Tag: Wedding

Influencer Zein Qutami Marries Celio Saab in a Wedding Designed by Elie Saab

Some weddings are beautiful, others make history, and this one could be both.  Fez– When Palestinian-Jordanian lifestyle creator Zein Qutami married Celio Saab, son of legendary Lebanese designer Elie Saab, in the heart of Lebanon, it wasn’t just a celebration of love.  It was a masterclass in cultural pride, couture artistry, and emotional storytelling. A fairytale, yes, but written with real names, real heritage, and real high fashion. Zein, born and raised in Abu Dhabi, has long been known for her elegant digital presence.  A graceful blend of tradition and modernity, she’s built a loyal audience who admire her for more than just curated content, they see her as someone who represents a refined Arab identity with quiet strength.  Her wedding to Celio, who she met in Dubai back in June 2021, felt like a natural continuation of the life she shares online: deeply rooted, beautifully intentional, and full of heart. The couple got engaged in June 2024, in a romantic moment that featured a custom-designed ring by Celio himself.  That detail alone set the tone for what would follow: a celebration marked by elegance, artistry, and personal meaning at every turn. A wedding that spanned days and dimensions The festivities kicked off on July 17 with a pre-wedding party that was more than just a warm-up.  Set against the scenic mountains of Lebanon, it was an elegant affair complete with a dramatic 10-tier cake, because subtlety isn’t the goal when you’re marrying into Lebanese fashion royalty.  The gathering offered a dreamy preview of what was to come: a union that wouldn’t just join two people, but two worlds. On July 19, the official ceremony took place at the historic Bkerki Church, one of Lebanon’s most iconic religious landmarks.  The reception, held after the church wedding, brought together more than 1,000 guests, including high-profile names like Nancy Ajram, Hande Ercel, and Balqees Fathi.  It wasn’t just a who’s who of Arab glamour, it was a gathering of creative minds, family, and legacy. Naturally, the fashion world held its breath for what Zein would wear, and Elie Saab delivered. For the ceremony, Zein wore a regal, long-sleeved gown that was fitted through the bodice and trailed into a cathedral-length train.  Silver embroidery shimmered across the dress, mirrored in a matching veil and a delicately detailed headpiece. Every stitch felt ceremonial, like it was sewn not just into fabric but into memory. Maison Elie Saab later shared a behind-the-scenes video of the making of the gown.  “Five sketches, three prototypes, and 780 hours later,” the caption read, capturing both the scale of the project and the intimacy of its process. This wasn’t just a dress; it was a story told in thread. Then came the reception look, a complete transformation. Zein slipped into a sleeveless, mermaid-style gown in a soft blush “Rose Sable” tone, designed to shimmer in candlelight.  The plunging neckline, the 4.5-meter overskirt, the embroidery with diamond-shaped stones, it was unapologetically glamorous, but still very her. In a rare interview according to Khaleej Times , Zein described the second gown as “something radiant and unapologetically glamorous.”  Her words were simple, but the message was clear: this was about stepping into a space where boldness and grace could exist at once. And that’s exactly what she did, on a global stage, in a region where beauty, tradition, and personal expression often have to fight for space. Zein Qutami got married and made a statement. Read also: Tangier to Host Fourth Edition of International Summer Festival at the End of July 

Morocco to Host a Possible Spice Girls Reunion at Mel B’s Second Wedding

Mel B’s second wedding ceremony in Morocco may lay the ground for a long-awaited Spice Girl reunion. Rabat – After a first ceremony held in London, Mel B, member of the iconic British pop group “Spice Girls”, and celebrity hairstylist Rory McPhee, will celebrate the second part of her wedding in Morocco, according to the MailOnline. Their relationship has been widely covered in the media, with the couple announcing their engagement in 2022. While many celebrities attended the official ceremony, most Spice Girls members were absent, with only Emma Bunton present, accompanied by her husband Jade Jones and son, Beau. Victoria Beckham and Mel C. congratulated their former band member online, but Geri Halliwell remained tight-lipped, fueling ongoing rumors of a rift between her and Mel B. With a second ceremony in Morocco, which the bride herself has described as “more informal, sexy and beautiful”, the setting offers a relaxed atmosphere far from the media frenzy, potentially providing the perfect opportunity for the band members to reconcile and heal old wounds. The group is no stranger to Morocco, as most of them reunited there for David Beckham’s 40th birthday. While Mel B was absent from the 2015 reunion, she will potentially be the one to bring them back together this time.

