This California Coast Wedding Fused Centuries-Old Customs With Modern Flourishes

Lamia and Abdullah — Photo:
Danforth Neal

Shortly after their first date in 2017—at a boba spot in San Jose, CA—Lamia started medical school, and Abdullah moved across the country for a career opportunity in Florida. It wasn’t ideal, but something had clicked on that first date. "Despite the geographical separation, our bond thrived as we navigated the challenges of a long-distance relationship," Lamia says. "Then, fate smiled upon us, bringing us back together in California."

In January 2023, Abdullah proposed in the customary way for their Bangladeshi and Pakistani cultures: with a traditional family-to-family proposal. But five months later, he surprised Lamia by getting down on one knee in the American tradition. "In May, Abdullah proposed with my dream ring against a perfect all-white picnic backdrop on the lush, grassy slopes of Golden Gate Park," in San Francisco, she shares. "From the moment we said 'yes' to forever, everything else fell into place with a sense of ease." And that includes wedding planning. "Whether it was selecting our favorite songs for the playlist or deciding on the color scheme for the decorations, our shared vision and mutual understanding made every decision a breeze."

They decided on Bel-Air Bay Club in California's Pacific Palisades as their venue, charmed by the serene beauty of its coastal setting, and had a particular vision in mind: "Our wedding was a harmonious blend of our Muslim South Asian heritage and American identities," Lamia explains. "From the intricate flower curtain framing the aisle to my full veil, each element was a nod to centuries-old customs of a traditional Nikkah ceremony, seamlessly interwoven with the familiar sights of a Western wedding."

The couple planned the big day themselves and enjoyed every moment of the process. "It was a collaborative journey filled with excitement and anticipation," Lamia says. "We found joy in knowing that no matter what challenges arose, we were in it together. With each decision made in sync and every task tackled hand in hand, the journey to our wedding day felt like a natural extension of our love story—a beautiful adventure filled with laughter, excitement, and endless possibilities."

And when the big day finally arrived, on December 22, 2023? "It exceeded all our expectations, filled with laughter, tears, and unforgettable moments shared with our loved ones."

A Symbolic Dress

Lamia had saved her wedding dress on Instagram almost two years before she needed it and kept returning to it. "[Among] the myriad of dresses from various designers that I had saved, this one stood out consistently," she says. "Every time I scrolled past it, I found myself drawn to its allure, no matter how many times I had seen it before." The label, Suffuse by Sana Yasir, is based in Pakistan, and Lamia FaceTimed for each appointment.

The dress also had symbolic meaning. "Abdullah and I both opted for traditional South Asian attire in Western ivory white hues, a departure from the customary red ensembles," the bride says. "This choice, symbolic of our fusion of cultures, mirrored the essence of our relationship—a union of two worlds, rooted in tradition yet imbued with modernity."

Elaborate Jewelry

The groom’s mother handpicked diamond jewelry for Lamia to wear with her dress.

An Epic Veil

"I deliberated between a simpler option and my grand, elaborate veil—but ultimately, I knew that only the grand veil could complement my look and the ambiance we had envisioned for our wedding day," Lamia says. "Its intricate details and majestic presence were the perfect finishing touch to complete my bridal ensemble."

A First Look With Bridesmaids

"In addition to the couple’s first look, I also had a first look with my bridesmaids, which was full of fun and emotion," Lamia says. "The sweetest moment happened when my bridesmaids chimed in, 'Can we give her a hug?' before rushing in for the most heartwarming group embrace."

A Colorful Bouquet

Lamia’s bouquet encompassed a rainbow of spring hues, a nod to the event’s overall decor and color scheme. "Our wedding theme exuded timeless elegance with a touch of softness as we embraced the enchanting allure of muted pastels," Lamia says. "From the delicate blush of soft pink to the tranquil hues of dusty blue and sage green, our color palette painted a picture of understated romance and sophistication."

The First Look

Lamia met Abdullah on a terrace overlooking the ocean for their first look, and "my heart skipped a beat,” she remembers. Abdullah felt the same way. "In that moment, a rush of memories flooded my mind—our shared laughter, our challenges, and our dreams for the future," he says. "I envisioned us growing old together, cherishing each moment as we navigate life’s journey side by side. I could not believe my luck, marrying the most beautiful woman in the world who also happens to be my best friend."

A Sweet Moment in Time

"Despite the anticipation leading up to this moment, nothing could have prepared me for the sheer emotion that washed over me," Lamia says. "In this instant, I felt a deep sense of gratitude and excitement knowing that we were about to embark on this journey together. It was a moment I’ll cherish forever."

