Natalie & Ramzi | Domaine Du Compte Beirut | Wedding
It’s hard to know where to begin trying to describe Ramzi and Natalie’s Beirut wedding at Domaine Du Compte. It has been a few weeks but I’ve had time to digest it. I’m going to start by saying that their wedding celebration was like something out of a movie set. Really. I actually thought that at the time Natalie made her entrance. Along with other times during the course of the evening. I made a conscious effort to take it in and enjoy the experience despite working pretty hard. I feel really fortunate to have been their Domaine Du Compte Wedding Photographer in Beirut. An area of the world I never thought I would have visited (more about that later!)
Whilst I love being a destination wedding photographer, it was even more mind blowing because Natalie is an extremely accomplished photographer in her own right. Maybe she couldn’t have taken her own wedding photographs (!) but, you know, when another photographer hires you the pressure to deliver increases “a little” and I really enjoyed the challenge.
Ramzi was a true gentleman. When you host a wedding with 250 guests you’d expect the groom to not really have much time to speak to you. Not only did he thank me at several points during the night, even on the dance floor, he offered me drinks and also invited us to a big brunch with his family the following day. How nice is that?! Even the hotel they kindly arranged was epic. Before arriving I envisioned it to be quite hot, slightly dirty and well worn. Maybe some flies buzzing around. Instead it was Superman themed, there were televisions in the lift, a swimming pool on the roof, incredible views over the city and a breakfast fit for a king. In fact, if you ever visit Beirut (and I’d encourage everyone to) make sure you check in to the Smallville hotel.
A huge thank you to Cherry on Top Events. Naila was a pleasure to work with and her organising (for my part) made the day significantly easier. I wish she could come to every wedding. If you’re wondering then Natalie’s gown is Ahmad Alfazairy. Ramzi and the guys looked great in Tom Ford suits. Also, last but not least, Beiroots (that name never gets old!) did an incredible job beautifying Natalie and her family in the morning. Probably one of the best salons I’ve been to (and not just because of the name!)
For good company and for being a trusty second photographer Kim Gribbon came along with me. He made sure I drank water, and covered the angles I wasn’t around for or didn’t see.
As it was my first time being a Domaine Du Compte Wedding Photographer I did some good research but didn’t really find all that much in terms of quality photos on the internet. When we arrived my mind was blown. Situated high up in the hills you could see down over Beirut. It was magical. One of my favourite photographs from Domaine Du Compte is a simple landscape at sunset. It’s spectacular.
That’s it, writing over, words fail me with this wedding – now for some photos. Enjoy!