An Open Letter To Brides-To-Be During A Time Of Uncertainty
“Keep dreaming a little longer, your dream will come true,” says wedding expert, Zainab Alsalih
Dear brides-to-be,
As the latest issue of Harper’s Bazaar Arabia Bride magazine was being sent to the printers, the world as we know it was turned upon its head, and as the founder and owner of a wedding and event-planning company, I’ve had many people turn to me for support and advice. Having worked with Bazaar Bride and with editor, Nina Catt on numerous occasions, I was asked if I would like to write an open letter of support to the community, and without hesitation, I said yes!
A few months ago, the world was a dramatically different place, and we were living in a different reality, blissfully oblivious to what was coming our way. Today, despite the global turmoil we are witnessing, we should all feel grateful for the little things that matter the most: the love of our family and friends, and an appreciation of how much they mean to us, made more profound by the unfathomable realities of social distancing. In the midst of all of this, we should not allow our fears to create a barrier between us and those we love. The human touch, whether in person or from afar, physical or emotional, remains the most meaningful part of being alive, and is what defines each and every one of us.
At times like this, in the midst of what would have been peak wedding season, I can’t help but think of the many brides who have been deeply disappointed by the postponement of their weddings. But this is merely a bump in the road. Love will prevail, couples will have their weddings, and families will come together in wonderful celebrations of joy. The added wait will only make it that much more meaningful and exciting when the big day finally arrives. Many brides have been dreaming all their lives for this day, so I would say to them, with all my heart, just keep dreaming a little longer; your dream will come true.
We always tell our brides that the journey to their wedding day is just as important as the destination, and your journey to that big day may be a slightly longer one than you anticipated, but your love will endure and even grow. You should continue to plan, but you shouldn’t commit to any specific date or venue just yet. Wait and see how things evolve in the coming weeks. Don’t agonize over trying to make decisions that don’t need to be made, and often, decisions that ultimately make themselves for you. This shall pass and that wonderful and magical day is around the corner. I only ask that you stay healthy, stay positive, stay in love, and dream of better days to come… Long live love!
Zainab Alsalih, Founder and Creative Director, Carousel Events
Zainab Alsalih
From the spring/summer 2020 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Arabia Bride
Lead image: Unsplash/Adrianna Van Groningen