Welcome to Maharani Weddings

When history, heart, and high fashion collide, you get Jasmeen & Navid's epic destination wedding in Antigua, Guatemala. With the city's cobblestone charm, a 16th-century convent as a backdrop, and a couple who redefined style, this wedding didn't just check all the boxes—it tore up the checklist and wrote its rulebook. Let's start with the setting: Pensativo House and Ruinas de Santa Clara, two beautiful locations practically demanding their passport stamp. These venues gave the celebration a cinematic quality—think "Bridgerton meets Bollywood," but with a better playlist.

Planning such a grand affair from afar isn't for the faint of heart, but Bride & Groom Guatemala handled it with grace and precision. Jasmeen knew early on that she didn't want Pinterest-perfect ballroom vibes. Instead, she leaned into the old-world charm of the convent and curated everything—from the florals to the fashion—with intention. "I had to be thoughtful about what would work with the venue," she shared. The result? A wedding that felt effortlessly luxe, deeply personal, and undeniably her.

Held in the majestic Ruinas de Santa Clara, Jasmeen & Navid's ceremony felt like stepping into another world. As light filtered through the ancient stone arches, the couple exchanged vows surrounded by love, laughter, and the unmistakable hum of excitement. The elegance of the decor by Addy Florales blended seamlessly into the rustic textures of the ruins, creating a timeless atmosphere that had guests (and us!) swooning. The party kicked off in high gear with live music from Clasico Instrumental, signature cocktails from 2Onzas Mixology, and a feast by Porta Hotel Antigua, still watering our mouths. But the real showstopper? Jasmeen's transition into a jaw-dropping red bridal lengha that sparkled under ambient lighting by Erick Trujillo Lighting and Ambience Events GT. As the couple exited their grand sparkler, guests were cheering—and possibly crying—into their champagne.

This unforgettable wedding wouldn't be the same without Manuel Aldana's jaw-dropping lens work. From soft-lit moments in historic corridors to vibrant, joy-filled baraat energy, every image tells a story. Aldana didn't just photograph a wedding—he documented a feeling. His cinematic style and masterful use of Guatemala's natural light gave each shot the grandeur it deserved. Simply put, this gallery is a frame-by-frame of pure art.

DLux Mobiliario Rentals and Relaxed Lounge Service provides chic, comfortable lounges for stylish guests to sip and mingle. At the same time, custom stationery by Piñacolada GT and Matiz Papel y Color gave every detail a polished touch. And let's not forget the stunning cake and desserts from Arte de Pastel—equal parts beautiful and delicious.

“The best part of wedding planning? When it was over! But in all seriousness, prioritize what really matters to you and your partner. Guests won’t notice every detail, but they’ll remember how they felt. Pause during your big day, soak it in, and enjoy every second.”

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.
It’s all about making choices—outfits, decor, flowers—that complement the venue and its atmosphere. So much inspiration online is geared toward ballroom weddings, but since my venue was a 16th-century convent, I had to be intentional about selecting decor, florals, and ceremony/wedding dresses that fit the setting.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I sent my sister to India to validate some of the things I'd seen online + gave her some free reign to make choices on her own. Balancing work during the day and staying up all night on FaceTime with her while she was out shopping in India wasn’t exactly fun, but she pulled it off!

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
When it was over. It freed up so much time in my schedule. We do miss it.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Prioritize what truly matters to you and your partner as you plan your wedding—those are the details that will make the day meaningful. It’s easy to get caught up in the stress of planning, but keep in mind that your guests are there to celebrate with you, not to notice every little detail. And when the big day arrives, take a moment to pause, look around, and appreciate having all your loved ones in one place, sharing in your joy. Savor every second!

This celebration captivated us with its blend of timeless charm and modern flair.

For couples seeking a luxurious yet serene destination for their South Asian wedding, Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa in Carlsbad, California, offers an unforgettable experience. Nestled in the scenic San Diego coastline, this stunning resort seamlessly blends sophistication, natural beauty, and world-class hospitality—perfect for a grand celebration.

Situated amidst 250 acres in Carlsbad, California, Park Hyatt Aviara is perched atop a high ridge on the shore of Batiquitos Lagoon, offering breathtaking views of the foothills and Pacific Ocean. This AAA Five-Diamond property boasts unparalleled luxury and exceptional service, featuring an award-winning Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara, the Arnold Palmer-designed Aviara Golf Club, state-of-the-art racquet facilities, and multiple top-tier dining venues for every occasion. The resort caters to both adult and family-friendly experiences, with newly enhanced spaces following a recently completed $60+ million-dollar renovation.

Park Hyatt Aviara stands out as a premier coastal wedding venue in San Diego, offering an elegant blend of coastal charm and luxury. Nestled amid lush gardens and overlooking the Batiquitos Lagoon, the resort provides breathtaking backdrops for both intimate and grand celebrations.

Whether you envision a lavish multi-day wedding or a charming intimate gathering, Park Hyatt Aviara offers 78,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event spaces, setting the stage for every cherished wedding ritual. With a dedicated team of wedding specialists, breathtaking venues, and endless opportunities for luxury and relaxation, this resort is where your South Asian wedding dreams come to life.

