Rama and Samer’s Syrian Wedding at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago

If I had just a few words to describe this Syrian wedding celebration at The Ritz-Carlton I’d say “tradition with a twist.” A modern, color-driven twist, that is. Together with NEKY Design, Rama and Samer designed a festive Syrian reception of cultural beauty and modern style, and gorgeous pops of emerald green everywhere you look.

Rama was a bejeweled beauty in a Stephen Yearick gown. She is wearing a custom long sleeved top with her sleeveless sweetheart gown – in Muslim culture, only the bride’s husband, father, and brother may see her exposed neck, shoulders and arms.

The radiant couple entered with a special cultural dance – it involved the bride being hoisted high atop a chair, with the men rejoicing and dancing their way to the door of the “women’s room.” In Syrian wedding tradition, the men and women celebrate separately. With the men gone, the women take off their headscarves – and boy oh boy (pun intended!), do they ever dance the night away! Glittery dresses, bright lippies graced the room. Of course, the groom is allowed in the women’s room – and this is where Samer danced with his beautiful bride for the first time.

Despite a segregation amongst guests, there’s something about this beautiful Syrian affair that feels completely exotic, seamless and wildly romantic all at once. Scroll through and see all the pretty below!

xo, Melissa

Rama and Samer’s Wedding Guide ::

Venue, The Ritz-Carlton Chicago  //  Bride’s Attire, Stephen Yearick gown, Badgley Mischka shoes  //  Bride’s Hair, Shahd Refai  //  Bride’s Makeup, Maria Benvenuto  //  Wedding Consultant, Amanda Belton // Event Planner, NEKY Design  //  Florist, NEKY Design  //  Cake, Alliance Bakery  //  Caterer, The Ritz-Carlton Chicago  //  Music, Women’s: Shereen Jeeziya; Men’s: Ahmad Awad //  Videographer, Kay Hilai