This Dazzling Detroit Ceremony is Full of Culture: The Real Wedding of Sahar Omrani and Omar Eid

Photos ByMike Staff Productions

Written By

Chrysa Keenon

Date

April 15, 2020

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Omar and Sahar ran in similar circles during their childhood, but hit it off when they reconnected to one another when they both were living in New York City. After a little more than three years of dating, they knew it was time to take the next step. Omar popped the question when the couple was exploring the Cranbrook Art Museum in Michigan, and Sahar said an enthusiastic 'yes'!

We love the classic, off-the-shoulder elegance of Sahar’s dress. She gushes, “I had tried on way too many dresses from too many stores and couldn’t make up my mind, until I found this one. It was both unique, whimsical and fit my personality. Plus, I knew I would be comfortable in it.”

As the couple began to look for vendors, they realized that their wedding would be a large one, so they needed all hands on deck. “I have always been inspired by old Hollywood glamour and loved lifestyle brands like Shinola,” Sahar says. “Most importantly, I had all my friends from all over the world present. I wanted to respect the traditions of my family and my partner’s family.”

What we love

This couple tied in so much of their family’s culture into their big day. Sahar explains, “The ceremony included a mini-Persian ceremony in front of a traditional Persian display called the Sofreh. The Sofreh was designed by a dear family friend. The ceremony was recited by my father who translated all the poetry into English (even making sure the poems still rhymed!). Friends and family members ground sugar over our heads to add sweetness to our lives. Omar’s family also incorporated some Arabic tradition including his father reading a poem by famed poet Khalil Gibran and having a traditional Arabic entrance called the Zefe. There was also a Persian dancer and a traditional Persian knife dance performed by my sister handing the knife to the couple before they cut the cake.”

Advice from the couple

Sahar urges brides to let their planners handle little details so they can put more attention into the big picture of their day. “I let my wedding planner really run with a lot of the concepts after I gave her a feel for what I liked,” she notes. “We picked a few big things to focus on (the music, photographer, outfits and menu) and let the pros do the rest. I don’t even remember what color my napkins were.”