Henna and Corey's three-day Pakistani-American wedding was a breathtaking fusion of culture, tradition, and romance. From a heartfelt lakefront proposal to vibrant ceremonies filled with henna, dances, and stunning attire, their celebration was a true reflection of love and unity. Explore their beautifully curated wedding, captured in vivid detail!
Henna and Corey were introduced through friends in 2014, and casual conversation quickly became a lifelong connection. While years of long distance were not always easy, it was like no time had passed every time they were together, and they knew the relationship was true and lasting.
In 2021, Corey got down on one knee after a cozy dinner and quiet walk by the Milwaukee lakefront and asked for Henna's hand. The simple, serene proposal was intimate and perfect for the couple, with Henna describing the feeling of saying "yes" like coming home.
When beginning the wedding planning process, the couple knew they wanted to create a blooming fusion of two cultures with their three-day Pakistani-American wedding. They prioritized vendors who understood their vision, were communicative and organized, and emphasized authenticity and care.
The first day of their wedding included a small Civil Ceremony + and Mehndi Civil Ceremony in the presence of immediate family and a few extended family members. During the Mehndi event, Henna got her mehndi (henna) done. In Pakistani tradition, henna is a symbol of love, luck, and blessings for marriage, with darker henna representing deeper love between a couple.
Day two involved the Pithi ceremony, a tradition in which family and friends applied a paste of turmeric, chickpea flour, and rosewater to the bride and groom before showering them with flowers, followed by a small sweet. The ceremony is meant to give the couple a natural glow, provide good fortune, and ward off negative energy. Guests could also get their own mehndi (henna) designs before dinner and dancing. During the festivities, Henna and Corey included Dandiya Raas, a traditional folk dance with colorful sticks.
The third day of the wedding was the Nikkah (Wedding) Ceremony and Reception, both hosted at the Ingleside Hotel. For Muslims, the Nikkah is a formal wedding ceremony where the bride and groom accept each other as life partners in the presence of family and friends. Henna wrote, "For Ismaili Muslims, it's a sacred moment that represents love, unity, and commitment, as the couple recites vows and signs the Nikkah contract, like a marriage certificate, making their union official. It's an intimate, spiritual ceremony that connects us to our faith and community, surrounded by the blessings and prayers of our loved ones.
During this ceremony, the couple wore the first of their two outfits, coordinating in shades of cream and gold with intricate stitching. Their bridal party also wore a first look with soft blush pinks, cream, and gold.
There were many memorable moments at the reception, which included choreographed dances, photo booths, and speeches. Both sides of the family came together to blend their cultures, with DJ Mixu playing the couple's favorite songs and keeping the dance floor full all night. Something Borrowed Blooms arranged bold, colorful flowers to fill nearly every space, with the stage arranged with statement pieces, cozy furniture, and candles.
The bride and her bridesmaids wore their second gowns, each personalized, vibrant, and reflecting their Pakistani heritage. They also wore statement necklaces, headpieces, earrings, and bracelets, with Henna choosing green stones for a joyful contrast to her otherwise pink and gold ensemble.
When reflecting on their vendor team, Henna and Corey agree, "Each of these vendors added something unique to our day, and working with them felt like a true partnership. They were all so invested in making our wedding personal and true to us, and we couldn't have asked for a better team."
Caroline Cavalcante photographed the event, capturing the vibrant, natural aesthetic and framing moments that were both energetic and intimate. Murphy Events Co. kept everything on schedule and worked with the venue staff and vendors to make the 3-day celebration run smoothly and stress-free. Dream Decor by Kiran further brought their vision to life by uniquely transforming the venue for each evening and ensuring everything felt special and authentic.
Henna and Corey's wedding was a stunning celebration of love, culture, and family. With a dream team of vendors bringing their vision to life, their wedding was not just an event but an unforgettable experience.
