Maharanis, let's get ready to enjoy Ciara & Matthew's lovely wedding in today's Platinum Guide Blog!
Today's journey is over, but the love story is just beginning! Don't miss our coming events here!
Baltimore, MD Indian Wedding by Iryna Shostak Photography
At Maharani Weddings, we believe that every bride deserves the fairytale wedding of her dreams! Here at MaharaniWeddings.com you will find glittering seeds of inspiration for every aspect of your upcoming wedding. In addition to profiling some of the most spectacular Indian weddings from around the globe through interviews, pictures, and videos, we also hand-pick and share a list of the best Indian wedding vendors in our Maharani Weddings Platinum Guide. From event planners to photographers, dj's, florists, cinematographers, makeup artists, mehndi artists, you name it... you’ll find connections to every resource you could ever need for all your wedding ceremonies and celebrations.
Maharanis, let's get ready to enjoy Ciara & Matthew's lovely wedding in today's Platinum Guide Blog!
Today's journey is over, but the love story is just beginning! Don't miss our coming events here!
Greetings, loves! Prepare to be spellbound by Devika & Bill's enchanting nuptial celebration, where love knew no boundaries and traditions danced harmoniously hand in hand. Set amidst the ethereal Morton Arboretum, this union was a radiant blend of vibrant Indian roots and American essence. Mandelette Photography worked magic to capture every stolen glance, infectious laughter, and cherished moment. Sarah Kathleen Events orchestrated a day that was nothing short of perfection. Devika's radiant smile, accentuated by the masterful touches of theFACE PRO, was truly the star of the day. Town and Country Gardens unfurled a canvas of breathtaking floral designs, and Satin Chair added that touch of luxury with their exquisite decor. A feast for both the eyes and the palate was meticulously laid out by Ashyana Banquets, reminding everyone that love tastes as good as it feels. Their unique blend was even more heartwarming, with beats curated by DJ Sherlockca. Each track was a tribute to the couple's shared dreams. You will love today's gallery!
How did you meet your Groom, and when did you know he was "the one"?
Bill and I met on New Year's Eve in 2016 through mutual friends. I knew he was the one, and somehow, he knew as well! I had just moved back from Dallas a week ago. It was an instant connection, and we felt the love right away.
Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Bill proposed to me in the most romantic way. After a long week vacationing in Barcelona, he proposed on a sunset cruise on one of the final nights. After sailing out for some time, the boat turned around to head back with a view of the entire city. We went up to the bow for a picture, but instead, Bill secretly set it on video and asked them to keep recording when he popped out the ring box! A video we will never forget of our proposal on the Mediterranean, looking back at the beautiful city and sunset.
Tell us how you went about planning your wedding and your overall experience with the Venues, Hair and makeup, Outfits, Decor Theme, and all of the other important details.
We were fortunate to have an extended timeline to plan the wedding and all events. It allowed us to slowly start putting together the outline of events and styles as we searched for the right venue. We were thrilled to be one of the very first weddings at the new Grand Garden of the Morton Arboretum; when we first saw the sight, it was still newly under construction and was just a pile of dirt! But the beautiful renditions they had made us confident it would be perfect - which it definitely was. All of our vendors were super amazing and more than helpful throughout the process. This includes our photographer, who was very generous with her time and went above and beyond to make our engagement photos exactly what we had dreamed of. We were also lucky to have had a trip to India pre-planned for a cousin's wedding, which allowed us to source the perfect outfits for ourselves and the bridal party. We loved shopping at Pernia's Pop Up, Manyavar, Frontier Raas, and so many others throughout Delhi and Kolkata.
Our vendors are listed below:
Make-up vendor: The FacePro
Photography by Rachel Mandelette
Town and Country Event: Jamie Lea Power
Sarah Kathleen Events: Jessica Anderson-Gonzalez
Wedding Dress: Frontier Raas, Delhi
Reception Dress: Bri'Zan Couture, Naperville
Cake: DeEtta's, Naperville
How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
We knew we were going to shop in India for the lengha, so we picked out several stores ahead of time that we would visit. After spending the day at several shops for both the lengha and sherwani, we stopped at Frontier Raas and found my wedding lengha at first glance. I was looking for a pastel mix of peach and blues, and the lengha I found was perfect.
