The next two posts are a series of pictures from Amber’s and Joe’s Mehndi and Nikkah Ceremonies that took place over a two-day period in January. We spent both days at the home of Amber’s family in Palos Verdes. It was such a colorful and festive celebration of union for the two. They will be having a traditional Western wedding in November 2010.

Enjoy the photos!

Day 1: Mehndi Ceremony
Traditionally the Mehndi Ceremony takes place a day or two before the main wedding day and is a festive celebration of the bride and groom. Amber’s guests sang and danced before Joe arrived. Once Joe arrived, guests partook in the Sadka (warding off evil). Guests then donate money by circling three times on the Bride and Grooms head.

You will also find Amber’s hands were beautifully decorated with henna and often in these designs the groom’s name or initial is hidden within the design. See if you could find Joe’s.

The Brides and her bridesmaids

The henna artists in action

Here comes the Groom:

The Groom and the Groomsmen:

Everyone awaits for the bride to come out: