Welcome to Maharani Weddings

In the bustling heart of New York City's Lower East Side, a chance encounter at 212 Hisae's bar set the stage for a beautiful love story. Sreshta, fresh from a medical school interview, sought a night of dancing to unwind. Meanwhile, Niketh, amidst his demanding third year of medical studies, had a similar idea. Little did they know their paths were about to cross in a way that would change their lives forever. As Sreshta stepped into the lively bar atmosphere, her eyes met Niketh's, sparking an instant connection.

One date was enough for Sreshta to realize Niketh was "the one." It marked the end of her search for love, as she found her perfect match in him. The proposal was a tale straight out of a romantic novel. Sreshta had always dreamt of being proposed to in a red dress. Attentive to her dreams, Niketh orchestrated a series of dates, each requiring Sreshta to wear a different red dress he had thoughtfully purchased. The third date, set against Washington Square Park's Christmas tree backdrop during the holiday season, unfolded the surprise proposal.

The wedding planning journey was a collaborative effort between Sreshta & Niketh. They chose New Jersey for its large-capacity venues, settling on the stunning Legacy Castle. They wanted something more unique and rustic for the sangeet, leading them to the enchanting Pleasantdale Chateau. They enlisted the help of Chandai Events, a wedding planner recommended by mutual friends.

Sreshta's vision for her wedding attire was clear and color-coordinated. She envisioned herself in red for the ceremony, white for the reception, and green for the sangeet. Sreshta's hair and makeup were carefully chosen from Instagram inspirations, ensuring a unique look for each event with the help of Looks by Jassi.

Sreshta's mehndi, crafted by SamArtHenna, was a beautiful blend of personal motifs and traditional designs. It featured a classical dancer and cups of coffee on Sreshta's arm, symbolizing her interests, while Niketh's arm showcased a Master Chief logo and a basketball, representing his passions. The intricate design on her palms depicted a man spinning his bride, symbolizing their love.

This wedding, a blend of personal touches, thoughtful planning, and cultural richness, was not just a celebration of Sreshta & Niketh's love but a testament to their journey together. From their serendipitous meeting in a New York bar to their enchanting wedding day, their story is a beautiful reminder of the magic of love, fate, and perfect timing.

Congratulations Sreshta & Niketh!

How did you meet your Groom, and when did you know he was "the one"?
We met while out at a bar (212 Hisae's) in the Lower East Side of New York City. I was coming back from my first medical school interview and wanted to go dancing to blow off some steam, while my future groom (Niketh) was in the middle of his grueling third year of medical school, wanting to do the same. My friend and I saw the long entrance line and almost decided to turn away when my friend happened to see a Snapchat of another friend inside that bar. We reached out to that friend who helped us skip the long line and make it in! As I walked into the bar, Niketh and I made eye contact and felt an instant connection. As fate would have it, the very people who got us into the bar happened to be sitting right next to Niketh … and the rest is history. He asked me for my number that night, and we went on our first date 5 days later after texting each other consistent paragraphs daily. After our first date itself, I knew he was "the one" and that I would not be going on a first date ever again.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
I had always envisioned myself wearing a red dress when I got proposed to. So, in the weeks leading up to the proposal, Niketh bought me 5 different red dresses and planned various dates that I would wear these red dresses too - the idea being that I could wear my red dress while still being surprised. I thought this would go on for a while as I recycled these 5 different dresses on various dates, but it ended up being on "date" # 3, where he proposed to me in front of our closest friends and family in Washington Square Park, where we spent the late hours of our first date, in front of the Christmas tree during my favorite time of year (the holiday season)! It was perfect and followed by a party at a space nearby with a larger group of friends & family.

