Wahida + Mahdi’s Afghan Wedding | Jesmond Park | Jackson Barry Photography
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Love, Tradition & Magic at this Jesmond Park Wedding
Let me tell you a little love story. Not the dating-app kind (although I’ve told plenty of those too!). This is the story of Wahida and Mahdi, whose journey to marriage didn’t involve any swiping right—it was chosen with love, intention, and the blessing of two families. Their Jesmond Park wedding wasn’t just a union of two people; it was a moment stitched together with culture, patience, and hope. And yep, I totally cried!
A Modern Arranged Marriage
In Afghan culture, arranged marriages are incredibly common—Wahida and Mahdi’s families knew each other, and so a decision was made: these two would build a life together.
Their wedding celebration? Oh, just a casual event with over 1,600 guests in Afghanistan. No biggie. Except… Mahdi couldn’t be there in person. He was in Australia, watching the whole thing unfold online. Can you imagine attending your own wedding via livestream?
Unusual? Yes. Unforgettable? Absolutely.
A Slow-Burn Romance Across Countries
Their love bloomed through distance and time. Wahida was studying English and nursing in Malaysia (top of her class, thank you very much!), while Mahdi was hustling in Australia. They’d meet in Iran now and again—each meeting a rare and precious gift.
Years passed. Time zones sucked. But nothing stopped their connection. They kept believing in their shared future, even when oceans, obligations and visas pulled them apart.
And then… finally, they were in the same place, same country, ready to turn hope into home.
The Kiss
In Afghani culture, public displays of affection—even on a wedding day—are generally considered inappropriate. Even though there were no guests around, the couple still wanted to honour their cultural traditions. Instead of a big kiss, they chose a tender kiss on the cheek—a simple, meaningful gesture that stayed true to both their love and their roots.
Location for the Jesmond Park Wedding
When it came to making things official, Wahida and Mahdi wanted something simple. Just the two of them. No fuss. No guests. Just their promises under the open sky.
We didn’t even have a set ceremony spot at Jesmond Park. We met in the car park (as you do), wandered through the gardens, and stopped at a peaceful spot near the roses. It felt right. Organic. Real.
There’s something incredibly powerful about a wedding that’s stripped back to its essentials: love, trust, and two brave hearts. I cried when they exchanged heartfelt words. It was raw, honest, and beautiful.
Need a Witnesses for your Jesmond Park Wedding? No Problem
Did you know you don’t need to know your wedding witnesses personally?
That’s right! Wahida and Mahdi didn’t bring anyone along, which is totally fine. I arranged everything. The photographer Jackson Barry, and my lovely celebrant mentee and personal spiritual guide Jen from Majenta Moon, happily stood in as witnesses.
Fun fact: In the past I’ve roped in café staff or friendly park-goers to witness vows. As long as they’re over 18 and can hear what’s being said, they’re good to go!
Here’s what Jen + Jackson said afterward about their experience:
“Mahdi and Wahida’s wedding was so special. The simple things can truly have so much heart and love in them. In the beautiful expanse of rolling green lawns and rose gardens, with the afternoon sun kissing Wahida’s stunning dress, we witnessed Julie perform a touching and heart centred ceremony. I’m always touched by how moving wedding ceremonies are, whether big or small, they are the moment two people truly choose each other and begin the next chapter of their lives.” Jen
“As a photographer, my role is usually to quietly observe and document the moments as they unfold, capturing the emotions and the details for the couple to cherish later. But this wedding was a little different. With no guests and an intimate ceremony focused solely on the couple, I had the honour of not just photographing the day, but also serving as a witness. It was a powerful reminder that love doesn’t need an audience.” Jackson
Afghan Community, Right Here in Newcastle
Just after the ceremony, a group of local Afghan kids wandered over, curious about the gathering. When we told them it was a wedding—an Afghani wedding—their faces lit up with recognition and delight.
They asked if they could join the celebration, and of course, I handed them the custom eco-confetti I’d made for Wahida and Mahdi. Their laughter and excitement were infectious, adding an unexpected layer of joy to the day. For the couple, hearing their native language spoken so far from home was a beautiful surprise—like the universe whispering its blessing over the whole event.
Why a Blue Dress? The Story Behind Wahida’s Choice
Traditionally, Afghan brides wear emerald green for the Nikah, symbolising prosperity and new beginnings. Wahida did just that at her religious ceremony in Afghanistan.
But for her Jesmond Park wedding, she chose a beautiful blue dress she bought back home—commonly worn for Afghani engagement shoots. It was elegant, meaningful, and completely her.
And let’s be honest, it looked amazing against the backdrop of Jesmond’s rose garden.
Review
“She is the best 👍”
-Mahdi + Wahida
Short, sweet, and straight to the point – I love it! I’ll be adding ‘the best’ to my resume immediately 😄
Jesmond Park Wedding Tips for Couples Craving Simplicity
- No guests? No problem. You don’t need a crowd to make it official.
- Witnesses are easy to arrange—I’ve got you covered.
- No need to over-plan. Sometimes the best ceremony spots are the ones you stumble across.
- Keep it real. Speak from the heart, and your ceremony will be unforgettable.
- Don’t forget the mosquito spray. Nature is beautiful, but no-one wants to get bitten, so pack some especially if you are getting married at dusk.
Thinking About Your Own Jesmond Park Wedding?
Jesmond Park boasts large, impressive grounds, established trees and is renowned for its magnificent rose gardens. Highly underrated, this park is a lovely venue for your wedding ceremony.
If you’re dreaming of a sweet, soulful, just-the-two-of-you wedding, Jesmond Park is a gorgeous option. Nature. Space. Flexibility. You can show up in a wedding dress, jeans, or even a Pikachu onesie (true story—it’s happened).
Whether it’s a big cultural bash or a quiet “I do” with birdsong in the background, I’m here for it. I’ll help you design a ceremony that’s honest, relaxed, and absolutely you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we have a private wedding at Jesmond Park?
Yes! It’s a public space, but it’s large so you can generally have a quiet, intimate ceremony with just the two of you, and few witnesses without many disturbances.
Do we need to bring our own witnesses?
Nope! I’m more than happy to arrange them for you. Photographers, mentees, even friendly strangers—we’ll make it happen.
What happens if it rains?
Jesmond Park has some covered areas, or we can get creative! A cute umbrella moment makes for fabulous photos. If your guest numbers are low, we think on our feet and dont get stressed.
Do we need to book a space at Jesmond Park?
Generally, for a tiny ceremony, it’s okay to just turn up. But if you want something more set-up or formal, you’ll need to book a 2 hour time slot through the council.
What should we wear?
Whatever feels right. Wahida wore a blue engagement-style dress; Mahdi kept it classic. Some couples go casual, others dress to the nines. There’s no rulebook here.
Can we include cultural traditions?
Absolutely. I love incorporating meaningful elements—whether it’s a reading, a different language, or a symbolic act from your culture.
Want to Plan Your Own Jesmond Park Wedding? Let’s Chat.
Whether you’re eloping, planning a legals only ceremony, a micro wedding or a big wedding with lots of guests, I’m here to tell your story with heart and humour.
Let’s make your day feel wildly personal—without the stress.
Get inspired by real couples I’ve married in intimate, ‘legals only’ registry-style weddings and heartfelt elopements across Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, check out some blogs here.
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