It all started with a cross country visit.  Ashraf came all the way from Florida just to meet Nermine.  A Seattle girl who was hopeful that this was going to be love.  Now after long distance dating, a move, a new job and a ton of wedding planning Ashraf and Nermine tied the knot.   
We ended up with rain and wind for their engagement session so Nermine was praying hard for sun and we got it.  An 82 degree September day!  Amazing and perfect!
Nermine and her girls got ready at Abigail Salon in Lynnwood. All of the girls have such gorgeous features and Nermine’s makeup was stunning!! Well she was stunning but seriously those eyes! 
 Ashraf and his friends were at a nearby hotel enjoying some downtime prior to the ceremony.   They chose to have a traditional Egyptian Coptic Christian ceremony and wait to see each other until Nermine walked down the aisle.  
With Ashraf’s family still in Egypt, Nermine’s family has certainly embraced him as their own.  As Nermine’s father gave her away, he embraced both Ashraf and Nermine.  
The ceremony was filled with many traditions and is absolutely beautiful to witness.  Part of it is in English, part in Coptic (an ancient Egyptian Christian language) and some of the Bible verses are almost sung.  It has been one of the highlights for me since I first started photographing weddings.  
After the ceremony they always have a receiving line to greet all of the guests.  Later they exited to their bridal party releasing a bunch of white balloons.  
We rushed to Heritage Hall in Kirkland to take in the sunshine and scenery for their portraits!  They are a fun group and have much energy.  

The reception was at the Bellevue Club so as the sun was setting we ended the night there. 
They entered the room dancing and super excited for a big party.  These Egyptians know how to dance!!  After toasts, cake and their first dance the party began.  With Nermine and Ashraf as the center of the circle most of the night and a moment where Ashraf was thrown in the air…they danced the night away to a mix of Egyptian top 40 and American hits.  I love that I can recognize some of their songs now (although I don’t know what they are singing).
Thanks to all the vendors involved and to my second shooter, Bob and videographer Reid Johnson of Best Made Videos for their patience as we maneuvered around each other all day. 
Congratulations Nermine & Ashraf…I feel blessed to know you and to have been part of this long awaited day.  I hope Hawaii was relaxing and exactly what you two needed!!