Tell us how you went about planning your wedding, and your overall experience with the Venues, Hair & Makeup, Outfits, Decor Theme, and all of the other important details.
My now-husband, who was incredibly involved, and I started from square one together. We decided we wanted a venue in New Jersey because they had some of the bigger capacities that would allow for our anticipated guest count. Once we found Legacy Castle, we booked it almost immediately, and there was nothing like it! Then, working backward, we wanted a sangeet venue in the area, but one that would be more unique & rustic, not just a banquet space. I stumbled upon Pleasantdale Chateau in a Google Maps search, and as soon as we visited with our family, we knew we had to book it. After we booked our venue, we booked our incredible wedding planner, Chandai Events, after hearing about her through several mutual friends. As for our outfits, I was very much into color coordination and certain color palettes; for some reason, I immediately pictured myself in red for the ceremony, white-ish for the reception, and green for the sangeet. My husband luckily agreed to match all those colors to my satisfaction! I also wanted to wear different types of outfits for each event, so although it took a long time, we ended with a saree for the ceremony, a gown for the reception, and a lehenga for the sangeet. For the hair and makeup, I again wanted different looks for all of the big events, so I spent a lot of months on everyone's favorite Instagram account to find looks that would be suitable for each of the events. I found my makeup artist early on, Looks by Jassi, and also followed her page to see which of her styles I liked the best. Finally, for the decor, my husband and I have different styles - I am more into elegance, and he likes extravagance. I think the decor ended up coming together beautifully to reflect each of our styles. For our sangeet, I came up with the disco theme because I really wanted it to be all about dancing, given my family background in dance. Partyland Sajawat, our decorators, really took it from there and brought elements of neon, disco balls, and other things to bring the theme to life. For the ceremony, we really just focused on having a romantic, classic floral vibe with no theme in particular. We wanted our mandapam to be grand but practical (so everyone could see the rituals!). Lastly, our reception theme came from our decorator; we called it a Celestial Theme. We wanted a navy blue to complement our beige/ivory outfits and just went with ivory florals and gold accents from there.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
I would say the first look with my (now) husband but from the Sangeet. We did a first look before our sangeet & before our ceremony, but the sangeet one replay in my mind the most because it was our first large wedding event, kicking off the wedding weekend, and it just felt so surreal that it was actually happening. It was a beautiful, sunny, surprisingly hot day in April, and I was just trying not to pass out from my heavy lehenga & the heat, but seeing Niketh on the first look just reminded me what it was all about.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Enjoy the process and time spent wedding planning - being engaged is a time with your groom that will never come back! And wedding planning, though stressful, can engage some of those fun/creative parts of you that you don't always get to use; you can make the wedding as unique as you want and reflective of you and your spouse as individuals and as a partnership.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
My mehndi was done by SamArtHenna, who incorporated all the motifs I wanted along with her signature, gorgeous designs. "My" arm had a classical dancer on it with cups of coffee, and my "groom's" arm had a Master Chief logo on it with a basketball - we felt this represented us each best individually. On the palms of my hands, we added a man spinning his bride around that you can see when the palms are together, a symbol that meant a lot to us, too. Ultimately, though, we didn't want it to be all motifs or too modern, and my Mehndi artist was able to make it look not too modern with some traditional, intricate henna detail as well!

House of Talent Studio, Looks by Jassi, Chandai Events and Monaco Experiences are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Reema & Sarit's love story began in the heart of Boston, where college dreams and youthful energy collide. Their first encounter at a house party through mutual friends marked the start of a journey that would lead them to a spectacular wedding celebration years later. Reema reminisces about Sarit's immediate enchantment and gradual evolution from casual conversations to a committed relationship. December 2016 marked the official beginning of their shared path, a prelude to their grand wedding planning.

Sarit's proposal in Cabo, a blend of suspense and romance, was as dramatic as it was heartfelt. Reema's intuition, fueled by Sarit's poorly kept secret and a serendipitous encounter with tequila shots, culminated in a sunset proposal by the water, setting the stage for their future together.

The couple's vision for their wedding was clear from the outset: a destination event in Miami, a beautiful and accessible locale. The Diplomat Beach Resort emerged as the ideal venue, offering the perfect backdrop for each of their traditional Indian wedding events. Reema's makeup artist choice was influenced by a previous family wedding, entrusting DolledupByLulu with her appearance. Her wedding look, a blend of neutral glam and personal style, stood out among the meticulously chosen looks for each event.

