Welcome to Maharani Weddings

A shimmering Southern California skyline, the elegant Hilton San Diego Bayfront as your backdrop, and the energy of two soulmates ready to celebrate theirs forever. That's precisely what happened when Prutha & Sam tied the knot in a wedding that was nothing short of film magic with a side of modern flair. With a mix of traditional flair and modern finesse, every detail was carefully curated to reflect Prutha & Sam's story. And trust us—this couple had us grinning, tearing up, and (yes) pulling out our dance shoes more than once.

Set against the coastal elegance of San Diego, the wedding ceremony honored Indian traditions with a deeply emotional and joy-filled vibe. The mandap was a floral fantasy Sacheens Decor & Events brought to life. Subham Events by Kavita ensured every moment flowed seamlessly—from baraat to vows—infusing style, grace, and, yes, the perfect amount of dhol energy.

We'd be remiss not to begin with the brilliance of Samson Productions, who didn't just document the day—they told a story. Their cinematography captured every loving glance, every firework-worthy moment (literal and emotional), and every side-eye from the aunties during the dance floor madness. From dreamy slow-motion shots to electric reception highlights, Samson made magic. Their photos? Frame-worthy. Their films? Full of emotion and energy. We're talking about goosebumps-level artistry here. Samson's work is a love poem if a picture's worth a thousand words.

The bridal glow? Unmatched. With Glamorized by Penny Kohli handling hair, makeup, and mehndi, Prutha was a vision of radiance from sunrise to starlight. Her look was effortlessly regal, and her mehndi design was the kind that makes you pause your scroll to zoom in. Penny's artistry highlighted Prutha's features and made them unforgettable. When it was time to party, the ballroom was transformed into a wonderland of lights, music, and cake (yes, we have thoughts on that cake!). With Manohar's Delhi Palace serving up a feast and A Piece of Cake by Pavani dazzling taste buds, guests were in for a culinary joyride.

But let's not skip over the entertainment. Dhamaka Productions had the dance floor lit—every auntie, uncle, cousin, and college friend dancing like nobody was watching (except, of course, Samson's cameras). And just when you thought it couldn't get better, Shambhu Drums & Live Sound brought the house down with live tabla beats that added an electrifying desi twist to the DJ mix. Cue goosebumps.

Prutha & Sam's wedding was a celebration of love that was bold, beautiful, and deeply meaningful. From beginning to end, every moment sparkled—thanks to an all-star team of vendors and one incredible couple whose love lit up the entire coast.

A perfect fusion of traditional Indian elements with modern elegance and a whole lot of personality.

Samson Productions is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

Samson Productions VIEW PORTFOLIO

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

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.

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.

Ask Neha Now VIEW PORTFOLIO

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

Some weddings begin with grandeur. Others begin with joy. For Ruchi & Shaunak, the magic started with marigolds, mehndi, and moments that made their hearts feel full before the ceremony even began. Nestled in the serene elegance of The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas, their celebration unfolded like poetry—each pre-wedding ritual rich with color, culture, and connection.

Draped in a striking orange outfit, her hands mid-air in a happy dance, Ruchi's mehndi night was a burst of tradition wrapped in bold personality. Her intricate henna by Sheetals Henna Designs wasn't just beautiful—it told the story of her roots, future, and radiant spirit. As golden threads of sunlight streamed through the windows, Ruchi beamed in a room filled with vibrant drapes, parasols, and laughter. Her friends showed off their mehndi-clad palms, and every corner of the space hummed with energy. This night celebrated sisterhood, stories, and the sacred art of preparation.

In matching shades of marigold and sunshine, the couple sat beneath a cascading canopy of yellow garlands. Ruchi wore a vibrant Devayani Chavan lehenga in fuchsia and chartreuse, adorned with floral jewelry that echoed the garden-like setting. Her soft, glowing makeup and flowing waves—expertly styled by Beauty by Joan Lis—enhanced her natural radiance as she laughed—no, glowed—as turmeric paste playfully covered her cheeks.

Shaunak didn't get off easy. Between his groomsmen ambushing him with handfuls of haldi and Ruchi smudging his cheeks with the biggest grin, it was hard to tell whether he was a groom or a full-blown art project.

And that's the thing—these weren't just rituals. They were celebrations of joy, playfulness, and the bond that carried them from college friendship to forever.

There's something sacred about silence. In a quiet green space before the ceremony, Ruchi & Shaunak stood back-to-back—eyes closed, hearts wide open. With "Hers" and "His" vow books clutched in their hands, they reached for each other. It wasn't a first look. It was something softer, more profound. A first touch. And it was captured with soul-stirring precision by WSS Weddings, a team whose talent lies in what they photograph and feel. Known for their expertise in South Asian weddings, WSS knew how to preserve this quiet exchange's intimacy without intruding. Every image from this moment—soft hands meeting, subtle smiles, quiet anticipation—is a masterclass in emotional storytelling.