What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part was looking for a venue with our parents. It was fun envisioning our big day at each location and making a day out of stopping at several different venues. A close second was outfit shopping because we had a blended wedding; this was the first time my now husband could experience India while we were shopping.
What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
A lot of guests have told us the beautiful outdoor venue at Morton Venue was their highlight. They did such a fantastic job creating the Grand Garden, and the weather on the big day could not have been more perfect. That, along with the incredible view looking out at the lake from our reception, they were stunned by the beautiful scenery the entire day.
Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Walking down the aisle and seeing my family and friend's reactions have been one of my highlights. Looking out at everyone from up on the Mandap after the ceremony filled us both with such happiness and love. As we walked down, we felt that from each and every single one of our guests.
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 had a 4 day-long event, which included a Haldi, Sangeet, and Rehearsal Dinner in the days preceding the ceremony. Our Haldi was traditional colors of yellow, orange, and red at my parent's house with all of our friends and family. Our sangeet was brightly styled with pink and orange colors. We had heartfelt speeches, live musical performances, and many dances, including a lungi dance performed by the groom and a version of Jhoome Jo Pathaan by the bride and groom. The rehearsal dinner was a smaller event with close friends and family where we got to relive the first two days' events and share stories and words of love for one another. It was held at a former mansion that is now a tapas restaurant, which was special for us as a callback to our engagement in Barcelona.
Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Enjoy every moment from the days of planning and practicing all the way through the wedding. It goes by very fast, and you will want to cherish the little things!
Thanks for being with us today, and don't forget to be back for our daily and lovely updates here!
Greetings, Maharanis! Get ready to enjoy Ekta & Manish's wedding in today's Platinum Guide Blog.
We hope you enjoy today's feature, darlings. Cheers to love and the endless possibilities it brings!
We are starting the day with a trip to Morocco so we can join Rusna & Stelianos' wedding! Set against the breathtaking backdrop of The Oberoi Marrakech, their wedding was a symphony of emotions and traditions, a fusion of South Asian luxury and European elegance. With the meticulous touch of Hello Weddings Events, every corner exudes romance and sophistication, setting the stage for a love story rivaling any fairytale. Christian Vannhoutte's artistry in floral and decor transformed the surroundings into a dreamscape of vibrant colors. Rusna beauty, illuminated by ensembles from Sabyasachi, Falguni Shane Peacock, Anamika Khanna, Galia Lahav, and Clio Peppiatt, is a testament to the power of love and anticipation that fills the air. Ggini Bogha's deft touch enhances Rusna's natural elegance, allowing her to shine with an inner radiance matched only by her smile's warmth. DJ Djhmusic and Aarvee crafted a soundscape that echoes the joy of togetherness as guests sway to the rhythm of love. The Wedding Filmer's and its incredible team glowed brilliantly in the mesmerizing video capturing this enchanting journey. They expertly weave together moments of love, joy, and intimacy into a visual masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of this celebration.
Thanks for your visit today, darlings! Don't forget to be back for more inspirational stories every day.
