In an exclusive photoshoot and interview with HELLO! magazine, Saira Khan has marked a landmark moment in her life by becoming a South Asian bride.
It has been 18 years since Saira married her husband Steve Hyde, wearing a Western white meringue-style dress. Now, nearly two decades later, Saira, who is of Pakistani heritage, tells HELLO! how she finally feels ready to embrace her roots by trying on a selection of stunning traditional lehengas and jewellery.
"It's only now, as a 52-year-old mum of two, that I feel confident to reconnect with my heritage," explains Saira, who is mum to Zac, 14, and Amara, 11.
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"They've seen photos of Mummy in her white wedding dress, but now they’re seeing Mummy in a proper Asian outfit." Saira adds: "Having adopted Amara from Pakistan, I feel a duty to make sure that she can celebrate her Pakistani background through me. Now, she's going to have two images of a bride in her mind to draw from on her wedding day, and that’s very important."
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Of the reasons behind her desire to try on a selection of South Asian wedding gowns, Saira tells HELLO!: "I want to give my mum that photograph - it’s the best gift I can give her. She’s only ever worn Asian clothes; they are such a big part of her identity. She wore a red and gold outfit on her own wedding day."
The rose arch makes the perfect backdrop
Photographer: David Venni
In the interview, Saira opens up about the beginning of her relationship with Steve; her decision to wear white on their wedding day on 17 December 2004; and how something that happened to her as a child caused her to reject her Pakistani culture.
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"There was never a question or conversation about whether I was going to get married in Asian attire. It was the right thing for me to do at that stage," explains Saira.
"When I was 13, I was molested by my uncle in my parent’s home, and I think that was the moment where I rejected most of my culture and what it stood for."
Saira looks stunning in gold sequins
Photographer: David Venni
Continues Saira: "As I've got older and wiser, I've started understanding that what happened to me can – and does – happen to anyone, it's not just in my community… I’ve realised there are so many things to celebrate about my Pakistani heritage – the great music, fashion, people, food…"
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Saira also speaks of the profound impact HELLO!’s shoot has had on her: "I wish I'd done this sooner – these photos are everything I could’ve wanted. Today has really made me want to renew my vows, in full Asian clothes, and celebrate my culture with my whole family involved."
Photographer: David Venni
Creative Director & Wedding Planner: Anisha Vasani
Creates Decor and Set Design: 1SW Events
Make-up Artist: Fatin Hasado
Hair Stylist: Hair By Elsa
Location: www.hedsor.com
Bridal outfits by Bibi London
Jewellery by Anayah Jewellery
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