striking balance of tradition and modernity stole our hearts and captured our imagination. We knew this was where we wanted to celebrate our love.
Finding the Perfect Villa
First on the agenda was finding a spot to accommodate the two families and give us a luxury experience. After months of browsing the internet, we came across Saakin-an, an internet portal known for the most beautiful villas in Qatar. Their inventory was listed with villas boasting stunning architecture, spacious layouts, and great views.
After much deliberation, we finally decided upon this beautiful villa, which emerged from a fairy tale. Situated amidst green gardens, the villa was equipped with an infinity pool whose view fell on the serene landscape, spacious balconies, and elegant interior decoration. Upon our arrival, we enjoyed great hospitality and a welcome basket full of local delicacies, just the right touches to make us feel immediately at home.
Planning the Big Day
With our luxurious villa secured, we plunged head-on into wedding planning. The days leading up to the event were filled with meetings with local vendors, tastings of traditional Qatari food, and belly laughs as we fantasized about what our day would be like. The spacious outside area at the villa was suitable for our ceremony, while the sunsets promised a magical backdrop.
We wanted to add a dash of local flavor to our celebration. So, from the traditional Qatari music to the menu consisting of traditional dishes, like Machboos and Harees, we wanted the beauty of Qatari culture reflected at our wedding. The staff at the villa helped us with everything; thus, it was smooth and pleasing while planning.
Day Before
The eve of the wedding was just a crazy, frantic activity: inviting all close family members to join the fun, tales, bursting into uncontrollable laughter, and traditional dances in celebration of both cultures with great merriment.
The sun did not disappoint; it set low on the horizon as we completed our gathering around a well-set table with refined centerpieces, twinkling lights, and fresh flowers. The villa’s chef prepared the sumptuous feast, and we savored every bit into the warm breeze. It was just one of those perfect ways to bond with loved ones before the big day.
Magic on Wedding Day
- It was a beautiful morning; the rising sun Coloured the sky with shades of pink and orange. The hair and makeup artists were scurrying around the villa as the family shared this excitement with the fragrance of floral arrangements filling the air.
- Getting into my wedding dress was a swell of nerves and excitement. Equally nervous, my partner got prepared in his room with the close company of his best friends. This spaciously laid-out villa allowed us to enjoy our moments of preparation without feeling rushed.
- As time approached the event, our guests started to arrive. Flipping fabrics, dainty flowers, and dim lights made the outdoors romantic. Light effects lent an element of magic in the air as soft traditional music played in the background.
- When moments arrived, I walked down the aisle with anticipation; my heart pounded. The beauty of the landscape framing my partner as they waited to see me took my breath away as I approached them. Our loved ones surrounded us and exchanged vows reflective of our journey together, promising to support and cherish one another.
Love Celebration
The ceremony mentioned above was followed by the reception on the villa’s big terrace, where we enjoyed the beauty of the sunset, which Coloured the sky in shades of red, orange, and purple. All that was the very romantic background for our festivity: one could hear the interrupted sounds of laughter, heartfelt speeches, and then dancing under the stars.
The caterers we had selected from among the locals in the culinary industry did not disappoint us. The guests were in for a food fest that featured the best that Qatari cuisine could offer, with flavours delighting the taste buds of one and all. The night was graced with the traditional Qatari dessert, adding sweetness to our celebration.
We spent the night dancing amidst loved ones, joy soaking us to the bone. The villa added to the magic: the twinkling fairy lights above our heads and the soft gurgling of the pool water almost soothingly making background noise.
A Memorable Experience
As the night slowly ended, we gathered around the infinity pool for the last toast. With loved ones surrounding me, we discussed today and all our happy memories. The villa had also become more than a venue; it was a safe sanctuary that held our laughter, tears, and promises.
The following day, a leisurely brunch taken at the villa in no particular hurry was a way to relish every last moment of the wedding experience. The sun shone, and a light breeze blew, and we were thankful the journey had brought them to this point.
Conclusion
Our destination wedding at Umm Salal Muhammad was everything we wished for and so much more. Saakin provided a luxurious villa at the heart of our celebration, full of comfort and elegance. Beautiful sceneries, rich culture, and love from family and friends made it an unforgettable wedding experience.
While we packed our bags to leave, we knew this beautiful destination would remain in the memory of all three of us for many years to come. The State of Qatar gave us a wedding and a treasure trove of memories that would be etched in our minds forever.