Pasadena-based Noor has recently been named by Wedding Spot, a website that networks wedding venues for the benefit of couples planning their nuptials, as a Best of 2017 recipient.
The selections, which are categorized by region (Noor being in Southern California), are based on popularity with the companies’ clients who use the website. Noor joins other locales such as the Grand in Long Beach and Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica.
“To be recognized for your work is always a huge honor,” said Robert Shahnazarian Jr., owner and operator of Noor. “We’re surrounded by these hundred-year-old brand names.”
Shahnazarian said among other things, he feels couples appreciate his company’s forwardness with pricing — all calculations include the various fees that come with everything.
“People appreciate it,” he said. “It’s risky in one sense, but we try to make it as clear as possible.”
Wedding Spot touted Noor for its elegant facilities that include majestic views of Pasadena City Hall and the San Gabriel Mountain range, located in historic Old Pasadena. Shahnazarian said he started his business around eight years ago, post-recession, and has produced 1,500-2,000 events with a staff of around 40 employees.
“It’s starting to make me think I have to open up another location,” he said on receiving the accolade.
Shahnazarian explained the name “Noor” has a double meaning — in Armenian, it means pomegranate, which represents the idea of fertility and abundance, whereas in Farsi, Arabic and Hindi, it translates as light or illumination.
“This is someone’s most important day, and it’s our job to bring the families together,” he said.
— Zane Hill
