The Special Couple: Haniya + Badi 

THE FIRST SIGHT 

We met just last year through living in the same area in Sydney and had only spoken a handful of times. Our friends had tried to get us to meet for a while, and it is in both of our natures that we didn't think being set up on a blind date was how it would happen! Only in October did our mutual friends plot to have us sit across from one another over dinner. Conversation flowed; needless to say, we were intrigued to see each other again.

THE PROPOSAL 

Soon into dating, we knew the other had the qualities and attributes of a loving life partner, so things moved quickly! We were engaged after three memorable months of travelling and getting to know one another in our home environments. Our proposal was simple and reflected our values deeply. On the very night, we visited our parents to ask for consent to get married, Badi whisked me away to his rooftop overlooking Sydney Harbour, played the song we first danced to, and asked me to marry him. It was intimate and so beautiful.

THE INSPIRATION & VENUE 

As is the guidance in the Baha'i Faith, we got married within 95 days of asking for consent for marriage. For this reason, we didn't think we could sweat the small stuff, such as themes, venues, etc. Initially, we thought a trip with our immediate family to Tuscany would be where we would have our intimate wedding. Still, when we found the perfect date at Redleaf, we couldn't miss the opportunity to celebrate closer to home! We wanted a relaxed outdoor feel that reflected the calmness of our personalities. We knew we didn't want to be the centre of attention but wanted to feel at one with our guests, gathering under fairy lights on long tables with good food!

THE LOOK & SAYING "YES" TO THE DRESS 

I have always loved Galia Lahav's designs in their elegance and subtle glamour. As far as design goes, I knew I wanted a figure-hugging dress with sleeves, but that's as far as my brief went. The dress would have to speak to me in its uniqueness, and it did just that.

The dress I found was the first one I picked out, and my Eternal Bridal stylist - in all her wisdom - made me try it on last out of a selection of 5 or 6 wedding dresses. My consultant was patient and helped me see beyond the dress, taking into my shape and adding a veil, which made it come to life. I fell in love with it the longer I wore it. The backless design with the free-flowing pearls had me captivated. The second-best love story of my life!

THE HIGHLIGHT 

There was a moment when the sun was setting, and the fairy lights were on. Badi and I were overlooking all our guests mingling, smiling and laughing. We held each other, commenting on how, in such a short span of time, our love had born so much fruit. It's a moment I will never forget.

HANIYA'S WEDDING ADVICE 

Planning a wedding can be stressful, especially when time is pressing and costs begin to rise, but consulting with your partner in a spirit of unity makes you remember that the destination is not half as important as the journey of doing things as a team. If allowed to turn back time, I would say, 'Do it all again in the exact same way'. 

Haniya wore Rhiannon wedding dress from Galia Lahav Haute Couture. See more gowns from Galia Lahav Haute Couture Collection here. 

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