Her bridal lehenga, imbued with the warmth of burnt orange and customized through online collaborations with Kalki, was a testament to Reema's vision of a modern bride with traditional Indian roots. The process was a digital adventure, bridging continents and cultures to create her dream wedding attire. Reema's wedding jewelry, a customized creation from Paisley Pop-Up Shop, added a touch of elegance and personalization to her bridal ensemble. The set, complete with a necklace, tikka, and earrings, was crafted with professionalism and attention to detail, reflecting Reema's style and the grandeur of the occasion.

The culinary delights of Saffron and Khasiyat were unanimously celebrated by their guests. The couple's foodie hearts were content, from the masala gnocchi at the Welcome Night to the comforting plates after each event. A standout moment for Reema & Sarit was the release of flower petal canons as they left the mandap, a vivid memory of joy and celebration amid a flurry of red rose petals. The wedding festivities were a blend of unique themes and heartfelt moments. The tropical disco sangeet, brought to life by Suhaag Gardens, featured a dance floor surrounded by disco balls and string lights. Reema's outfit, a sequined white and pink floral lehenga by Seema Gujral, mirrored the event's vibrant energy.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
We met during our early college years in Boston! We went to neighboring universities and happened to met each other one night at a house party through mutual friends. For Sarit, it was love at first sight! After a couple years of talking and dating, we called it official in December 2016. And now 6 years later...here we are planning a wedding with the best team ever!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Sarit's complete inability of keeping a secret combined with my nosiness gave me the suspicion that our getaway to Cabo was going to be more than just a getaway. After accidentally pounding 7 tequila shots with my new-found bestie at the pool, Sarit officially cut me off because "he had a special night planned" and that's when I knew. He told me to "dress nice" and took me to a breathtaking dinner on the water and proposed to me during sunset.

Tell us how you went about planning your wedding, and your overall experience with the Venues, Hair & Makeup, Outfits, Decor Theme, and all of the other important details.
We started our wedding planning process knowing that we wanted to do a destination wedding to bring all our favorite people together in a warm and beautiful place. We ended up choosing the Miami area due to its convenience as a domestic destination and are so happy we did! We did some venue hunting online and flew down from Boston for a weekend to scope out a few favorites. Given a few considerations such as space, location, and availability - we ended up choosing the Diplomat Beach Resort. This stunning resort offers multiple spaces for the traditional multi-event Indian wedding, and we found the perfect spot for each of our events.

When starting the vendor search process, I knew right off the bat that I wanted a tried and true hair/makeup artist. I met DolledupByLulu when she worked my sister's wedding the year prior. I trusted Lulu with all my looks - she chose my look after I showed her my outfit and told her my basic preferences, and she nailed it every time. My favorite look was my wedding look - I loved the neutral glam that she gave me, it really felt true and authentic to my aesthetic.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
My wedding lehnga vision always included a traditional, rustic Indian look with elements of a modern bride, and as a Halloween baby, I've always been drawn to deep shades of orange - so I ended up opting for a burnt orange/rust color. Unfortunately, I did not get the chance to visit India for wedding shopping, but I searched far and wide on the Internet to finally stumble upon a beautifully crafted bridal lehnga from Kalki. I couldn't help myself, so I made some tweaks in the lehnga pattern and asked them to change the color to create my customized, wedding-day look. Kalki was such a pleasure to work with - the team is excellent at communicating, and we were constantly in touch via Whatsapp. The late-night Whatsapp video calls and messages provided me constant updates until my lehnga was ready to be shipped to me.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Spending quality time with each other and our families was the absolute best part of the planning process. We were at our parents' house nearly every weekend for the months leading up to the big week - whether it was detail planning, dance practices, or outfit and jewelry trials. While we may not have been entirely appreciative during the process, we sure do miss it.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
The one compliment we've heard from all our guests regardless of age, relationship to us, or where they came from was about the food. Saffron and Khasiyat caterers absolutely killed the catering service. Variety of selections, taste, presentation, and service were all top-tier and this was a vendor we have absolutely zero regrets about. Most noted dish from our guests was their masala gnocchi that was served during out Welcome Night, which had an Indian-Italian fusion menu. I remember sitting with Sarit in my suite after nearly every event with full plates (thank you Eventrics team!!!) of the most delicious and comforting foods that every bride and groom deserve. As big foodies, safe to say we were happy!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
The moment when the flower petal canons went off (this was a surprise to us) while we were leaving the mandap is on a constant loop! It was unreal seeing our favorite people through the flurry of red rose petals right after we got married.

