Oaxaca Destination Wedding | Ethnobotanical Garden

Nazanin is Iranian, and Miguel is Mexican-American. They decided together early on that their wedding would follow both Mexican and Persian customs and traditions.

They chose Oaxaca for their destination wedding in Mexico, and they invite a large group of people from literally all over the world to enjoy the celebration

There are many customs and rituals observed in the 'aghd' -most of them, very different from Western traditions. But Nazanin managed to incorporate at least some of the most essential and traditional Iranian wedding elements in her ceremony:

The 'sofreyé aghd,' that is a crucial aspect of a Persian wedding, and what makes it unique from all others in the world ('sofré,' is the word for 'tablecloth' in Persian). And the 'ayné va shamdoon' (mirror and candlesticks), which are the most important and most iconic part of the 'sofré.'

It is the custom that the mirror and candlesticks will become a part of the couple's home as a memento of their wedding ceremony. Therefore, they must be chosen wisely and with the personality of the couple in mind.

The mirror symbolizes eternity and the candlesticks reference Zoroastrianism, in which light and fire play an essential part. In this context, the fire and light represent the brightness of the future and eternal passion. The mirror and candlesticks are situated in front of the bride and groom during the 'aghd.' The mirror should be facing the couple and away from the audience.

It is customary for the bride and groom to have photos of them looking into the mirror, representing them looking into the future

After the ceremony, all the wedding guests made this incredible parade with the bride and groom, among all the local people, citizens, tourists, and those who were present at that precise moment. This street parade is famous in the Mexican traditions, and it is known as 'Calenda.'

The 'Calenda' is an Oaxacan celebration that has its bases in colonization, as the towns that now make up the Mexican territory had a full and complex calendar for their celebrations. Oaxaca is one of the Mexican cities most faithful to its traditions, jealously guarding its fulfillment. Hence, all the festivities in Oaxaca begin with the famous 'Calenda' parade through the streets of the historic center. Since this is how the whole town is symbolically announced and invited to the party.

A crucial part of the 'Calenda' is the giant motley dolls

They are made with a reed frame covered by clothing and crowned with a head formed with paper-mâché. These giants are maneuvered by young people, who make these folk characters simulate a dance to the beat of traditional music. Spinning, maintaining balance, and moving the giant's arms without stopping, such as a swirl of colors. A notable craft of Oaxaca, not only filling the celebration with color but bringing together people from different delegations, creating a lively party.

It was at least about 30-45 minutes of pure madness around the historic center of Oaxaca city. A unique and so inspiring experience to shoot!

In conclusion, for those who wish to live a unique and memorable experience on their wedding day, out of all stereotypes and with a high dose of originality, the new recommendation is an Oaxaca Wedding Destination. The possibilities of merging different customs and nationalities in the same celebration are endless. You just have to follow your instincts and think outside the box, with a fearless boldness soul!

Di Lusso

See you soon with my next wedding adventure. Have a great day, folks! D.

• Shared links: Groom's Getting Ready at: La Casona de Tita. | Bride's Getting Ready at: Casa Oaxaca Hotel. | Rehearsal Dinner at: Casa Oaxaca El Restaurante. | Event and Reception at: Jardín Etnobotanico de Oaxaca. | Wedding Planning by: Marcela González. | Thanks to all!