Charlotte & Kevin: a wedding at Palais Namaskar
Charlotte and Kevin brought their closest people together at Palais Namaskar in Marrakech for two days of celebration. A morning by the pool, henna and gifts in the late afternoon, then the wedding the following day: the setting stayed the same, while the mood changed with each gathering. These photographs follow the celebrations from the first dances to the final night.
In this story
A morning by the pool
The celebrations begin in daylight. Guests gather around the tables, glasses are raised, and the first dances bring everyone together. Charlotte and Kevin move between groups of friends. Between the moments of celebration, the arches, palms and reflections in the pool tell another part of that first morning at Palais Namaskar.
Henna, the amariya and gifts
By late afternoon, the outfits have changed and the musicians accompany the couple’s arrival. The amariya makes its way through the guests before everyone gathers around Charlotte and Kevin for the henna celebration. Trays, jewellery and outstretched hands fill the photographs. During the exchange of gifts, I kept coming back to the faces of the people closest to them.
Getting ready the following day
The following day begins in the rooms and gardens of the palace. The lace dress, shoes, rings and accessories are ready. Charlotte finishes getting dressed with her loved ones while Kevin makes the final adjustments to his outfit. There is time for a few group portraits and quieter moments before they leave for the ceremony.
The ceremony and a little time together
Guests take their seats beside the reflecting pools, facing white flowers and the long colonnades of Palais Namaskar. Charlotte’s arrival, hands coming together, the exchanges during the ceremony: I move between wide views and smaller gestures, including the reactions of those watching. After the embraces, we stay by the water for a few portraits. The arches and reflections frame the couple as they take a moment together.
Palais Namaskar after dark
The lights come on, the tables are set, and the palace takes on a different atmosphere. Live music sets the pace for the evening. On the dance floor, guests gather around Charlotte and Kevin, singing and dancing with them. The photographs follow the movement and faces in the crowd, with wider views that bring the setting back into the story. One final photograph of the palace closes the night.
Planning a wedding at Palais Namaskar or elsewhere in Marrakech? Tell me about your plans and the moments you want to remember. You can also explore my other Marrakech wedding stories to see different settings and celebrations.