For events other than your ceremony, please tell us as much as you would like about the decor, style, dances, and all the special details.
A vision that truly came to life was our tropical disco sangeet. One of the first things we knew about our wedding was that we wanted this theme for the sangeet. We wanted it to be in the tropical outdoors, surrounded by disco balls, string lights, and all our favorite people. Suhaag Gardens worked incredibly hard to help us bring this idea to life from figuring out how to hang these little disco balls on the string lights to mounting a tropical foliage backdrop to creating a dancefloor as large as possible in a tight space. Through many hours of long and often heated discussions with our families about the concept, we ultimately proceeded and we are all so happy we did!

For my outfit, I chose what I thought was the perfect Seema Gujral lehnga to embody this "tropical disco" theme. It was a super lightweight, but fully sequined white and pink floral lehnga. I was so comfortable while dancing the entire night.

The evening of our wedding, we hosted a cruise up and down the Intercoastal Waterway of Miami and had the best time partying with all our people. Some people described the top floor of the yacht as a club - everyone was just dancing and having a good time. I wore a white fringe Nadine Merabi mini-dress and my husband was in a light green linen suit.

Finally - our reception felt like a real dream come true. Even through the exhaustion of the week, we found the energy to party one last night with our people thanks to all our amazing vendors. Suhaag did it again with these stunning threaded chandeliers that they mounted in a ceiling treatment. The entire ballroom was illuminated by the light glimmering off these curtains and I don't think we'll ever forget the feeling of dancing under that with all our family and friends. We cried and we laughed during speeches and during the sweetest father-daughter and mother-son dance moments. It was truly an unforgettable night!

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
My wedding day jewelry was from Paisley Pop-Up Shop. They did an absolutely amazing job creating a customized set for me. They helped me design the perfect necklace and found me a matching tikka and earrings. They were very professional and prompt and kept me updated with sketches and photos.

Eventrics Weddings, Pavan Events, Diego Stuart Films and The Diplomat Beach Resort are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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In the enchanting world of South Asian weddings, every love story blooms with its unique magic, and the journey of Saneet & Rajbir is no different. Their tale is a vivid tapestry woven with dreams, traditions, and heartfelt moments, beginning with a proposal that sets the bar for fairytales. Rajbir's surprise, orchestrated by Lux Affairs, was a spectacle of magical lights, heart balloons, and red roses, igniting their journey with the Lux Affairs team for the entire wedding process.

Saneet's bridal attire selection was a journey in itself. Dreaming of a traditional bright red bridal lengha, she initially planned to travel to India for the perfect dress. However, the pandemic altered her plans, leading her to collaborate virtually with the Manish Malhotra team. The result was a stunning outfit that fit perfectly despite the distance and digital measurements. This successful collaboration extended to her other wedding week outfits, all crafted by the same designer.

The planning process was a joyous adventure for Saneet. With the Lux Affairs team by her side, she turned her wedding visions into reality. Each element was carefully crafted into unique experiences for each event, from the emotions she wished to evoke to the outfits she adored. The execution left her in constant awe as her dreams materialized before her eyes.

The wedding's charm was further enhanced by Saneet's choice of jewelry, a blend of traditional and sentimental. She selected pieces from Hi-Class Jewellers in Vancouver, a nod to her mother's wedding jewelry choices over three decades ago, and from Sabyasachi. These pieces were adornments for the day and heirlooms for future generations.

The venue, Chateau de L'Amour in Oregon, was a picturesque setting that mirrored the couple's love for the state's natural beauty. As the first South Asian wedding at this location, they introduced the vibrancy of Indian weddings to Oregon.

In essence, Saneet & Rajbir's wedding was a celebration that transcended cultures and traditions, blending their personal love story with the elegance of South Asian customs. It was a testament to the power of love, adaptation, and the beauty of embracing one's roots while making new beginnings.