Jeff Bezos’ Lavish Venice Wedding Sparks Protests

Fez – When the richest man on Earth decides to get married (again), it’s never going to be subtle.  But Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez’s ultra-exclusive wedding in Venice has done more than make headlines; it stirred up serious controversy. Locals and environmental groups like Greenpeace have rallied under the banner “No Space for Bezos,” protesting what they call an outrageous display of wealth in a city already buckling under the weight of over-tourism.  Venice, fragile and flooded with tourists even on a slow day, didn’t exactly roll out the welcome gondola. Residents are fed up with disruptions to daily life and the ever-growing strain on local infrastructure, so throwing a billionaire blowout in the middle of it all hasn’t gone unnoticed. Still, the wedding guest list reads like a Met Gala with rocket fuel. About 200 high-profile guests are rumored to have flown in, including Oprah Winfrey, Mick Jagger, and Katy Perry, who, fun fact, went to space with Sanchez on a Blue Origin flight this past April. Because of course she did. From the business world to the entertainment elite, the star power didn’t stop there. Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian reportedly made the cut, as did actress Eva Longoria, all of whom were in Paris last month for Sanchez’s very glam bachelorette weekend.  It’s giving “let’s take a break from running empires and play European wedding roulette,” and honestly, the vibe checks out. This isn’t the first wedding for either Bezos or Sánchez. Bezos divorced philanthropist and novelist MacKenzie Scott back in 2019 after 25 years of marriage and four children.  The split was one of the most public and high-stakes in recent memory, not least because it reshuffled the global billionaire rankings overnight. Sanchez, for her part, was married for 14 years to Hollywood power agent Patrick Whitesell.  They divorced in 2019 and share two children. She also has a son, model Nikko Gonzalez, from a previous relationship with former NFL star Tony Gonzalez.  So, yes, this is a blended family with serious red carpet and end zone credentials. Whether you’re here for the celebrity drama, the environmental backlash, or just trying to wrap your head around why billionaires think Venice is a good place for a mega-party.  This wedding is definitely a full-on spectacle, and one that’s raising some real questions about wealth, space travel, and who gets to claim the world’s most beautiful cities for their “I do’s.” Read also: Shada Hassoun, Nordo Set the Nahda Stage on Fire at Mawazine 2025

Artisanal Craftsmanship Bridges Morocco’s Past and Future at Rabat Traditional Wedding Festival

