it was a unique and honoring experience to be in a candlelit room full of powerful and strong women, all smiling and genuinely proud of to be a part of this breathtaking middle eastern tradition that is a henna party. the doors closed shut, and the laughter, hugs, and calls made out to gheed began. everyone was overwhelmed with giddy anticipation for what was to come, and so the night began….starting with the ritual of applying henna on the bride.

gheed sat in wedding bliss as all the important women in her life surrounded her, watching with genuine happiness as the dark henna slowly made its way up her arm. one by one, the rest of the women followed suit, all with intricate designs and beautifying themselves for this special night. the art of applying henna is a tradition going back thousands of years, as a way to bless the bride before her wedding day.

the sun slowly went down, and the dancing began as the women took turns swaying their hips and graciously swinging their arms to the upbeat iraqi music. it moved everything in me to be able to witness this special event, a tradition and culture that i have little experience with. the way these women confidently moved their bodies, proud of every part of them, put into perspective what life is really about. i was reminded of how misconstrued our society is as we get totally engulfed in what is expected of women’s physical appearances today. being “too skinny” no longer exists, and the pressures from celebrities, magazines, and social media are an unfortunate influence on growing girls who are turning to these mediums for advice. i think it’s safe to say that everyone, myself included, has prioritized our physical beauty over our inner beauty at one point or another. it was humbling to be reminded what it means to just be strong and beautiful, to accept the imperfections, and to respect your body on your own terms, not someone else’s.

i love what i do. not only because of my overwhelming desire to photograph life however perfect or messy as it may be, but because i want to pass on the stories and traditions, reliving the emotions and moments that when put together make up someone’s life. being able to document these stories is downright inspiring, and a constant reminder that through the craziness that is life, you can and will always find love.

Gheed- thank you for inviting me into your life to document this important day. i wish you many days of happiness and have no doubt that you have many strong women in your life to support you through your endeavors. truly it was a privilege and honor to be a part of your day.

so…normally, being locked in a room with 70 women would completely freak me out, (hello hormones!)…but in the end…i would say this was one of the best “girl’s night out” that i have been to yet. :-) 

enjoy!