Congratulations to Saneet & Rajbir!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
We chose to work with Lux Affair throughout our whole wedding journey after Rajbir surprised me with my dream proposal.  It was the proposal of my dreams, complete with the perfect setup of magical lights, heart balloons, and red roses too! This was when our relationship with the Lux Affairs team began, and we worked with them throughout our whole pre-wedding and wedding journey.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
It has always been my dream to wear a traditional bright red bridal lengha. I was initially hoping to make a special trip to India so I could pick the perfect dress; however, I was unable to do so due to the pandemic. Working with the Manish Malhotra team virtually to get my dream bridal outfit ended up being the best decision for me. My wedding outfit was everything I had dreamed of and even though I gave my measurements via Facetime it fit like a glove. I enjoyed working with MM so much that I ordered the majority of my wedding week outfits from this designer!

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part of the wedding planning process was getting to create everything about my wedding vision from scratch with the help of the amazing Lux Affairs team. I mostly had feelings I wanted to evoke and outfits I loved. From there, we went about creating memorable unique experiences for each event. The level of execution was on point and I was always in awe of how Lux Affairs brought my visions to life.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
To this day, our guests still tell us how unique and refreshing our wedding was. It was secluded, which made it intimate. although each day was in the same space, it felt anything but. Each day was a completely different set-up by Lux Affairs. It felt as though we were in a different venue each day.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Yes, the moment I walked into the breathtaking wedding venue setup with all the gorgeous florals and saw Rajbir looking back at me. It was a dream I had dreamt for so many years, and it was finally coming true. I could not have asked for a more beautiful wedding. I could not have asked for a more perfect life partner, and I knew by the way he looked at me that he felt the very same. We had many miles between us because I lived in Oregon and Rajbir lived in Vancouver Canada but he made the sacrifice to move for me, which is not traditional. He did this so that we could be together and I didn't have to leave my home. This was the special moment that always replays in my mind. The moment all of my dreams came true.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
I picked the majority of my jewelry from Hi-Class Jewellers in Vancouver BC because my mom also bought all of her own wedding jewelry from there when she got married over 30 years prior. I thought it was quite beautiful that the store and same owner was still there making beautiful bridal pieces. I also bought some pieces from Sabyasachi. I chose traditional pieces that I could pass on to my future daughter.

The venue was Chateau de L'Amour, a romantic wedding venue in Oregon that is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges and awe inspiring views. We chose it because we wanted our out-of-town guests to enjoy why we fell in love with living in Oregon. This was the first South Asian wedding at this venue, so we had some fun bringing an epic indian wedding to Oregon.

I really wanted my Henna to tell my love story. I wanted whoever looked at my hands to see how our beautiful happily ever after came to be. I chose Henna by Tulsi because she is a true artist. Her attention to detail shows how passionate she is about her skills, and she was able to put the important milestones of our love story on my hands.

Mansi & Sahil's journey to matrimony is a modern love tale, blossoming from Hinge's digital realms to Long Island City's heartwarming lanes. It wasn't an instant spark for Mansi, who, tired from the online dating carousel, almost didn't give Sahil a second chance. However, his persistence and the allure of his warm, humorous personality gradually drew her in. Their love story is a mosaic of small, precious moments, culminating in a declaration of love amid the beats of a Diplo concert in Brooklyn.

Their proposal story is refreshingly simple yet profoundly intimate. Sahil chose their home for the grand question, surprising Mansi in her most comfortable state - sweatpants, fuzzy slippers, and all. This unpretentious, genuine moment perfectly encapsulates the essence of their relationship.

Mansi's bridal lehenga is a tale of patience, persistence, and personal touch. Despite the dazzling array of options in Bombay, none matched her vision. With the help of her designer, Ami Aunty, she created a lehenga that defied traditional expectations, opting for a unique color and design over the conventional red and sequins.

The wedding planning process was a joint adventure for Mansi & Sahil, making decisions together and involving themselves in every detail. This collaborative effort brought them closer and ensured their personalities shone through every aspect of the celebration.

