Qawwali Night: A Pre-Wedding Celebration Full of Mood and Meaning

When we were asked to design a Qawwali night as part of a couple’s pre-wedding festivities, we knew we had a beautiful opportunity to honor an experience steeped in culture, emotion, and music.

Qawwali, a form of Sufi devotional music, carries a deep spiritual resonance. Unlike other pre-wedding events that are built around high-energy dancing or formal traditions, this night called for something more grounded and more intimate. See our Instagram post about the Qawwali!

Designing the Mood

To create a space that matched the depth of the evening, we leaned into moody design elements.

While it’s uncommon to see black used in wedding décor, we chose it intentionally to help our vibrant florals sing. Think magenta, deep plum, and saffron gold, all popping beautifully against a dark backdrop.

The overall palette created a sense of drama and elegance, making the event feel both unexpected and deeply intentional.

Layout with Purpose

Because this event centered around live Qawwali performers, the layout was everything. We prioritized the stage, ensuring it felt integrated into the space. Soft, draped fabric framed the performance area, and clusters of lanterns glowed warmly around it. We also incorporated lounge-style seating, allowing guests to relax, connect, and fully immerse themselves in the music.

Honoring the Energy of the Night

There’s something incredibly special about a Qawwali night. It’s devotional, it’s emotional, and it invites a different kind of connection than a typical party. Our job as event designers was to reflect that energy in the environment, without losing the joy and color that’s so intrinsic to South Asian wedding decor and celebrations.

This event reminded us how meaningful it is to design with intention. To let the music, the culture, and the couple’s story guide the process.

Would You Host a Qawwali Night?

Whether you're planning a multi-day wedding or a one-night celebration, think about how your events can tell your story. A Qawwali night is a beautiful way to bring people together, not just to celebrate, but to feel something deeper.

We’d love to help you design it. Reach out to start dreaming up your event!

Vendors:

Decor & Design: Afrin Designs - Venue: Holiday Inn Skokie - Event Planner / Coordinator: Eventful Moments By Alina - Henna Artist: Muzna Sooria - Makeup Artist & Hair: Rimsha Khan - DJ & Entertainment: DJ Mirza Baig - Caterer: Usmania Chicago - Photography & Videography: Visual Artistry Coffee Cart: Nood Coffee