A Rainy Dubai Engagement Party Full Of Joy By Effleurer Photo

We’ve a gorgeously atmospheric engagement shoot on BCME today, thanks to photographer Valeria Salikhava of Effleurer Photo, who captured Iman and Mohamed’s rainy celebration back in March. Taking place at the sweeping Jumeirah Golf Estates, we’re sure you’ll agree that the weather certainly did not put a dampener on the spirit and joy of the occasion. If anything, it only served to make it all the more special!

Read on to hear Valeria’s account of the day and to find out how she achieved such beautiful shots. As always, there’s plenty of pretty images to swoon over too. Enjoy!

Above left: Valeria Effleurer of Effleurer Photo

A Note From the Photographer

From the first moment I met Iman and Mohamed, I knew this was going to be a truly special engagement night celebration, full of love, warmth, and joy. These two are perfect for one another, and incredibly in love – a dream couple for a photographer!

I was thrilled by their choice of the venue, the elegant Jumeirah Golf Estates Clubhouse with its beautiful outdoor Earth Terrace. A few weeks before the engagement night I went to visit the venue to find the best spots for the bride and groom portraits, and when I sent the pictures of the staircase and charming views of the golf fields to Iman, she was so excited!

Their engagement night was full of beauty and elegance thanks to the amazing The Purple Chair and the gorgeous flowers of Le Marché de Fleurs. I adored those pretty details: welcome signs on the mirrors, a dreamy arch, hanging lanterns filled with flowers, a stunning dining table setup and the twinkle lights that created a unique romantic atmosphere.

Iman’s dream gown by Esposa Privé was an absolute show stopper. She carried a pretty bouquet of pink ranunculus and looked so gorgeous. It was priceless to see Mohamed’s reaction the moment his beautiful bride came down the stairs and I was so glad to be there to capture their story. It was easy to work with this sweet couple, we really enjoyed the process even under the rain, and it was not going to stop us!

When we discussed the engagement night with Iman and Mohamed, I understood how important it was for them to have photographs with their families. My priority was to focus on those touchy, genuine moments and interactions with people who are so important for them and whom they love the most. Two of my favorite images are Iman and her mother embracing each other and the father daughter dance. These moments are truly beautiful and heart-melting.

The Bride’s Little Pink Book

Photographer: Effleurer Photo / Wedding Planner: The Purple Chair / Florals: Le Marché des Fleurs / Venue: Jumeirah Golf Estates Clubhouse / Bridal Gown: Esposa