TWO’S COMPANY, THREE’S A PARTY | MARIYAM & AMAAN’S FUN COUNTDOWN TO PARENTHOOD

“We’re just very excited to see what this new chapter has in store for us.” – Mariyam
Three years ago, Mariyam Nafees and Amaan Ahmed’s wedding was the kind of dreamy affair that had everyone swooning. Now, they’re stepping into an entirely new adventure—one that involves less aisle walks and more diaper runs! With a little one on the way, the couple is navigating this exciting chapter with their signature humor, warmth, and, let’s be honest, a bit of over-the-top baby shopping (Amaan, we’re looking at you!).
From quirky pregnancy quirks to their predictions on parenting styles, Mariyam and Amaan let us in on all the fun, the unexpected moments, and why their travel plans are definitely not hitting pause. Parenthood, here they come— unscripted, unfiltered, and totally ready (or so they think)!
“Enjoying popcorn while having a ‘Star Wars’ saga marathon.” – Amaan’s vision of their future as a family.
It’s been three years since your stunning wedding cover with us—what’s been the most unexpected adventure as a married couple so far?
Mariyam: Apart from all the crazy travel adventures, expecting this little bundle of joy is supremely exciting—not unexpected, though! (Laughs).
What’s the funniest or quirkiest thing you’ve learned about each other during this journey to becoming parents?
Mariyam: His insane possessiveness for the one who isn’t even here yet.
He wouldn’t even let me shine a light on my bump because he thinks it will bother him/her.
Babies come with their own set of “budgets.” Who do you think will be better at staying on track with shopping for baby essentials, and why?
Amaan: Her, of course.
Mariyam: Most definitely me! He’s a super spender.
Have you started thinking about what kind of parents you’ll be? Do you see yourselves as strict, chill, or somewhere in between?
Mariyam: I think we kind of know our roles— (Laughs). Mom will be the disciplinarian, and Dad will be the chill party.
If your baby could inherit just one trait from each of you, what would you hope it would be?
Amaan: My creativity and her empathy. Mariyam: My optimism and his personality.
What’s one moment during this pregnancy so far that you’ll treasure forever?
Mariyam: It’s so hard to pick just one. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my pregnancy, Alhamdulilah, and a huge credit for that goes to Amaan for being an absolute sweetheart. He has been accommodating and understanding beyond words.
If parenting was a role in a drama or a scene in a film, how would you two play your parts? Who’s more likely to steal the scene?
Mariyam: I could give it a try, but I think he would steal the scene—he’s absolutely amazing with kids.
What’s a piece of hilariously bad parenting advice you’ve received—or imagine you might hear—that made you laugh out loud?
Amaan: "Your globetrotting will come to a minimum." They clearly don’t know our parenting style.
Amaan, as a filmmaker, will we see your little one making cameos in future projects?
Amaan: If he/she passes the audition. (Wink)
Mariyam,what’s one piece of advice you’ve heard from other parents in the industry that has really stuck with you?
Mariyam: I’ve been mostly away, so I haven’t had a chance to have that detailed talk. But my friends say, “Enjoy every bit of motherhood, every age of your child, because time flies.” So, I totally plan on doing that, InshAllah.
What’s one thing you’re looking forward to doing as a family of three that you haven’t done before?
Mariyam: We’re just very excited to see what this new chapter has in store for us. Really looking forward to sharing our life with the little one, InshAllah.
If you could fast-forward five years, what’s a snapshot you’d love to see of your family’s life?
Amaan: Enjoying popcorn while having a ‘Star Wars’ saga marathon.
Mariyam: Us with our tiny family, spending a relaxed evening with his/her maternal and paternal grandparents.
Interview: Sundus Unsar Raja
Photography: RSB Mauritius