Memona & Salman’s Unforgettable

Andrew Mellon Auditorium Pakistani Wedding

Some love stories deserve a setting as grand as the love they celebrate. Memona & Salman’s Andrew Mellon Auditorium Pakistani wedding was a breathtaking fusion of timeless elegance and rich South Asian traditions. With the grandeur of this historic Washington, DC venue, their multi-day wedding felt like something out of a dream—a celebration full of culture, connection, and artistry.

Andrew Mellon Auditorium, known for its towering Corinthian columns, opulent chandeliers, and neoclassical architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for their luxurious Pakistani wedding. From the vibrant mehndi night to the regal reception, every detail of their wedding was a reflection of their personalities and love for each other.

A Love Story Rooted in Tradition & Modern Romance

Memona & Salman’s journey began with a chance meeting at a mutual friend’s wedding, where a simple conversation over chai turned into something more profound. Their love grew through shared laughter, deep conversations, and a mutual appreciation for tradition.

When Salman proposed, he planned an intimate moment with a private rooftop dinner overlooking the DC skyline—a subtle nod to their first date. Memona, known for her elegance and grace, envisioned a wedding that balanced cultural heritage with modern sophistication. Together, they chose Andrew Mellon Auditorium as the venue, knowing it would perfectly reflect the grandeur and emotion of their union.

Why Andrew Mellon Auditorium is Perfect for a Pakistani Wedding

Pakistani weddings are vibrant, multi-event affairs that require a venue as spectacular as the occasion itself. Andrew Mellon Auditorium is the epitome of grandeur, offering:

• A Majestic Ballroom – Perfect for large guest counts, accommodating up to 1,000 guests comfortably.
• Iconic Architecture – The soaring ceilings, grand columns, and intricate gold detailing enhance the luxury of a Pakistani wedding.
• Versatile Space for Multi-Day Celebrations – Ideal for hosting a mehndi, baraat, nikkah, and walima in one stunning location.
• Central DC Location – Convenient for guests, with luxury hotels nearby for seamless accommodations.
• Vendor Flexibility – Allows couples to bring in specialized Pakistani caterers, decorators, and entertainment.

Memona & Salman’s Andrew Mellon Auditorium Pakistani Wedding

Getting ready: The Calm before the Celebration

Memona and Salman began their Pakistani Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium wedding morning in two distinctly different ways, each reflecting their personalities. Memona chose the serene elegance of The Jefferson, where she prepared in calm solitude with just Malia’s Artistry team crafting her bridal look. Later, her sister and cousin joined for a heartfelt moment, adding warmth to the quiet anticipation.

Meanwhile, Salman embraced the energy of his groomsmen at JW Marriott, opting for a morning filled with laughter, camaraderie, and pre-wedding excitement. With the couple getting ready at two separate locations and an abundance of intricate wedding details to document, having a second shooter was essential—ensuring that every meaningful moment was captured with care and artistry.

The Nikkah: Sacred & Serene

Memona & Salman’s nikkah ceremony was a vision of serenity, taking place under a floral arch by Dharma Events  with soft candlelight and a cascading jasmine backdrop. The grand hall’s ethereal glow created an atmosphere of peace and reverence, perfectly suited for the sacred vows.

The Baraat: A Grand Entrance Fit for Royalty

Salman’s baraat arrival was nothing short of cinematic—riding in on a white horse, led by an entourage of family and friends dancing to the rhythm of live dhol players. The grand columns of Andrew Mellon Auditorium served as the perfect frame for this majestic entrance, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.

The Reception: A Regal Pakistani Affair

The final event of the wedding weekend was the glamorous reception, where every detail was curated for elegance and sophistication:

• A gilded stage draped in white orchids and lush greenery, highlighting the couple as the focal point of the evening.
• A grand crystal chandelier installation, adding a touch of opulence to the ballroom.
• A multi-tiered wedding cake adorned with intricate sugar florals, matching the couple’s aesthetic.
• An exquisite multi-course Pakistani menu featuring biryani, chapli kebabs, and mango kulfi, catered by one of DC’s top South Asian chefs.
• A slow-motion fog dance floor moment for the couple’s first dance, creating a cinematic, ethereal experience crafted by Dj Raj.

Andrew Mellon Auditorium Pakistani Wedding Photography

Every corner of Andrew Mellon Auditorium lends itself to breathtaking wedding portraits. As a multicultural wedding photographer, I focus on capturing the emotional depth, cultural vibrancy, and timeless elegance of South Asian celebrations.

Best Photo Locations at Andrew Mellon Auditorium:

• The grand entrance with towering Corinthian columns for stunning couple portraits.
• The ballroom with its opulent chandeliers, capturing the romance and grandeur of the night.
• The sweeping staircase, ideal for elegant bridal portraits and wedding party shots.
• The candlelit reception hall, preserving the intimate moments shared between newlyweds.

Stay tuned and I’ll be posting another Andrew Mellon Auditorium Pakistani Wedding in the coming months.

Andrew Mellon Auditorium Pakistani Wedding Cost & Planning

A Pakistani wedding at Andrew Mellon Auditorium is an investment in luxury and timeless elegance. While pricing varies based on guest count and vendor selection, here’s a general estimate:

• Venue Rental Fees: Starting at $35,000+ for peak wedding seasons.
• Guest Capacity: Accommodates up to 1,000 guests.
• Catering & Beverage Minimums: Customizable for Pakistani cuisine.
• Décor & Floral Costs: Based on wedding vision and vendor pricing.
• Vendor Coordination: An absolute for a seamless experience.

For an exact quote, contact the venue directly.

See their photos and highlight reel below. Memona and Salman booked us for cinematography as well as photography for their Andrew Mellon Auditorium Pakistani Wedding. The benefit to this is that our team used to working together and it makes the entire process very smooth.

 

Memona and Salman Pakistani Wedding from Akbar Sayed Photography on Vimeo.