What is a wedding ceremony?

In western culture, like in many cultures around the world, a wedding ceremony the first event on the wedding day where guests watch the bride and groom exchange vows, rings and they are pronounced husband and wife. As Christians, it is also important for us to receive God's blessing on our marriage amongst family and friends.

What is a wedding reception?


Guests are invited to a meal to celebrate with the newly married couple. There are a few speeches, paying tribute to the bride and groom's past, present and future. We are having this part of the wedding in the USA where Joanna was born and lived half of her life!

What is a cèilidh?

It's an informal social gathering for group and partner dancing to traditional or contemporary folk music. In Scottish tradition, the last part of the wedding is often a ceilidh where guests can join the dances and have a lot of fun! Don't worry, you don't need to know the dances beforehand, we will teach you as we go along! Stephen lived most of his life in Scotland and this is his favourite part of weddings!

Which part of the wedding am I invited to?

All of them! We would love for you to join us for any of the three events you are able to travel to.

Where will you be legally married?

We will be legally married in Riyadh, KSA through the British Embassy.

Are the events men and women separate?

No, the event in Saudi also combines men and woman in the same venue following our western tradition.

Are the events suitable for children?

Yes, your children are welcome at all three events.

What should I wear to the ceremony?

These days in Riyadh there is no expectation for women to cover their hair or wear an abaya, but you are free to wear whatever you are comfortable with. To fit in with the current changes, we recommend women wearing dresses with a high neck and covering below the knee.

What language will the wedding ceremony be in?

There will be both English and Arabic in the wedding ceremony, with some translation.

Can I take photos?

At the ceremony we ask for the official photographer only. Our event in Riyadh will have diversity of cultures present and want everyone to feel comfortable. So we ask that you don't post photos of wedding guests onto social media.

Will the official photos be posted to social media?

We would love you to be in our official photos! Be assured that we won't post any of the ceremony guest photos onto social media.

Do you have a Registry / Gift List?

If you would like to buy a gift online that will help us set up our home, here are some gift card options for local stores: Amazon.sa, eXtra, Noon, SACO and Home Center. Please use email joannajy333@gmail.com and +1(865) 315-8519 when it asks for “Deliver to” details. But please don’t feel you have to get us anything!