Beauty, elegance, tradition, and lots of love! That is what we have for you today, ladies! Check out Noor & Joji's incredible wedding. From the lively Baraat led by Fusion Sounds with an infectious energy that infused the atmosphere with excitement, creating an ambiance of joy and anticipation, to the elegant ceremony held at the Hyatt Regency Valencia, every moment was an ode to love and tradition. The meticulous planning and design by none other than the bride's mom and the radiant bride herself added a personal touch to every aspect of the celebration. Noor looked like a princess, adorned in exquisite bridal fashion and jewelry from Frontier Heritage. And thanks to the skilled hands of Jaxvicious Beauty, her hair and makeup were flawlessly crafted, enhancing her natural beauty. The festivities shifted to the breathtaking L.A. Banquets - The Landmark, where the reception awaited. The delectable flavors of Punjab Dhaba and Royal Tandoor delicacies delighted every palate, leaving an indelible mark on the taste buds of all attendees. Fusion Sounds took charge of the DJ duties, and the beats flowed seamlessly, transitioning from heart-pumping tracks to soulful melodies, ensuring that every guest found their rhythm. The mesmerizing moments were immortalized by the talented team from Balerina Films, who captured every tear, smile, and embrace, preserving the memories for eternity. You cannot miss today's gallery so make sure to check it out! You will love it!
How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
I met my now-husband on a dating app and on our first date I had a life-changing encounter with him. The first time I saw him, it felt like everything was about to change. We locked eyes, and in that instant, I felt a deep connection, unlike anything I had experienced before. Our conversations flowed effortlessly, and being with him made me feel understood and cherished. I knew he was "the one" because his presence brought out the best in me and inspired me to dream bigger. I never believed in love at first site but he proves that love at first sight is real and can lead to a lifetime of happiness and growth.
Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
In the heart of Washington D.C., Joji planned a special surprise for me. Thinking we were going for a casual lunch, I was in for a delightful shock. He had rented out a beautiful rooftop space at the Watergate Hotel, overlooking the city's sparkling waters. Surrounded by our loved ones, Joji got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was a moment filled with love and joy that I will cherish forever.
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.
Our wedding celebration was truly a dream come true, filled with vibrant colors, elegance, and grandeur. It all began with a joyful haldi ceremony held in my backyard, where the entire atmosphere was adorned with beautiful shades of yellow. The lively and fun-filled vibe set the tone for the festivities to come.
One of the highlights of our celebration was the enchanting sangeet night. Inspired by the regal style of Jodha Akbar, we aimed for an old-world charm with a modern twist. The venue was transformed into a mesmerizing space that exuded elegance and royalty. We wanted our guests to feel like they had stepped into a bygone era, while still experiencing a touch of contemporary beauty.
When it came to our main wedding ceremony, the anand karaj, we wanted to create a truly royal atmosphere with a touch of springtime magic. Soft pastel hues were the perfect choice to capture the essence of the season. The theme of "cloud 9" embodied our desire for a dreamy and ethereal ambiance. We asked everyone to wear pastel shades, which added to the enchanting atmosphere. The venue itself was transformed into a heavenly garden, providing a picturesque backdrop for our sacred union.
As the night transitioned to our reception, we wanted to amp up the glitz and glamor. It was a time to celebrate in style and make a bold statement. The venue was adorned with exquisite decorations, sparkling lights, and opulent elements. The entire ambiance radiated sophistication and grandeur, creating the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening of celebration and joy.
Our wedding celebration truly reflected our vision and desires. Each event, from the vibrant haldi ceremony to the regal sangeet, the ethereal anand karaj, and the glamorous reception, showcased different aspects of our love story. We were overwhelmed with joy to see our dreams come to life and to share these incredible experiences with our loved ones. The memories we created will be cherished forever, leaving everyone in awe of the love and happiness that surrounded us on our special day. Our wedding was made even more magical by the exceptional talents of our favorite vendors. One of our most cherished choices was our photographer and videographer, Balerina Films. They captured every moment of our special day flawlessly, with a keen eye for detail and an editorial approach. The photos and videos they produced are truly works of art that we will treasure for a lifetime.
Another wonderful discovery during our vendor search was our makeup artist, Jaxvicious Beauty. We stumbled upon her while exploring different options, and she turned out to be an absolute gem. Jaxvicious Beauty understood my vision completely and brought it to life with her exceptional skills. Every look she created was executed to perfection, capturing exactly what I had envisioned. Her talent and dedication added an extra touch of glamour and confidence to my wedding day.
