Location: Budapest, Hungary
Setting: Ceremony – church and bastille; Reception – ballroom
Season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
The number of guests: 120
Wedding theme/style: A blend of modern, elegant, classic and multicultural.
Tina and KC have a love story that started in a university exam room. Originally from Germany, Tina and KC, from Iran, were both studying to become medical professionals when fate brought them together. Tina decided to spend two semesters abroad in Budapest at Semmelweis University, where KC was a full-time dental student. There, they fell in love and started a relationship that lasted for a decade before they decided to tie the knot.
They lived a nomadic lifestyle and moved frequently before settling in the United States. However, no matter where they went, they always knew that they will marry in Budapest, the city where they first met and fell in love. Budapest held a special place in their hearts, and they treasured their memories. It was a time in their lives that they both considered the best.
The stunning city of Budapest, known for its beautiful monuments and rich history, provided a unique backdrop for Tina and KC’s wedding. The historic significance of their chosen venues was truly breathtaking. The celebration of two very different cultures coming together in one of the most amazing cities in the world was a sight to behold. The wedding planner, Dóra from Budapest Wedding, helped the couple bring their vision to life with a beautiful setting and made every wish possible.
Tina and KC began their wedding celebrations with a river cruise on the famous Danube River, setting the tone for unforgettable events. The cruise offered picturesque views of Budapest’s historical and architectural marvels. The dancers, dressed in colorful national costumes, performed with enthusiasm and skill, bringing the folklore and traditions of Hungary to life. This lively display gave guests an immersive cultural experience, showcasing Hungary’s folk heritage and arts.
The groom’s wedding attire was carefully selected from the renowned fashion house of Ermenegildo Zegna. The tuxedo featured a sleek black jacket with sharp lapels and a crisp white shirt, setting a tone of understated luxury. The black bow tie and silver cufflinks were subtle yet striking, adding a hint of personal style and refinement. His black dress shoes were polished to a mirror sheen, rounding off his outfit with impeccable attention to detail.
Tina looked stunning on her special day, exuding elegance and grace. Her hair, makeup, and dress perfectly matched her radiant beauty. Tina chose a gorgeous Suzanne Neville gown, known for its sophisticated and beautifully constructed bridal wear. The dress had a sleek, modern silhouette with a fitted bodice that flowed seamlessly into a graceful, voluminous skirt. The minimalistic design was accentuated by an off-the-shoulder neckline, adding a touch of romance and softness to the overall look. The bride wore iconic Manolo Blahnik shoes in a soft pastel blue shade, which provided a subtle pop of color that peeked out from under her dress.
Tina’s hair was styled in an elegant updo, keeping her looking polished throughout the day’s festivities. Soft strands framed her face, softening her features and adding a feminine touch to her look. Delicate white flowers were tucked into her hair, echoing the floral themes of the wedding and adding a natural element to her sophisticated hairstyle. Her makeup was flawlessly applied, emphasizing her natural beauty. Subtle earth tones complemented her blue eyes, with just enough definition to enhance her features without overshadowing her natural glow. A light blush and a nude lip color completed the look, perfect for achieving a fresh and radiant bridal glow.
Tina and KC selected the historical Matthias Church in the heart of Budapest for their Catholic ceremony. The church is well-known for its Gothic architecture and stunning interior, featuring intricate patterns, vibrant frescoes, high ceilings, and stained-glass windows that create a mystical ambiance. This church was a perfect choice for the couple’s ceremony, as it is the same venue where Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sissi, was crowned Queen of Hungary.
The Catholic ceremony was followed by a traditional Persian ceremony at Fisherman’s Bastion, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The Persian ceremony took place outdoors and featured a beautiful Sofreh Aghd spread, which included various elements symbolizing the couple’s future life together. Mirrors and candelabras represented light and fire; assorted sweets symbolized the sweetness of life; decorative eggs and almonds symbolized fertility and abundance; and herbs and spices were meant to purify and guard against the evil eye.
The atmosphere during the Persian ceremony was vibrant and joyous, with traditional elements interwoven with the laughter and blessings of the guests. This significant cultural celebration marked the union of two families and two heritages in a spirit of love and unity.
After their emotional wedding ceremonies, Tina and KC took an hour to enjoy each other’s company and stroll through the breathtaking Fisherman’s Bastion. The stunning architecture and panoramic views created a serene environment for the newlyweds to connect intimately on their special day.
While the couple spent some private moments together, their guests enjoyed an elegant cocktail hour leading up to the reception. The cocktail hour took place in an outdoor space or a beautifully decorated area of the Marriott Hotel, with picturesque views of the Danube River and the Buda Hills. Guests enjoyed various finely crafted drinks and hors d’oeuvres with light music.
The reception provided an exquisite venue that perfectly mirrored the day’s grandeur. Each table featured taupe linens, sparkling crystal glassware, and polished cutlery, all reflecting the soft lighting from the chandeliers above. The centerpieces were gorgeous arrangements of white roses, peonies, and hydrangeas in tall, golden vases, giving the setting an air of regal sophistication. Green foliage interspersed among the blooms brought a refreshing touch that echoed the natural beauty outside the ballroom windows. Each menu card was accompanied by a single green leaf, reinforcing the theme of natural elegance that permeated the wedding decor.
As Tina and KC entered the reception area, the atmosphere transformed into an enchanting celebration. The ballroom lights dimmed slightly, drawing everyone’s attention to the dance floor. Their first dance was a beautifully orchestrated moment that set the tone for the rest of the evening.
The newlyweds warmly greeted their guests at their wedding celebration, eager to hear heartfelt speeches that would stay with them for years. The air was filled with joy and excitement as everyone celebrated the union of two cultures. As guests shared stories and memories, Tina and KC felt grateful, knowing they were surrounded by so much love and support.
Although unexpected situations such as overbooked hotels and a morning rain shower on the wedding day occurred, the professional team of Budapest Wedding remained undeterred. They worked tirelessly with an unwavering commitment to excellence, ensuring that every detail was perfect and nothing was left to chance.
Advice from the couple:
• Be present on the actual day. Things will always go wrong, and you can not anticipate everything. Let go and let others help you handle the unexpected. Ultimately, the most important thing on your wedding day is to celebrate each other with all the loved ones around you. Enjoy every minute of it; the day will fly by. Take every moment and have fun. This day is about you two!
PLANNER Budapest Wedding | PHOTOGRAPHER Rokolya Photography | VIDEOGRAPHER Destination Wedding | VENUE Ceremony: Halászbástya Étterem, Reception: Budapest Marriott Hotel | FLORALS Sabina decors | FURNITURE Amerikaiszek.hu | TEXTILE Textil Guru | RENTAL La Mesa Event | GRAPHIC DESIGNER Boglarka Gleichauf | AV Eventech Solutions | ENTERTAINMENT Maya N Peti | MUAH Vekshina Elena, Nora Brown, Agi Redli | DRESS Suzanne Neville | BRIDAL SHOES Manolo Blahnik | SUIT Ermenegildo Zegna | CAKE Marangona