From sunlit outdoor terraces to elegant ballrooms, Park Hyatt Aviara provides a diverse selection of venues tailored to your wedding vision.

Enchanting Outdoor Venues

For couples who dream of an open-air mandap or a reception under the stars, the resort’s outdoor spaces provide an exquisite natural setting:

• The Gardens: Overlooking the views of the Pacific Coast, this scenic lawn is perfect for a romantic wedding ceremony or grand reception.
  

• Palm Court: Framed by lush palm trees, this intimate garden venue is ideal for a mehndi celebration or an elegant cocktail hour.

• Avalon Terrace: A modern yet charming terrace space, offering sweeping views and a relaxed setting for an unforgettable wedding event.

Elegant Indoor Venues

For a more sophisticated indoor celebration, the resort boasts grand ballrooms with impeccable design and timeless elegance:

• Grand Ballroom: Spanning nearly 12,000 sq. ft., this opulent space features soaring ceilings, glittering crystal chandeliers, and a layout that’s fully customizable to fit your wedding vision—whether it's a lavish reception or a vibrant sangeet night.

• Avalon Ballroom: A chic and contemporary indoor venue offering nearly 4,000 sq. ft. of versatile space—perfect for a colorful haldi ceremony or a spirited pre-wedding celebration. It also features a connected walkout terrace, adding a breezy, open-air element to your festivities.

With customizable layouts and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, the resort ensures that every wedding event is executed with grandeur and precision.

Under the expert leadership of Executive Chef Pierre Albaladejo, whose extensive culinary experience spans some of the world’s most renowned kitchens, the resort’s exceptional banquet and catering team crafts exquisite, customized menus that transform every wedding into a gourmet experience. From elegantly plated dinners to lavish buffets, each dish is prepared with the finest ingredients and impeccable attention to detail, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience for couples and their guests.

A South Asian wedding isn’t just about the couple—it’s about celebrating with family and friends. At Park Hyatt Aviara, your guests will enjoy a luxury resort experience with a variety of world-class amenities, including the tranquil Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara and the championship Arnold Palmer-designed golf course.

Their expert wedding specialists work closely with couples to ensure every detail—from intricate mandap setups to authentic Indian cuisine—is carefully curated. With attention to cultural traditions and unmatched hospitality, Park Hyatt Aviara ensures your wedding is not only luxurious but also deeply personal and meaningful.

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Justine & Jeet's celebration is wedding goals—check out the Platinum Guide Blog to see why.

Their fusion celebration will inspire couples everywhere to embrace both tradition and individuality.

M4U Events and Iryna Shostak 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.

Maharani Harmeet & Jason brought Indian grandeur to the shores of Italy in the most magical way. Their Lake Como wedding celebrated love, culture, and picture-perfect romance. From the first steps of the baraat to the last dance under sparkling chandeliers, each moment felt like it belonged in a Bollywood-meets-Vogue editorial. But let's start at the top. The festivities kicked off at the lush Sheraton Lake Como, where guests were welcomed into a vibrant garden Haldi celebration under orange-dotted trees. Picture it: golden marigolds, sunshine-yellow attire, and Harmeet & Jason perched in custom citrus-colored platforms while loved ones doused them in haldi and laughter. It was juicy, joyous, and just the right amount of messy. This exquisite wedding doesn't just happen—it's crafted with love, vision, and incredible talent.

Enter Roberta Burcheri Events, the mastermind planner behind this Italian-Sikh fusion wonderland. From concept to execution, Roberta and her team made every idea unforgettable, ensuring every guest felt the magic, beauty, and heartbeat of Harmeet & Jason's love story. The Mehndi ceremony was nothing short of spellbinding. Held at the Sheraton Lake Como, the lilac and periwinkle décor dreamt up by the iconic Vincenzo Dascanio Studio gave the evening a soft, romantic glow. Cascading wisteria, coordinated table settings, and Indian-Italian fusion fare set the tone for an evening full of dancing, mingling, and henna magic by Roshni Henna.

What's better than arriving at your pre-wedding soirée by boat? I'm doing it in Lake Como, with Dhol players waiting for the dockside! Guests boarded classic wooden water taxis, gliding toward Villa Geno, where dhol beats, choreographed dances, and Italian sunsets made for a wildly cinematic Chunni and Ring ceremony. The evening was drenched in love, movement, and enough color to make even the florals jealous. The wedding morning welcomed guests to the historic Villa Erba, where the Anand Karaj was held breathtakingly. 