We feel incredibly fortunate to have had such talented professionals by our side, capturing and enhancing our wedding experience. Their artistry and expertise truly elevated our celebration, and we are grateful for their contributions to making our day even more special.
How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
Every detail of my wedding outfits was meticulously brought to life by the talented team at Frontier Heritage in Artesia. I had a clear vision in mind - to wear ivory for my special day, a departure from the traditional bold colors typically worn by Indian brides. I wanted to embrace a more understated elegance while still honoring the conservative and respectful nature of the religious ceremony. I wore a fusion Anarkali/ lengha for my anand karaj and created a matching kurta set for my husband.
Frontier Heritage went above and beyond to understand my desires and preferences. They worked closely with me to select the perfect fabrics, intricate work, and impeccable cuts for each ensemble. The result was nothing short of breathtaking. Every outfit was a masterpiece, tailored to perfection and crafted with exceptional attention to detail.
Wearing these custom creations made me feel like a true vision on my wedding day. The ivory hues exuded grace and sophistication, setting me apart in a subtle and distinct way. The flow and drape of the outfits were exquisite, accentuating my every movement and making me feel like a princess.
I cannot express my gratitude enough for Frontier Heritage's dedication and artistry. They brought my dreams to life and ensured that every outfit reflected my unique style and vision. The compliments poured in, and I couldn't have been happier with the outcome. These bespoke creations will forever hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the beauty and elegance that defined my wedding day.
What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part of the wedding planning process was undoubtedly the custom design of our outfits and the exhilarating task of pulling the entire look together. My husband and I embarked on this journey together, creating our vision hand in hand.
Collaborating on the design of our outfits allowed us to infuse our personal styles, tastes, and cultural heritage into every intricate detail. We dove into a world of fabrics, colors, and embellishments, carefully selecting elements that would bring our vision to life. The process ignited our creativity and allowed us to craft unique ensembles that truly reflected our love story.
What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Our guests were enamored by several aspects of our wedding, but there were a few elements that stood out and left a lasting impression on everyone. First and foremost, the hospitality of our families was greatly appreciated. From the moment our guests arrived, they were greeted with warmth, love, and a genuine sense of care. Our families went above and beyond to ensure that every guest felt welcomed and cherished, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere that set the tone for the entire celebration.
Another highlight that our guests absolutely loved was the fusion of our friends from different backgrounds coming together to celebrate our love. Our wedding became a beautiful tapestry of diverse cultures, traditions, and friendships. Seeing our loved ones connect and embrace one another's customs created an atmosphere of unity and joy. It was a testament to the power of love in bringing people together, transcending boundaries, and fostering a sense of community.
The energy of all the events throughout our wedding celebration was contagious. From the lively haldi ceremony to the graceful anand karaj and the glamorous reception, there was palpable excitement and joy that filled the air. Our guests couldn't help but be swept away by the infectious energy and vibrant spirit that permeated every moment. The dance floors were alive with laughter, music, and uninhibited celebration, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Overall, our guests were enchanted by the warm hospitality extended by our families, the fusion of friendships and cultures, and the electrifying energy that permeated every event. It was these elements, combined with the love and joy that radiated throughout our wedding, that made it an unforgettable experience for all who attended.
Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
There was a truly special moment from our wedding that replays in our minds like a cherished memory on repeat. Throughout the entire month of February and March in Los Angeles, the rain had become an almost constant companion. But as fate would have it, during the four days of our wedding celebration, the rain took a hiatus, and the weather was absolutely perfect, allowing all our planned outdoor events to unfold as we had envisioned.
The significance of this fortunate weather cannot be overstated. It felt like a divine blessing as if the universe itself had aligned to gift us with clear skies and gentle breezes. The sun shone brightly, casting a warm and golden glow upon our joyous festivities.
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 celebration was truly a dream come true, filled with vibrant colors, elegance, and grandeur. It all began with a joyful haldi ceremony held in my backyard, where the entire atmosphere was adorned with beautiful shades of yellow. The lively and fun-filled vibe set the tone for the festivities to come.
