The day of the Valima ceremony dawned with excitement buzzing through every corner of the house. It was Irfan and Maryam's second wedding function—the Valima reception—a formal celebration hosted by the groom's family. The entire household was in a flurry of activity since early morning. Ayesha, with her usual grace and perfection, led the preparations. Alongside her was little Khadija, her daughter, who despite her young age, took her responsibilities as the "wedding helper" very seriously.
The venue chosen for the ceremony was a grand marriage hall, known for its luxurious interiors and spacious settings. The hall was beautifully divided into two sections—one for the VIP guests and one for general guests. The VIP section had a rich golden and cream color theme, adorned with fresh flower arrangements of roses and lilies. Each table had an elegant centerpiece with candles floating in glass bowls. A red carpet led directly to the stage, where the bride and groom were to be seated.
The general guest area was no less beautiful. Tables were covered in soft peach tablecloths, complemented by white and gold chair covers. Floral garlands hung from the walls, and fairy lights sparkled across the ceilings, giving the entire venue a dreamy aura.
The dining hall was an entirely different spectacle. The aroma of spices and sweets wafted through the air as caterers arranged the lavish spread. For general guests, the menu included beef biryani, chicken qorma, fresh salad trays, and for dessert, creamy kheer topped with nuts and silver leaf.
For the VIP guests, a separate elegant buffet had been arranged. It featured mutton pulao, boneless chicken handi, seekh kebabs, and a delightful dessert bar with fruit trifle, ras malai, and gulab jamun. Waiters in white gloves moved silently, attending to guests with courteous professionalism.
As evening approached, guests began to arrive—men in sharp suits and women in elegant embroidered dresses. Everyone had one goal: to give their heartfelt blessings and greet the newlyweds.
Meanwhile, Irfan and Maryam were in their bridal room at home, getting ready. Maryam wore a stunning pastel pink gown with silver embellishments, her makeup subtle yet glowing, her hair set in soft waves under a beautifully embroidered dupatta. Irfan wore a tailored navy-blue suit with a matching tie and a silver brooch that matched Maryam's dress.
"You look beautiful, Maryam," Irfan said, watching her adjust her bangles in the mirror.
Maryam smiled, her eyes sparkling, "And you look just perfect, my husband."
The couple soon arrived at the venue. A soft instrumental tune played in the background as they entered hand in hand, and the entire hall turned to look at them. Cameras flashed. Guests stood to greet them with claps and prayers. They made their way to the stage and sat gracefully on a velvet sofa adorned with floral arrangements.
The guests began to come up, one by one, to congratulate the couple. Elderly women whispered prayers into Maryam's ears and kissed her forehead. Family friends presented Irfan with envelopes and gifts, and children giggled while throwing rose petals in the air.
"May you both live a life full of love and light," said an elderly aunt, handing Maryam a wrapped box.
"Allah tum dono ko har khushi dey," said another family friend, shaking Irfan's hand warmly.
Maryam and Irfan sat on the stage, smiling, their hands gently touching. Their eyes met now and then, sharing secret glances and moments that only the two of them could understand.
In the corner, Ayesha and Imran observed the scene proudly.
"I still can't believe it, Imran," Ayesha whispered, holding his hand. "Look how far Maryam has come."
"Yes," Imran nodded, "And Irfan is glowing with happiness. I've never seen him this way before."
As the dinner was announced, guests made their way to the buffet areas. Laughter, clinking plates, and the fragrance of rich foods filled the air. Everyone was enjoying the food and praising the arrangements.
"This biryani is delicious!" a guest said to another.
"Have you tried the ras malai from the VIP section?" someone else added, "It's heavenly!"
After dinner, some guests took photos with the newlyweds on stage, while others left with gifts and smiles. By 11 PM, the event started to wind down. One by one, guests bid farewell, showering the couple with more blessings.
"Beta, always respect each other and never sleep over an argument," said a wise uncle.
"May Allah bless your union," another guest added.
Finally, with the hall nearly empty, Irfan stood and offered his arm to Maryam. She took it gracefully, and the two walked out of the hall, now husband and wife in every sense. The cool night air greeted them as they entered the car, headed back home, tired but deeply content.
As the car drove away, Maryam rested her head on Irfan's shoulder.
"It was beautiful," she said softly.
"Yes," Irfan kissed her forehead, "But it's only the beginning of our forever."
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