This was certainly one of the “danciest” (is that even a word lol?) weddings we’ve worked on and it was steeped in rich, international traditions. Janan and her family are from Palestine and Paul and his family are from Ireland. Exciting also, was the fact that we had lots of family and guests visiting the USA for the first time – so when we say this was fun, this was REALLY FUN! It was a thrill witnessing these two rich cultures combine to create such a beautiful, meaningful and festive wedding!
The candlelight ceremony was held at the gorgeous St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Church in Atlanta and soft, harp music filled the sanctuary. Janan wore a stunning, fitted, spaghetti-strapped all lace gown that was absolute perfection! Paul looked very dapper in his blue suit. Once the ceremony ended, guests were treated to a surprise sweet – King Of Pops – had their umbrella and cart set up outside and handed out gourmet popsicles as guests boarded the motor coaches to head to the reception venue.
Next up, this party crew headed to The Piedmont Room which is nestled on the edge of Atlanta’s Piedmont Park for a celebration that was certainly lively enough to stand up to the big Atlanta Skyline in the background! This was truly a GRAND wedding!
Lots of funny and sentimental toasts and stories were heard from both sides of the wedding families. Paul’s groomsmen were his former Rugby teammates from Ireland and to say they kept the room entertained with their dancing is putting it rather mildly. Think “Lord Of The Dance “! These guys could teach Michael Flatly a thing or two for sure! They all wore funny socks and I overheard a guest saying, “this wedding is a good knees up”. “Knees up” means a really good time in Ireland. Then there was belly dancing from Janan’s heritage which all the ladies took part in…and then the fellas (of course!). The band, “Emerald Empire” was the perfect match for this celebrating crowd. Pretty sure Emerald Empire was having as much fun as our guests at this one.
It was an absolute pleasure to get to work with Janan and Paul on their plans and a honor to get to be a part of their most important day. We wish them all the best for a happy and bright future together. Cheers you two!
Soiree South & Co. – wedding planner
St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Church – ceremony site
The Piedmont Room – reception venue
Emerald Empire Band – reception band
Southern Harp – ceremony music
Catherine Cansler Photography – photography
The Trolley Guy – transportation
Cakes By Anna – wedding cake
French Market Flowers – florals and decor
King of Pops – treats
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