A standout moment was their reception entrance, where they seized CO2 guns, turning the dance floor into a scene of exhilarating fun. This moment of pure joy and the sight of their loved ones celebrating together is a cherished memory that replays in their minds. Their event decor was a blend of traditional and unique themes. From a nighttime mela theme at the Sangeet, complete with nostalgic decor and an Ice Gola vendor, to an icy-blue, mirror-and-silver toned reception, the settings were a perfect backdrop for the festivities, dance, and laughter.

Mansi & Sahil's story is a reminder to stay true to oneself. Every decision reflected their authentic selves, from choosing a wedding venue that aligned with their dream of an outdoor wedding to opting for custom jewelry. Their journey is a celebration of love, a blend of modernity and tradition, and, above all, a reflection of their unique bond.

Congratulations Mansi & Sahil!

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
Like many modern love stories, ours began on Hinge. By the time we met, I was truthfully a little worn out from online dating and was ready to swear off the apps yet again. Sahil and I met up for a cup of coffee on a rainy Sunday in Long Island City. I thought he was nice, but I was so checked out of dating that I didn't think it was going to go anywhere. But he was persistent that we meet up again, so we went on a second date and a third date, and so the story goes. We are very different people, so it took me a while to get there, but ultimately, his kind personality, his warmth, and his humor took me in. I don't think I've ever felt so safe with another person, and I just realized that I loved being loved by him. I don't think there was a moment; it was a combination of a lot of small moments that made me fall in love with him! I told him I loved him for the first time at a Diplo concert at the Brooklyn Mirage because I knew at that moment that he was the person I wanted to keep having fun with for the rest of my life!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
I didn't have many requests for a proposal, just that it be a surprise. I didn't really care if my hair or nails were done or what I was wearing. I just wanted it to be a moment that took me by surprise, which was a big ask in itself because I am very difficult to surprise, and I already knew it was coming at some point because we had gone ring shopping together.

So on to the Proposal...
Sahil proposed in the most special place, our home. I did not make it easy for him (oil in my hair for most of the morning, to say the least). But ultimately, we got engaged with me wearing sweatpants fuzzy slippers and wet hair, and I could not have been happier in that moment.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I went to India about 6 months before the wedding! I had a general sense of what I wanted, but my mom (aka my expert personal shopper) wanted me to have all the options. For one day of my 7-day trip, we went to what felt like every designer in Bombay. I tried dozens of outfits on and picked out bits and pieces of some that I liked. Ultimately, nothing I saw in person really fit the bill for what I had envisioned, as I am not really a sequins and glitter kind of person, especially for the ceremony. So instead, I worked with my amazing personal designer, Ami aunty, and I told her exactly what I wanted. We picked out the exact fabric color after spending hours in the fabric store and she hand dyed the fabric I wanted, and she then sent over swatches of the design each step along the way. It was a very involved process, but ultimately, I ended up with this gorgeous lehenga that was the perfect color and design I wanted. I could not have been happier. I'm glad I ignored the multiple designers who told me I wouldn't look "bridal enough" if I didn't wear red or have sequins covering my skirt:)

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
That Sahil and I did it together. While we checked in with our parents on certain things (especially catering!), he and I sat down with each vendor and ultimately decided who we wanted to go with and the vision we wanted. A huge thanks goes out to our parents for giving us the space to plan ourselves, but we had so much fun knowing that we made those decisions together. Seeing him genuinely interested and bringing up opinions made it more enjoyable than if I had just been doing it solo. I had a true partner in crime, and that made what is a tedious and exhausting process so much more personal, and it really brought us together even more as a couple.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
I think they loved all of the personal touches. It was very important to Sahil and me that our family and friends felt how loved and important to us they were. Sahil and I hand wrote personal thank you notes for each guest at our reception, which was something everyone said they loved. Another comment was how intimate everything felt, even with 300 guests. That was so heartwarming to hear because everything we planned was keeping that in mind. So it was really great to know that while we obviously felt an outpouring of love towards us, our guests felt warm and loved as well!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
When we took the CO2 guns at our reception and blasted them onto the dance floor! I have never felt more like a rock star! Our dance floor was PACKED the entire night, and Sahil and I talked about how there were multiple moments when we were dancing on the stage and just stopped to take it all in. Watching our friends and family all in one room, having a blast, and just enjoying themselves all out was overwhelming in the best way. At that moment, we were full of gratitude and excitement that we had just thrown the party of our dreams, and it was playing out in real life better than we could have ever imagined!

