What was the thing you were most excited about?

Marrying Nour, finally !

Most nervous? 

Truthfully, I was nervous to be the center of attention!

What was the most Gohar World part of the wedding?

Definitely the balancing act of hosting. Planning well ahead of time so that when it was time to be there, I was present. And still allowing for spontaneity without being too rigid with how the plan unfolded.

What was your favorite meal of the weekend?

Our wedding dinner at Suna’nın Yeri i!

How did Gohar World make its way into the day?

My nephew Paz served as ring bearer and wore the Demi Baguette Bag down the aisle. And we left Gohar World personalized lace envelope welcome notes & treats for everyone in their rooms. 

What did you end up not caring about (that you thought you would)? 

Many people advised me to hire a photographer, but I didn’t want to take any posed portraits — so Milos, my younger sister Janna’s boyfriend, brought 6 disposable film cameras for everyone to use throughout the evening. I was so happy to develop the film and have memories of the night without the photos feeling staged. 

What did you want your guests to feel?

Our wedding party was about 30 people, and it was challenging to plan 3 days for people ranging from ages 3-83. We wanted everyone to feel comfortable and included in any part of our plans. Istanbul was the perfect setting.

What was your favorite wedding gift? 

My dad’s best friend Mr. Hara came to Istanbul from Yokohama and performed a song for us at the reception in Japanese & Arabic. It was followed by a traditional Geisha performance by Ms. Misaki Takei, who he’d brought as his +1. Definitely the highlight of the night and an iconic moment!

Advice for brides?

Don’t feel pressure to do it one way. The more personal, the better. And call on your friends for help! My good friend and brilliant designer Michael Chalitta made my dress and my friend Thistle Brown (Stylist & Photographer) helped me get ready. 

For the invites, I shared some photos I’d taken of the harem quarters at Topkapi Palace with Allyson Bainbridge Riccardi, who hand-painted personalized cards for each guest. Each invite was placed inside the Gohar World Lace Envelope, embroidered in our studio by Amy (Gohar World's Embroidery Specialist) with our initials.