.

• www.DidarVirdi.com