A Regal Look

Like Lamia, Abdullah wore traditional attire in nontraditional white and cream hues. "The ivory turban—called kulla in Urdu and pagri in Bangla—added a regal touch to his look," Lamia says.

A Scenic Setting

Their ceremony was set on the lawn overlooking the ocean, with 150 chairs arranged in a semicircle around the altar.

A Springy Altar

"The florals represented a muted rainbow of pastels and evoked the essence of spring, a season synonymous with renewal, growth, and new beginnings," Lamia says. "Flower Allie, helmed by the talented florist Allison, exceeded all expectations. With just a few inspirational photos, she brought our exact vision to life, infusing the day with a magical spring-like atmosphere."

A Grand Entrance

"I was escorted to the head of the aisle by my bridesmaids, veiled, and beneath a floral canopy held by my wedding party," the bride describes. Once she reached the top of the aisle, her father met her to walk her down to Abdullah.

A Ceremony Rooted in Tradition

"The Islamic nikkah ceremony, also known as the Islamic marriage contract, is a sacred and formal agreement between a bride and groom that binds them together as husband and wife in accordance with Islamic law," Lamia explains. It includes various rites and traditions, beginning with a recitation from the Quran and a verbal consent to the marriage from both parties. "It is a solemn and joyous occasion celebrated with prayers, blessings, and the exchange of vows, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of the bride and groom as they embark on their journey together as partners in faith and love," Lamia says.

The Garland Exchange

There were funny moments, too. "During the nikkah ceremony, as tradition dictated, my brother and Abdullah's sister stepped forward to present flower garlands symbolizing the exchange of vows and the union of two families," the bride shares. "However, in a moment of lighthearted confusion, Abdullah inadvertently adorned himself with the garland meant for me, much to the amusement of the gathered crowd." Abdullah’s sister gently guided him to adorn his bride instead. "It was a moment of spontaneity and tenderness, a reminder that even amid the grandeur of our wedding day, the true beauty lay in the simple, unscripted moments shared between two souls in love."

Cocktail Hour

The couple’s guests headed to cocktail hour, where they sipped signature spicy margaritas and Manhattan’s and noshed on appetizers, then found their seats. "We also had a live digital artist on-site to make portraits of the guests during cocktail hour," the bride says. "With each stroke of her brush, the artist immortalized the joy and laughter of the day, ensuring that every guest left with a cherished memento of the love-filled occasion."

A Sunset Portrait Session

The newlyweds, meanwhile, escaped with their photographer to take pretty portraits as the sun went down.

A Stunning Reception

As guests moved into the reception room, it was like stepping into spring. "Decor featured a blush color palette of florals, with greenery hanging from the chandeliers," Lamia says.

Good Light

Lighting was key, and vendor Second Song—which also provided the DJ and special effects—handled it. "The lighting they provided created a warm and balanced atmosphere that perfectly complemented the floral arrangements, adding an ethereal touch to the entire venue," Lamia says. "Their expertise in placing uplights and adjusting colors at the right moments enhanced the mood and ambiance, creating a surreal experience that left us speechless."

Pretty Place Settings

Tabletop decor, rented from DishWish, was elegant and sophisticated: Scalloped china chargers, gold flatware, sparkling glassware, and custom menus adorned with a bow sat at each seat.

A Floral Cake

"Our wedding cake was a simple and elegant three-tired white cake with floral accents and a custom cake topper," Lamia says. Before she and Abdullah cut into it, their parents took the stage for speeches in what was one of the bride’s most memorable moments. "Their words were filled with love, wisdom, and overflowing emotion, touching the hearts of everyone present," she says. "As they spoke, we were moved to tears, feeling the depth of their love and the significance of the moment."

A Dramatic Dance

Cold sparklers erupted as the newlyweds hit the floor for their first dance to "La Vie en Rose."

A Choreographed Surprise

"Our DJ played a setlist consisting of Bollywood and Western hits, which kept the dance floor active all night," Lamia says. "We also choreographed a surprise Bollywood dance set with me and my bridesmaids."

The Perfect Ending

Overjoyed with emotion, the newlyweds made a streamer exit. There was so much to look back on, and fate to thank. "Leading up to the wedding, there was a week of relentless rain, and Abdullah’s voice fell silent to laryngitis," Lamia recalls. "However, the morning of the big day, the clouds parted and Abdullah’s voice returned. These small obstacles were a demonstration of the power of overcoming and embracing life’s unscripted moments."