We wanted our wedding to reflect both of our cultures—Iranian and American.
Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love…
Ashley is a UX designer with a background in fashion, and Hamed is a professor with a Ph.D. in AI and a lifelong musician. We both love traveling, food, and music—and we connected over all three!
How/where/when did you meet – and what were your first impressions?
We met on Tinder in 2018. Our first date over tea turned into hours of conversation about art, music, and technology.
Tell us about the vision you had for the mood and style of your wedding. (theme, key styling elements, florals, colour palettes etc.).
We wanted our wedding to reflect both of our cultures—Iranian and American. Our styling was vintage-inspired, with colors drawn from European Renaissance art, fall tones, and Persian symbols like pomegranates and roses. A centerpiece of the ceremony was the “Sofreh Aghd,” a Persian wedding spread with symbolic items like mirrors, candles, and sugar cones representing love, light, and sweetness. We also exchanged personal vows in the American tradition and incorporated a first dance that blended Salsa, Tango, Bachata, and Persian dance—truly a celebration of our shared lives.
What styling and visual elements worked best for you? (could be things, the florals, particular hire products or your marquee, etc., something the stylist created or simply just the scenic beauty of your location or the existing design of your venue).
The natural beauty of our home’s courtyard and garden was enhanced by vintage brass vases, florals, and taper candles. These elements complemented the historic character of the space and created an intimate yet elegant atmosphere.
What did you enjoy most about the planning process, and do you have any tips for couples starting their wedding planning journey?
One of our top priorities was ensuring Hamed’s parents—who couldn’t attend—could still participate. We invested in a strong AV setup for a live stream. We also focused on creating a meaningful experience, full of personalized touches. One of the highlights was our choreographed entrance dance, which brought huge smiles to everyone’s faces. Our advice: make it personal, and prioritize what truly matters to you.
Tell us about your vendors. Were there any standout suppliers you would like to make special mention of?
Sonya Le Photography (@sonyalephoto) captured our day with an editorial flair, and the Super 8 film added the vintage mood we envisioned. Sweet T Florals (@sweettflowersnc) brought our floral dreams to life.
Tell us about your main outfits, what was unique, and is there a story?
We were going for a vintage European look with a nod to the Great Gatsby era. The outfits, accessories, and even our dance choices reflected that timeless, romantic theme.
Tell us about your wedding and engagement rings.
Ashley’s engagement ring features a sapphire that matches her eyes, chosen by Hamed for its vintage charm. Ashley had Hamed’s ring custom-made in Tehran, designed with Persian architectural inspiration and a Farsi inscription inside.
What were one or two elements that were most important to you both that you were happy to spend a little more on? (food, photography, florals, the venue, your outfits?).
Photography, food, and drinks were top priorities. We wanted the memories captured in a style that felt authentic and artistic, and we wanted our guests to have an unforgettable time.
Was there a favourite moment (or two) that you will treasure always?
The first look was deeply emotional and marked a full-circle moment in our journey. The ceremony itself felt magical—sunlight filtered through the trees as we exchanged vows, and guests tossed rose petals as we exited. The entire day felt dreamy and filled with love.
BRIDE Ashley, @ashley_tabkhi LOCATION Private residence, home of the couple PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER Sonya Le Photography, @sonyalephoto STYLIST the bride-Ashley, @ashley_tabkhi PLANNER Lucky Day, @luckydayeventsco FLORIST Sweet T Flowers, @sweettflowersnc CELEBRANT Friend – Mona ENTERTAINMENT DJ Shayan, @deejay.shayan HIRE Curated Events, @curatedeventscharlotte CATERING Roots Catering, @roots_catering CAKE Renaissance Patisserie, @renaissancepatisserie STATIONERY Minted, @minted BRIDE’S WEDDING & ENGAGEMENT RINGS Melanie Casey, @melaniecaseyjewelry GROOM’S WEDDING RING custom made in Tehran, Iran OTHER SIGNIFICANT JEWELLERY earrings- Etsy, @etsy; antique gold ring-family heirloom from Taiwan BRIDE’S MAIN OUTFIT Reformation, @reformation BRIDE’S SHOES Tony Bianco, @tonybianco BRIDE’S ACCESSORIES handbag- Self Portrait, @mrselfportrait; scarf- Cornelia James, @cornelia_james; Mantilla veil- Madame Tulle, @madametulle HAIR AND MAKEUP Jessica Knoll Fernandez, @whosthefairest.jessica BRIDE & GROOM’S FRAGRANCE Chanel, @chanelofficial BRIDE’S RECEPTION SHOES Studded Salsa Heels by Yami Diamond, @yamidanceshoes BRIDE’S RECEPTION ACCESSORIES Tulle gloves by Kerry Parker, @kerryparkerofficial; Silk bridal bow from Etsy, @etsy GROOM’S MAIN OUTFIT The Black Tux, @theblacktux GIFT REGISTRY The knot, @theknot
