Inside this CLASSIC Gold AND White
Persian Fusion Wedding at The Willard in DC
Maryam + Reed
Ambre Nuit
BY ANNA SCHMIDT PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ANNA SCHMIDT PHOTOGRAPHY
Ambre Nuit
PHOTOGRAPHY & FLATLAY DESIGN / Ambre Nuit by Anna Schmidt Photography
PLANNING, SOFREH, & EVENT DESIGN / Exclusively Events by PG - Poopak Golesorkhi VENUE & CATERING / Willard InterContinental DC - Michael Deltette and team FLORALS / Ultimate Floral Designs MAKEUP & BROW / Muse Studios - Azin Farshadfar HAIR / Devon Baltimore Up Do Specialist GOWN / Reem Acra Flock of Angels Prophet Collection GOWN STORE / Carine's Bridal BRIDAL SHOES / Acquazurra Love Me Pumps PRE-WEDDING PORTRAIT SHOES / Christian Louboutin So Kate Pumps CUSTOM TUXEDO AND SUIT / Tom James Clothing CINEMATOGRAPHY / Paperboys ENTERTAINMENT / DJTaba and Violinist Celeste Vee PHOTO TEAM / Oscar Navarre, Danielle Lawrance, Gerardo Santos
Glamorous. Refined. Timeless.
Imagine a wedding that epitomizes luxurious multicultural elegance—a Persian fusion celebration reimagined with modern flair. The venue is an opulent ballroom where classic Persian motifs meet contemporary design. An ornate, crystal-lined Sofreh Aghd table, adorned with intricate calligraphy and traditional symbols, is juxtaposed against sleek, modern décor and the warm glow of ambient candlelight. Guests are greeted by lush floral arrangements in crisp white tones, artfully designed to evoke both the timeless beauty of Persian gardens and the clean lines of modern artistry. The music blends classic Persian melodies with contemporary rhythms, setting a sophisticated yet lively tone for the evening. Together, these elements create an unforgettable celebration where history and modernity intertwine, symbolizing unity, love, and the beauty of a multicultural journey.
about the Wedding
Set against Washington, DC’s urban-political backdrop, this glamorous black-tie celebration began with an intimate first look on the hotel’s majestic staircase, followed by bridal portraits that showcased Maryam’s breathtaking Reem Acra Flock of Angels gown and playful, crystal encrusted heels.
The couple’s multicultural ceremony featured a traditional Sofreh Aghd, an elaborate Persian wedding table spread adorned with symbolic elements that honor and bless the couple’s union. With shimmering white crystals, soft candlelight, and delicate gold and silver detailing, their uniquely designed sofreh by Exclusively Events was as exquisite as it was deeply meaningful. At the head of the table, the Ayeeneh (mirror) stood prominently, allowing Maryam and Reed to
Maryam and Reed celebrated their love in Washington, DC, at the prestigious Willard InterContinental Hotel, just steps from the White House and Capitol. Their timeless gold and white Persian fusion wedding —masterfully coordinated and designed by Poopak Patrice Golesorkhi — was a stunning blend of iconic beauty, modern sophistication, and deeply meaningful Iranian traditions woven throughout the day, from the Aghd (ceremony) to the Jashn e aroosi (grand reception).
gaze into their reflection — symbolizing their shared future. To celebrate the sweetness of their union, they fed each other asal (honey), while married family members showered them with sugar through the Torreh Ghand (cloth), bestowing blessings of sweetness upon their marriage. Traditional sofreh elements, including the Qur’an, Tokhmeh Morgh (decorative eggs), and Soozan Nakh (needle and thread), were carefully placed, with a unique and heartfelt tribute to Maryam’s late father adding a deeply personal touch.
After the ceremony, the newlyweds hosted an al fresco cocktail hour, where guests enjoyed signature cocktails and contemporary canapés crafted by The Willard’s culinary team, featuring locally sourced and environmentally sustainable ingredients.
The night concluded in true celebratory fashion — an unforgettable reception brimming with laughter and joy. The couple’s grand entrance set the tone for an evening of revelry, complete with the Persian knife dance (Ragsheh Chagoo) and a beautifully orchestrated cake cutting.
Scroll to see images from this magnificent event.
“We couldn't be happier! Anna and her team captured every moment of our special day beautifully, and I am so grateful for the incredible memories they provided!"
Anna was professional, friendly, and easy to work with. I would highly recommend Anna and her team to anyone looking for a talented and reliable wedding photographer!
-maryam, bride
IF THIS SOUNDS LIKE YOUR KIND OF CELEBRATION...
Your story deserves
to be remembered.
Not just how it looked. How it felt.
The best photographs don't happen because every detail is perfect.
They happen because you're fully present—laughing with your closest friends, hugging your grandparents, wiping away happy tears during your vows, and forgetting there's even a camera nearby.
If you care more about being present than performing for the camera, I think we'll get along beautifully.
Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a multi-day wedding weekend, my goal is to create photographs that bring you back to those moments for years to come—images that feel honest, enduring, and unmistakably yours.
Because beautiful photographs matter. But remembering how it all felt matters even more.