Inside, the reception looked like the Met Gala's elegant cousin. Think of floral chandelier centerpieces, golden candlelight, and pastel perfection. The lighting design danced with soft pink, ivory, and yellow hues, creating a warm embrace of elegance. And capturing every moment with cinematic brilliance was Righi Studio. Known for their editorial eye and storytelling finesse, they documented the celebrations with stunning clarity and emotion—every frame felt like a still from a movie. From the intimate moments aboard Lake Como’s classic boats to the grandeur of the Anand Karaj, their photos and film brought this wedding story to life in the most breathtaking way. Dive into the full gallery and let Harmeet & Jason’s Lake Como fairytale sweep you off your feet.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
I met my now-husband during our junior year of high school when we were just 16. From the very beginning, I knew he was the one. We formed a deep emotional connection, shared the same values, and became each other’s best friends.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Our proposal took place in the charming city of Portland, Maine, with a breathtaking view of a lighthouse perched atop a cliff. The day began with a light drizzle and overcast skies—something I personally consider to be a sign of good luck. As the morning unfolded, the clouds parted, revealing a stunning sunrise, perfectly timed for the moment of the proposal.

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.
Planning our wedding was a dream come true, and it wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible planner, Roberta. We chose two breathtaking venues that each brought their own kind of magic: the stately, historic Villa Erba, and the effortlessly elegant Villa Geno, right by the water’s edge. The contrast of grandeur and intimacy created such a beautiful balance throughout the celebrations. For hair and makeup, I had the absolute honor of working with Studio Como — truly the best of the best. Not only did they make me feel radiant, but they also took such incredible care of my family. It was a joy to have them as part of the glam team. When it came to outfits, I had the privilege of wearing designs by Manish Malhotra, one of India’s most renowned designers. Each piece felt like a reflection of tradition and modernity, crafted with so much artistry. The decor was something out of a dream, brought to life by the visionary Vincenzo Dascanio — a true storyteller through the art of floral design and event production. Every event had its own unique atmosphere, yet it all felt cohesive and intentional. With fresh flowers imported from Holland, the spaces felt lush, vibrant, and utterly enchanting. Vincenzo’s attention to detail and creativity turned every corner into a work of art.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I’ve always known I wanted to be a Manish Malhotra bride, as he’s one of India’s most iconic designers. So, choosing my outfits was a breeze in that sense. I was lucky enough to wear four stunning creations from Manish Malhotra, each one my favorite for its own unique charm and craftsmanship. Each piece felt like a masterpiece in its own right. The moment I laid eyes on my wedding dress, I knew it was the one. I was drawn to the traditional Indian red, a color that symbolizes love, prosperity, and strength.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part of the wedding planning was seeing my vision come together piece by piece. From picking the perfect venue to choosing the little details like flowers and music, it was so exciting to imagine how it would all feel on the day. It also gave us a chance to bond more as a couple and make decisions that reflected both our personalities.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Our guests especially loved the setting—Lake Como is already stunning, but combined with the atmosphere we created, it felt like a dream. The food was definitely a highlight; people are still talking about how incredible every course was. But what really stood out was how thoughtful every detail was—from the welcome gifts to the seamless flow of the day—everyone felt taken care of and truly part of something special.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Of course, the most unforgettable moment was marrying the love of my life—now my husband! But the day was filled with so many other special memories. One that stands out was spending my last night as a single woman surrounded by my parents and siblings, soaking in every laugh and moment. Waking up to an outpouring of love from my family and getting ready together was truly magical. And I’ll never forget the moment they walked me down the grand steps of our wedding villa—right into the arms of my forever person.

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.
Our wedding week was filled with unforgettable moments, each more beautiful than the last, and each event had its own unique charm.

It all kicked off with my Mehndi, which was so much fun and set the tone for the week. We had lilac-colored flowers and a grand, flower-filled platform stage, creating a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere.

Next came the Haldi, held outdoors under four grand trees adorned with oranges, perfectly reflecting the bold orange and yellow Haldi theme. It was unlike anything anyone had ever seen — bright, fresh, and full of energy.

Our Sangeet at Villa Geno was an absolute blast. We arrived by boat, welcomed by our guests, and the night was full of dancing, music, and pure joy. The energy was electric, and everyone had the time of their lives.

The Sikh Wedding Ceremony took place at the historic Villa Erba, and the villa was absolutely stunning, filled with an abundance of fresh flowers that created a breathtaking atmosphere.

Our wedding reception started with an elegant cocktail hour outside of Villa Erba, overlooking the grand villa, with exquisite food and drinks. The evening continued with a grand dinner, heartfelt speeches, and live music from an amazing quartet. After dinner, the dance floor opened, and we celebrated the night away with friends and family.

The final event was our Farewell Brunch at Ceccato Garden outside the Palace Hotel. It was the perfect way to wind down the wedding week — a refreshing brunch with delicious food, craft cocktails, and the perfect ending to an unforgettable celebration.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Your wedding is just one (very special) day, but your marriage is the real ride. Forget perfect; go for what feels good and true. Be yourself, love your person hard, and take in all the little moments. Laugh, dance when no one’s watching, and let your love lead the way.

Darlings, this magical love story deserves to be cherished and remembered for generations.

Ellora & Alex's enchanting celebration in Lexington is a must-see on the Platinum Guide Blog. Enjoy!

It beautifully blended tradition and modern romance, uniting Indian customs with Western vows.

Ask Neha Now is a member 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.