One of the highlights of our celebration was the enchanting sangeet night. Inspired by the regal style of Jodha Akbar, we aimed for an old-world charm with a modern twist. The venue was transformed into a mesmerizing space that exuded elegance and royalty. We wanted our guests to feel like they had stepped into a bygone era, while still experiencing a touch of contemporary beauty.
When it came to our main wedding ceremony, the anand karaj, we wanted to create a truly royal atmosphere with a touch of springtime magic. Soft pastel hues were the perfect choice to capture the essence of the season. The theme of "cloud 9" embodied our desire for a dreamy and ethereal ambiance. We asked everyone to wear pastel shades, which added to the enchanting atmosphere. The venue itself was transformed into a heavenly garden, providing a picturesque backdrop for our sacred union.
As the night transitioned to our reception, we wanted to amp up the glitz and glamor. It was a time to celebrate in style and make a bold statement. The venue was adorned with exquisite decorations, sparkling lights, and opulent elements. The entire ambiance radiated sophistication and grandeur, creating the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening of celebration and joy.
Our wedding celebration truly reflected our vision and desires. Each event, from the vibrant haldi ceremony to the regal sangeet, the ethereal anand karaj, and the glamorous reception, showcased different aspects of our love story. We were overwhelmed with joy to see our dreams come to life and to share these incredible experiences with our loved ones. The memories we created will be cherished forever, leaving everyone in awe of the love and happiness that surrounded us on our special day. Our wedding was made even more magical by the exceptional talents of our favorite vendors. One of our most cherished choices was our photographer and videographer, Balerina Films. They captured every moment of our special day flawlessly, with a keen eye for detail and an editorial approach. The photos and videos they produced are truly works of art that we will treasure for a lifetime.
Another wonderful discovery during our vendor search was our makeup artist, Jaxvicious Beauty. We stumbled upon her while exploring different options, and she turned out to be an absolute gem. Jaxvicious Beauty understood my vision completely and brought it to life with her exceptional skills. Every look she created was executed to perfection, capturing exactly what I had envisioned. Her talent and dedication added an extra touch of glamour and confidence to my wedding day.
We feel incredibly fortunate to have had such talented professionals by our side, capturing and enhancing our wedding experience. Their artistry and expertise truly elevated our celebration, and we are grateful for their contributions in making our day even more special.
Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
For all the Brides-To-Be out there, we have a few words of wisdom to share. As you embark on this beautiful journey, remember that at the end of the day, perfection is elusive. Instead, find happiness in the imperfections that may arise along the way.
Weddings are complex and intricate events, filled with countless details and expectations. It's easy to get caught up in striving for everything to be flawless. But amidst the chaos and unpredictability, it's important to keep perspective and remember the true purpose of your special day.
Embrace the imperfections with an open heart and a smile. Understand that unexpected changes and minor glitches are part of the adventure. They can even become cherished memories in the tapestry of your wedding story. It's the genuine moments, the laughter, the tears, and the love shared with family and friends that truly matter.
Focus on what truly brings you joy and meaning. Surround yourself with a support system that will uplift and encourage you during the planning process. Take time to breathe, appreciate the journey, and nurture your relationship with your partner. Remember, the beauty lies in the genuine moments of connection and the celebration of your love.
Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
Our wedding week began with a small and intimate mendhi night. It was a beautiful gathering with just a few close family members and friends. To start off our wedding festivities, I wore my mom's wedding suit, adding a sentimental touch to the occasion.
The simplicity of the evening allowed us to connect deeply with our loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and heartfelt conversations. It was a time to reflect, feel grateful, and prepare our hearts for the upcoming days.
This intimate and meaningful mendhi night set the foundation for our wedding week, emphasizing the importance of family, tradition, and love. The memories we created on this special evening will always hold a special place in our hearts as we embarked on our journey together.
Stay tuned for more unforgettable tales, sweeties. May your hearts be filled with everlasting joy.