The walima is the second of the two parts of an Islamic wedding. It is the wedding reception banquet and is performed after the nikkah (marriage ceremony).
The walima is used as a symbol to show domestic happiness in the household post-marriage, and to announce the marriage openly for recognition of the new couple.
The walima generally takes place in the locale where the newly married couple is to reside (that’s why we’re celebrating it in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex). While cultural practices sometimes differ, marriage expenses and costs of the walima are generally borne by the groom or his family.
And what should I be expecting when I attend a Walima?
The main event is to eat and enjoy the company of the newlyweds, their friends, and family. We will be walking around to meet with everyone and feel free to mingle with all of the other guests.
We will also have some speeches by friends and family members as well as a few games.
And don’t forget to come and take pictures with us!
Do I have to wear hijab?
Nope! Only if you'd like to. We have strong and great appreciation for those that choose to wear a hijab during any Islamic gathering but it is not required. If you'd like to have a scarf or hijab over yourself during part of the ceremony and take it off later, that is also fine!
What do I wear?!
We want to encourage modest, covered, and ethnic clothing for both men and women.
We kindly ask that there is no casual clothing or jeans. Formal attire only.
In South Asian weddings, we encourage dressing up - so this is your chance to wear the MOST bling outfit you have! And don't worry, you can't outdo the bride ;) Let's say if you don't go all out...well you'll feel underdressed.
For anyone interested in Pakistani clothing, here are some examples of what the attire is like. You are more than welcomed to dress in these clothes! We love to see it and celebrate our diversity! Buying Pakistani clothes online? Go ahead! I (safa) have never bought it online, so let me know how it goes. I do have recommendations for local Pakistani attire in DFW. Hit me up if you're interested. For men, the attire is called Shalwar Kameez or Shalwar Kurta. For women, we got choices! Anything from a sari, lengha, anarkali, gharara, sharara, and shalwar kameez (yes there's ones for gals), and maxis!
When is the RSVP deadline?
July 1st! Please do so ASAP if you haven't already so we may get an accurate headcount.
Can I bring a "plus one"? And are kids welcomed?
Please check your invite for this information.
Is the wedding indoors or outdoors? And what's the weather like in Dallas?
Indoors! Stay hydrated! Texas heat is no joke.
Is it okay to take pictures with our phones and cameras during the wedding?
For sure! We would love to see all the pictures - whether they are candid shots or goofy faces! We will be having a photographer and videographer at the wedding so we ask that you let them have priority. In addition, we will be having a special gallery for our guests to take pictures and share their photos in!
If I can't make it to the wedding, then what?
As much as we would like all of our guests to attend in person, we understand that sometimes life can throw curveballs. We will be setting up a live stream for those that are not able to make it to the wedding!