FAQs
Question
What's a Nikah Ceremony?
Answer
Essentially, it's an Islamic wedding ceremony, and it is relatively short and simple. The nikah usually takes place in a mosque but can happen anywhere like at a hotel ballroom or in a home. In addition to the bride and groom, the key people in the nikah are the parents of the couple, two witnesses from both sides, and the Imam, or spiritual leader who officiates the wedding. The Imam asks the couple to recite vows. Both the bride and groom must say “I accept” three times. Accepting the terms of the marriage three times is necessary as it makes absolutely sure that both parties agree to the commitment of marriage. A religious marriage contract is then read aloud by the Imam and signed by both the bride and groom. A short prayer from the Quran called Surah Al-Fatihah is then recited by the Imam while guests observe quietly. At the end of the ceremony, the Imam will ask the guests to bring their hands together to pray for the couple. Once the vows are said, and the marriage contract is signed, sweets are distributed to all to celebrate the couple's union. If you'd like to learn more, we recommend this article for a quick primer: https://www.brides.com/nikkah-ceremony-5079931
Question
What can I expect if I've never been to one of these things?
Answer
Think of this as a condensed proposal, engagement party, and wedding ceremony in one! For our guests, it's an opportunity to meet new friends and family, say hello to old ones, witness us say our vows before our loved ones, and then celebrate with delicious Afghan food and dancing in a replica of a Kyoto style Tea Merchant's shop (that was custom built in Japan!)
Question
Will there be a wedding reception or is this it?
Answer
We're planning to have a bigger wedding reception in the near future inshallah. Stay tuned. :)
Question
Is there a dress code?
Answer
Please come dressed in your Sunday best! We recommend garden party attire. For women, anything from cocktail dresses, LBDs, and dressy jumpsuits to sundresses and floral prints. For men, we recommend suits in lighter hues or dark jackets and slacks. If any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to us directly.
Question
When should I RSVP by?
Answer
We're asking our friends and family to please let us know by Sunday, June 4, if possible.
Question
Can I bring a date?
Answer
Unfortunately, we have a strict guest limit. If any questions or accommodation requests, please reach out to us directly.
Question
Are kids welcome?
Answer
Because this event will be taking place in a garden, we ask that you please leave the little ones at home. Please reach out directly to us with any questions or accommodation requests.
Question
What time should I arrive at the ceremony?
Answer
The ceremony begins at 6 p.m. We invite our guests to join us for pre-ceremony mocktails and take the opportunity to meet new friends. The Nikah ceremony will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m.
Question
I have a food allergy, can I make a special request?
Answer
We will try our best to accommodate all diets. If any questions, don't hesitate to reach out directly.
Question
Will there be an open bar?
Answer
For religious reasons, this will be a dry event.
Question
Is there parking for the ceremony?
Answer
Absolutely! There is a small parking lot at the gardens.
Question
Are there any other events that I should know about around the Nikah Ceremony?
Answer
Yes! We are planning events the week prior to and after the ceremony and will reach out once we have those details ironed out.