This festival, which continues until March 29, has become a must-attend event, providing artisans with a platform to exchange expertise, showcase their work, and refine their artistic techniques.   Fez– In Rabat, Morocco’s unique and iconic bridal fashion is holding the spotlight at the 17th edition of Moroccan Traditional Wedding festival, which kicked off on March 22 and will run until March 29.    Filled with displays of caftans and ceremonial attire, the event is putting on display not just the splendor of Moroccan nuptials but also the creativity of the nation’s artisans.   The dazzling affair is the product of a joint collaboration between the Chamber of Handicrafts of the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region and its counterpart from Fez-Meknes, alongside the regional directorate in the same sector.  Beyond the aesthetics, the event serves a practical purpose: boosting the visibility of artisanal products that see high demand during Ramadan.  It gives visitors a firsthand look at the meticulous work of artisans specializing in traditional wedding crafts, from intricately embroidered caftans to handcrafted accessories and decor.   Moroccan artisans: guardians of national heritage Speaking at the event, Lahcen Essaadi, Secretary of State for Handicrafts and the Social Economy, applauded Morocco’s artisans, calling them the “guardians of national heritage.”  He talked about how Moroccan weddings, unique on a global scale, serve as a living testament to the country’s cultural identity, reflected in its traditional attire, especially the timeless caftan and djellaba.   Essaadi said the event plays a crucial role in preserving traditional crafts, citing the “Treasures of Moroccan Handicrafts” training program, which ensures the transfer of ancestral skills to new generations under the mentorship of master artisans.   Abderrahim Zemzami, President of the Chamber of Handicrafts of Rabat-Sale-Kenitra, also spoke at the event about the importance of continued support for traditional industries.  He described craftsmanship as a pillar of national identity, a bridge between past and future, and a reflection of Morocco’s collective memory.  Zemzami also noted that the festival has become a must-attend event, providing artisans with a platform to exchange expertise, showcase their work, and refine their artistic techniques.   Spectators were treated to live runway shows featuring brides draped in opulent Moroccan caftans, each ensemble a vibrant tribute to Morocco’s wedding customs.  These dazzling displays not only captivated audiences but also gave them a glimpse into the vast network of artisanal trades that bring traditional weddings to life.   Since its inception in 2004, the Moroccan Traditional Wedding Festival has cemented its status as a major event for the artisanal sector, both locally and internationally, drawing in professionals, enthusiasts, and cultural heritage advocates alike.  More than just a fashion statement, it’s a celebration of history, craftsmanship, and the enduring artistry that keeps Moroccan traditions alive. Read also: Jardin Majorelle, Ali Zaoua Foundations Empower Youth Through Culture

Love, Lakes, and Lit Weddings: The Amazigh Festival That’s Tinder IRL

Imagine a festival where you can swipe right in real life but with drums, dancing, and no ghosting—intrigued yet? Fez – The Imilchil Marriage Festival, held annually in the village of Imilchil in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, is a vibrant celebration deeply rooted in Amazigh traditions and folklore.  This unique event, also known as the “September Romance,” brings together thousands of people from various tribes to honor love, cultural heritage, and communal bonds. The festival’s origins are entwined with a poignant Amazigh legend reminiscent of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.”  According to the tale, a young man and woman from rival tribes fell deeply in love but were forbidden to marry due to familial and tribal conflicts.  Heartbroken, they are said to have died of sorrow, and their tears formed the neighboring lakes — Isli (his) and Tislit (hers) — near Imilchil.  In their memory, the tribes established an annual event where members could freely choose their spouses, fostering unity and preventing such tragedies in the future.  The 2024 Festival highlights The 2024 edition of the Imilchil Marriage Festival took place from September 19 to 21, attracting a diverse audience of locals and tourists eager to witness this cultural spectacle.  The festival featured traditional Amazigh wedding ceremonies, where couples publicly declared their intentions to marry, accompanied by the blessings of their families and community elders. The event was marked by vibrant music, traditional dances, and colorful attire, showcasing the rich heritage of the Aït Yaazza culture. Upcoming 2025 festival Looking ahead, the 2025 Imilchil Marriage Festival is scheduled for September 19 to 21. As in previous years, it is expected to draw large crowds, including young men and women seeking partners, families, and tourists interested in experiencing this unique cultural event. The festival will continue to feature traditional wedding ceremonies, music, dance, and a lively market atmosphere.  The Imilchil Marriage Festival serves as a fascinating intersection of tradition and modernity. While rooted in age-old customs, the festival has adapted to contemporary times, attracting global attention and fostering cross-cultural exchanges.  This blend of the old and new prompts intriguing discussions about the preservation of cultural heritage in an increasingly globalized world. The Imilchil Marriage Festival not only celebrates love and unity but also raises thought-provoking questions about cultural preservation, traditions’ evolution, and tourism’s impact on Indigenous practices.  So, whether you’re looking for love, vibing to epic Amazigh beats, or just in it for the Insta-worthy moments, the Imilchil Marriage Festival is the place to be.  Who needs dating apps when you’ve got an entire village cheering you on? Mark your calendars for 2025, because who knows—you might just find your soulmate… or at least someone to share couscous with. Read also: A Flavorful Guide for How to be Vegan in Morocco

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