When the sun set and the lights dimmed, DJ Riz Entertainment turned up the volume—literally and emotionally. From the couple's grand entrance to the night's final song, DJ Riz curated a high-energy soundtrack that had every guest on their feet. With seamless transitions between Bollywood beats, crowd-favorite bangers, and romantic slow dances, the dance floor transformed into a full-blown celebration of love and legacy. Ruchi & Shaunak's first dance was magical, and by the end of the night, even the aunties were grooving. Every ritual felt intentional, every detail filled with meaning. And thanks to a dream team of vendors who understood their vision, this celebration wasn't just picture-perfect—it was soul-stirring.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
I first met Shaunak as an undergrad at Case Western in Cleveland, Ohio. I was a sophomore and he was a senior when we first became friends while on our college's Bollywood Fusion dance team, Case Kismat! Our friendship blossomed, evolving into something more towards the end of his senior year. However, with Shaunak embarking on medical school in Toledo, we decided to part ways. After a summer apart, we rekindled our connection and decided to give long-distance a try. While we faced challenges, our bond grew stronger.

Shaunak already knew knew from the start that we were destined to be together. I, still focused on completing my undergraduate degree, wasn't quite ready to envision a future with him. Over time, I realized that he was truly 'the one.' Our relationship was built on a strong foundation of friendship and mutual respect. We faced challenges head-on, learning and growing from every experience. We could effortlessly navigate both joyful moments and serious situations together.

Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for our journey. From our initial connection in college to our decision to spend the rest of our lives together, every step has been an incredible adventure.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Shaunak planned the most incredible proposal! Since it was my birthday, everything leading up to it was cleverly disguised as birthday celebrations. My parents flew in, I got pampered with nails and hair, and even picked out a dress with my mom and sister – all under the guise of birthday festivities. Everyone was in on the secret for over two months!

I had a sneaking suspicion that something special might happen that week, but I tried to convince myself it was just an elaborate birthday surprise. Then, right before we left for what I thought was my birthday dinner, Shaunak's sister arrived unexpectedly from out of town. That's when I knew.

Both my sister and Shaunak's sister accompanied me as we walked through downtown Cleveland to the stunning Arcade, a historic landmark. There, I was greeted by both our parents and Shaunak, who had transformed the space with beautiful flowers and printed canvases showcasing our memories together. To top it off, our best friends from out of town surprised me as the photographers!

Shaunak knelt down and proposed, and it was absolutely magical. The entire evening was so perfectly planned, but I secretly wished for a bigger celebration with all of our friends. After a lovely family dinner, I thought the surprises were over.

The next day, we headed to Shaunak's family home for brunch, and that's where the real surprise awaited me! Over 20 of our closest friends from high school and college were there, just as I had hoped. We spent the day celebrating with everyone, and later enjoyed the VIP section at a downtown club. It was the most unforgettable day!

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part of the planning process was bringing two families and communities closer together. We learned about each other's values, beliefs, customs, and traditions, and explored how to weave the story of our relationship into the wedding.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Throughout the weekend, there was a palpable sense of joy that was a product of our amazing guests. Song and dance was how our relationship started and our guests shared with us that they loved the creative performances that came from the bride and groom, the bridal party, our families, and our friends.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
The most special moment of our wedding was undoubtedly our 'first touch.' Not wanting to see each other prior to the ceremony, we opted for this unique alternative to the first look. Standing back-to-back, we held hands and privately exchanged our vows. Amidst the whirlwind of wedding preparations, this intimate moment provided a much-needed pause. We were able to slow down, connect with each other, and truly be present before embarking on our journey as a married couple. The intense emotions we felt as our hands met, finally experiencing each other's presence on that day, will forever be etched in our memories. This unforgettable experience was made possible thanks to our brilliant photographer, Deepesh, who suggested this unique approach.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
Jewelry played a significant role throughout our wedding festivities. My maternal grandmother has always cherished fine jewelry, and she carefully selected many of the sets I wore throughout the weekend. While each piece was beautiful, the most meaningful were those worn during the ceremony: a collection of my mother's wedding jewelry, chosen by her nearly three decades ago. I also wore my maternal grandmother's bangles, my paternal grandmother's nath (a traditional Maharashtrian nose pin), and gold hairpins from my great-grandmother. It was a poignant tribute to the generations of women who came before me.

It was the celebration of everything they've built together and everything still to come.

DJ Riz Entertainment and WSS Weddings are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

DJ Riz Entertainment VIEW PORTFOLIO

WSS Weddings VIEW PORTFOLIO

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