For events other than your ceremony, please tell us as much as you would like about the decor, style, dances, and all the special details.
We knew that we wanted to have fun with the decor! For the sangeet, we've seen a lot of mela themes, and while I thought that was always fun, it felt like everyone was doing that. So our amazing decorator, Hasina, came up with a nighttime mela theme, with darker shades and table decor with old-school Fanta and Thums Up bottles and little rickshaw carts. We even had an Ice Gola vendor, which was so much fun! The warmer colors also made the huge room feel more intimate. The best part was all of the dances! Seeing how much work our friends and family had put into learning and practicing all the dances was heartwarming, and it was so much fun seeing people who never dance get on the dancefloor, just for us! I am still shocked that some of my uncles not only got up there but that they had actually learned the dance!

For our reception, I had this vision of an icy blue room with mirrors and silver tones. Our stage was covered in hand painted baby's breath and Hasina used a mix of mirrors, glass, and lots of candles to create a stunning visual for our reception room. She especially outdid herself with extraordinarily decorated Estate tables! With MVPDjs providing the perfect lighting and room wash, we loved how it all turned out!

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
PICK YOUR BATTLES! Even though it is your day, it is likely your families are going to have some things they envision as being part of your wedding weekend. Before you even begin planning, make a list of your non-negotiables for yourself, for you and your partner, and have your parents individually do the same. Then, have a conversation about those non-negotiables and level set of expectations. That made it SO much easier for us because we knew there were some things we had to include as we planned, and our parents knew there were some things they wanted that we were just not going to be doing (for us, it was some of the more traditional aspects that we chose to exclude). Sahil and I made the majority of the decisions by ourselves, so having had that conversation at the onset with our parents helped prevent any surprises as we got closer to the big day! I found that giving in on some of my "lower-care" items built a lot of goodwill between me and my in-laws. Sometimes, it's not about "giving in" but about thinking ahead and knowing that some compromise early on will pay dividends in the future. But remember, you don't have to give in to anything that sacrifices your mental peace or is something that is very important to you.

Second, just have FUN! Sahil and I had the more extraordinary team around us for the wedding weekend, so all we had to do was show up, eat/drink, and have the best time. I thought I would be worried about how things were going, but I found that when I let myself just exist in the moment, it was so much fun. Trust your vendors and hire a wedding planner (seriously!!), if it's in your budget. You won't remember what color your centerpieces were, but you will always remember how you felt surrounded by the people you love!

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
Overall, do what feels authentic to you. We didn't want to cut a cake as part of the program, so we got one but cut it privately during our reception photos. I wanted custom jewelry that was heavy for my ceremony but I could rewear in the future, so that's what I did. We wanted an outdoor wedding, so we looked at dozens of venues until we found the perfect one. This is YOUR weekend, and while it's easy to get caught up in the details, always go back to who you are and what feels right for you and your partner, and decisions will be a lot easier to make!

Chand Palace and Abhi Sarkar Photography are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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For more information on how Platinum Guide members are chosen, click here.

In the heart of Boca Raton, under the Florida sun, Sue & Andrew’s wedding unfolded like a beautiful tale of cultural harmony and shared passions. Their love story, rooted in a mutual fondness for beer and travel, blossomed into a remarkable fusion of Indian and Western traditions, culminating in a vibrant and heartfelt celebration.

Their journey began in Houston, where they met as colleagues at Anheuser Busch. Over shared beers and common interests, what started as a casual drink after work soon transformed into a deep connection. Their relationship grew alongside their numerous adventures and moves, cementing their bond in shared experiences and values despite their diverse cultural backgrounds.

