Gold lamps sparkled over a silk throne and the smell of sweet spices and rose water filled the air. It was easy to imagine we were in Morocco (and not New Jersey) for Bouchra and Karl’s wedding this past June. They celebrated with forty of their closest friends and family, and though this may seem like a small affair, the event was jam-packed with colorful costume changes, traditional ceremonies, belly dancers, and exotic food.

Here’s a peek at the duo’s big day:

Bouchra began by getting her hair and makeup done at Hair & Nail Excellence.

Then she went to her brother’s house to prepare.

In a traditional Moroccan wedding the bride changes outfits throughout the day’s events. Bouchra began the festivities in green.

Meanwhile, Karl got ready back at the hotel.

Guests showed up at Marakesh Restaurant, where appetizers were ready and waiting. The restaurant served as both the ceremony and reception site.

Karl rocked out with his brother and sister (ahem, that’s me, Ingrid!) before the bride arrived.

Instead of walking down the aisle with her father, the bride enters with her fiance and the ceremony begins.

No Moroccan wedding is complete without a fez!

After a costume change, Bouchra is presented in a traditional El Amaria, a chair carried around the room by some strong and able men at the party.

Karl also has a costume change and gets his own ride.

Russell sneaks outside as the sun starts to set for a few portraits with the couple.

Then it’s back inside for a magnificent belly dance performance.

Everyone dances at a Moroccan wedding!

After four costume changes (green, white, gold, and red), the “Negeffah” helps Bouchra into her traditional American wedding dress. A “Negeffah” is a special assistant that helps the bride with all of her costume changes, overseeing the style, fashion, and traditional dress of the event.

Karl and Bouchra love hiking, which is how they met. They incorporated this element of their history with a hiking-themed cake.

Under the golden lights, the couple enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.

After the reception, the couple was up for a few night portraits just outside the restaurant.

Congratulations Bouchra + Karl!

Vendors for this Event:

• Hair by Sandra at Hair & Nail Excellence
• Makeup by Jill at Hair & Nail Excellence
• Ceremony and Reception Site: Marakesh Restaurant
• Cake created by Palermo’s Bakery
• Event coordinator: Najat Aouisse
• Gown Boutique: David’s Bridal