In a historic wedding that marked the union of Naomi Biden, the granddaughter of the sitting US President Joe Biden, and Peter Neal, an Arab designer added a touch of elegance to the bride’s special day. The exclusive photos, shared with Vogue, unveiled the pivotal role played by Lebanese designer Reem Acra in shaping the bride’s wedding reception look. While Naomi exchanged vows with Peter Neal in a Grace Kelly-inspired wedding gown by American brand Ralph Lauren, her reception ensemble featured a sleek gown from Reem Acra’s eponymous label.The reception gown, a creation of Beirut-born designer Reem Acra, was crafted from ivory Mikado silk, characterized by a delicate strapless neckline. However, what made this gown particularly unique was the incorporation of pearls that once belonged to Biden’s grandmother, Roberta Buhle. These pearls were meticulously sewn into the gown’s sweeping six-foot train, infusing sentimental value into the attire. To complement the gown, Naomi Biden adorned herself with pearl jewelry and sheer gloves, exuding timeless elegance and sophistication.Reem Acra’s artistry extended beyond Naomi Biden’s attire.
First Lady Jill Biden, who played a central role in the wedding festivities, chose Reem Acra as her designer of choice for two distinct moments on this momentous day. For the ceremony, she donned a custom couture silk chiffon vintage blue dress, paired with a teal wool crepe coat. Later in the evening, for the black-tie reception, she opted for a gold-embroidered seafoam blue dress. These choices reflected Acra’s ability to craft ensembles that balance style, grace, and significance, perfectly complementing the grandeur of the White House setting.Naomi Biden, the daughter of Hunter Biden, President Joe Biden’s younger son, and his former wife, Kathleen Buhle, is an associate at the DC law firm Arnold & Porter. Her journey to this historic wedding began when she met Peter Neal in 2018, thanks to a mutual friend’s introduction.
Their love story eventually led to a September 2021 engagement and the recent celebration at the White House.Reem Acra, a distinguished fashion designer of Lebanese descent, embarked on her bridal journey in 1997, expanding her repertoire to include ready-to-wear collections in 2003. Over the years, she has gained recognition for her ethereal and dreamy designs, which have graced numerous red carpets and adorned renowned personalities such as Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Angelina Jolie, among others. Acra’s ability to infuse sophistication, luxury, and a hint of sentiment into her creations aligns seamlessly with the essence of Naomi Biden’s wedding.In the context of a White House wedding, where every detail is infused with historical significance, Reem Acra’s contribution becomes more than just fashion.
It is a testament to the enduring connection between fashion and personal narratives, a fusion of contemporary elegance and sentimental value that captures the spirit of the moment.As Naomi Biden’s wedding enters the annals of White House history, Reem Acra’s role as an Arab designer in shaping this memorable occasion reinforces the notion that fashion is a language that transcends boundaries and speaks to the heart. The incorporation of pearls with a rich family history into the bridal gown serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of tradition, making this wedding a celebration of love, heritage, and the artistry of Reem Acra.