Planning their wedding amidst a move from St. Louis to New Jersey, Sue & Andrew entrusted Gina Marie Wedding & Event Planner, with the intricate details of their destination wedding. This decision allowed them to focus on their new beginnings while their wedding planner flawlessly executed their vision. The selection of the venue, decor, and all the minute details were meticulously chosen to reflect their unique story and love for tropical beauty.

Sue’s bridal lengha, a striking ensemble from Shyamal and Bhumika, mirrored the lush landscapes of South Florida. The dark emerald green skirt adorned with bright florals was a nod to Andrew's childhood memories and the vibrant natural surroundings. Finding the perfect piece in an unconventional color was a challenge, but it paid off, beautifully encapsulating the essence of their union.

The seamless blend of cultures enamored the guests. They experienced the vibrancy of a traditional Hindu wedding and the relaxed ambiance of a Western reception. The outdoor venue, adorned with majestic banyan trees, created an intimate and inviting atmosphere, allowing the guests to feel deeply connected to every moment of the ceremony.

A poignant memory for Sue was her walk down the aisle, flanked by her brothers. As she approached the Mandap, the emotional bond with Andrew was palpable, even through the cloth that momentarily veiled their view. This moment, filled with overwhelming love and joy from their families and friends, remains etched in her heart as a testament to their beautiful, blended journey.

Congratulations Sue & Andrew!

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
Andrew and I met at work 7 years ago in Houston, TX. We worked together closely for about 3 years before I finally built up the courage to ask him to grab a drink after work. What was initially just two co-workers sharing a beer formed into the beginning of our love story? From that moment, we both knew that there was something special worth exploring. Our relationship was bound by our shared love of traveling, eating, and beer (which is the industry we work in). Although we were raised in different cultures, our family values were the same, and our biggest differences were actually our biggest similarities. Now 7 years later we are happily married and excited to see where our journey will go!

Tell us how you went about planning your wedding, and your overall experience with the Venues, Hair & Makeup, Outfits, Decor Theme, and all of the other important details.
Andrew and I were in the middle of moving from St. Louis to New Jersey in the midst of our wedding planning and knew that we needed a planner that could help us plan our destination wedding. After several phone calls, it was clear that Gina and her team would not only help bring our vision to life but also stay organized and on top of all of the planning while we focused on moving and starting our new jobs. Our wedding planner made the experience smooth, and we could not have pulled the event off without her! It was a blast traveling down to Florida to pick out the venue, finalize the decor, and do the hair and makeup trials!

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I knew I wanted to do a tropical wedding that incorporated the natural beauty of South Florida. I wanted to bring elements from my Husband's childhood home, like the palm trees and bright flowers growing in the backyard. This was also my inspiration for my wedding lengha, which is why I went with a dark emerald green skirt and bright pink, orange, and gold flowers. It was a little difficult finding the right lengha since green isn't the most popular color, but I'm so happy I found the perfect piece at Shyamal and Bhumika. Their customer service and customization options made it easy to mix and match elements to create the perfect look for the wedding ceremony.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Our guests loved that we truly combined both cultures in our wedding festivities. Andrew's family was able to experience the excitement of a mehndi and haldi event followed by the traditional Hindu wedding, while my family got to experience an elevated backyard barbecue-style event welcoming everyone the night before. During the wedding ceremony, our guests loved our airy outdoor venue and the beautiful banyan trees that shaded the courtyard. We wanted the guests to feel like they were truly a part of our wedding ceremony by engaging and involving everyone in the process.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
The one moment that sticks out to me the most was when I was walking down the aisle with my brothers. Although I couldn’t see Andrew at the moment, I could feel the connection between us when I was walking to the Mandap. I was completely overcome with emotion and could see my parents, my in-laws, and my new brothers-in-law tearing up as they were holding the cloth that separated the two of us. I felt the love, joy, and emotion of our friends and family that came out to celebrate our marriage.

Pavan Events, Vanessa and Johnny Photography and Films and Farahs Mehndi are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

Pavan Events VIEW PORTFOLIO

Vanessa and Johnny Photography and Films VIEW PORTFOLIO

Farahs Mehndi VIEW PORTFOLIO

For more information on how Platinum Guide members are chosen, click here.