Neagheen & Zach

The Story

I will never forget the first consultation I had with Neagheen. She explained to me very simply: “We want to have a Persian/Jewish wedding in Antigua Guatemala.” I was so excited about the blending of cultures and the idea to host their wedding in the ruins that I said yes before even fully understanding what I was getting myself into.

A few months later when we met in person at Pensativo House with Saguzo Eventos to go over the planning I began to realize just how beautiful this wedding would be. Meeting Zach and Mahin (Neagheen’s mother) was a complete joy. We hit it off right away as they explained to me the logistics of blending two distinct traditions in the same wedding. It all sounded so wonderful that I could not wait to photograph a Persian Wedding in Antigua Guatemala.

*Neagheen at Pensativo Hotel in Antigua Guatemala.*

THE WEDDING

*Neagheen & Zach crossing the street on the way to Santa Clara.*

The day before the wedding Neagheen & Zach hosted a welcome event with their fiends and family at Pensativo House in Antigua Guatemala. The night was filled with laughter, dancing, and of course beautiful photos. Neagheen had met Zach in a dance class and they wanted to share their love of salsa and bachata with the rest of their wedding party, so they hired Martin to teach the wedding party the basic moves of the two dance styles. It was so much fun to photograph, and I imagine it was even more enjoyable to participate!

On the day of the wedding we met back at the hotel for the photos of preparations. While Zach toasted with some of his closest friends, Neagheen slipped into her gorgeous wedding dress with the help of her mother and sister. The three women were stunning in their dresses and I took advantage of the extra time we had to photograph them around the hotel before the official first look.

The first look in and of itself was intimate and heartfelt. The photos from that moment are some of my favorite from the wedding for their authenticity and emotion. Afterwards, we took non-traditional photos with the bridesmaids and groomsmen at the hotel. When we had wrapped up the light was perfect for a stroll in Antigua and I went with the entire bridal party around some of my favorite streets in Antigua to take photos. The results were wonderful and everyone had a great time.

The ceremony took place in Santa Clara, one of the most beautiful ruins in Antigua. Neagheen and Zach had a traditional Persian ceremony with some Jewish traditions mixed in. The altar, decorated by Addy Florales, was stunning amidst the ruins. I couldn’t have imagined a more touching ceremony. Everyone laughed and cried through the vows, and once Neagheen & Zach had exchanged rings and sealed it all with a kiss, it was time for portraits in the garden. After a brief rest, the dinner and party ensued. And what an incredible celebration it was.