Welcome to Maharani Weddings

Join us on a captivating journey through Thanmayi & Deepak's wedding. Love blossomed in the air, and hearts entwined as this beautiful couple tied the knot at The View at Bluemont. Ishan Fotografi truly excelled in capturing the essence and emotion of this wedding. Each photograph is a vivid story in itself, encapsulating the day's joy, color, and vibrancy. Petal N' Bloom transformed the venue into a floral wonderland that perfectly complemented the bride's beauty. White Dress Black Tie Events flawlessly orchestrated every detail, ensuring every moment was filled with charm. Thanmayi's natural beauty was accentuated by Oni Beauty by Oni, who created a bridal look that left everyone in awe and shone with Senagems' jewelry pieces. Desi DB Beatsz Entertainment took the stage, setting the tone for a night of endless celebration. Diego Stuart Films brought exceptional artistry and emotional depth to the videography of this wedding. His keen eye for detail and extraordinary storytelling skills were evident in how he seamlessly wove together the moving narrative. The final product was a heartfelt, visually stunning cinematic journey they will treasure forever. Enjoy the film! 

Today's journey is over, but the love story is just beginning! Don't miss our coming events here! 

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Sowmya & Madhav's love story is the epitome of friendship blossoming into love. The journey from their first meeting at Case Western Reserve University to becoming life partners is woven with threads of understanding, companionship, and unwavering support. Still, it wasn't until a Thanksgiving Facetime call, alive with laughter and seamless interactions, that illuminated the profound connection between them. It wasn't just Sowmya & Madhav anymore; it was a union waiting to be solemnized.

Juggling the rigors of medical school and wedding planning with the help of Meant 2 Be Events, Sowmya found solace in creating a celebration that was a true reflection of their journey. Every detail, from the vibrant décor to the thematic color schemes, bore the imprint of their love story. Madhav, with his penchant for organization, made the meticulous planning seem like a dance, graceful and in step with Sowmya's creative vision. Together, they weaved magic, turning each aspect of their nuptials into a narrative of love, unity, and celebration.

The wedding celebrated at the Chateau Luxe Phoenix, was not just a union of two souls but a confluence of two families, two journeys, and myriad aspirations. While the dances, the laughter, and the jubilations marked the festivities, it was the silent, profound moments that held the essence. Madhav's tears, as Sowmya, radiant and resplendent, walked down the aisle, marked the transcendence of a love that had grown, matured, and was now ready to step into eternity.

Every moment and every detail of the wedding sang a melody of unity; amidst the lively celebrations, Sowmya & Madhav found their 'home' within each other. Each touch and glance affirmed a silent vow – "Two paths, two souls, one heartbeat!"

Congratulations Sowmya & Madhav!

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
I first met Madhav in college (Case Western Reserve University) as a freshman in January of 2016. We hit it off as friends, and we became each other's confidants: we went to each other for advice, coffee, and honestly venting. It was nice having such a wonderful friend in my life, and our friendship naturally progressed into the next stage a few years later. I am so happy and grateful (I know it’s cliché), but I really do feel like I married my best friend.

I knew he was "The One" when I was Facetiming him during Thanksgiving with my family. To me, family is more important than anything, and I’m extremely close with my cousins, aunts, and uncles. So naturally, whoever I end up with must gel and understand our weird and niche sense of humor. When my cousins jumped on Facetime and started chatting with him, I was literally so shocked because it felt like they had known each other for YEARS. This was the biggest green flag, and honestly, it solidified everything I knew I wanted in a partner. I remember thinking to myself at that moment, “damn, I want this person here every Thanksgiving, not just on Facetime.” I definitely had a ton more “aha” moments after that where I felt the vibes time and time again, but I’ll keep this entry short ;)

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
It happened on October 16, 2021, at the River Walk in Chicago. All my favorite people in the universe coordinated a flash mob for me, and Madhav proposed at the end. It was truly my favorite day until my wedding day naturally took that title. I would describe the whole proposal here, but this video will explain it all. I edited it myself, and it tells the story beautifully <3 My husband went all out for it, and he had my friends and family record little mini vlogs documenting each detail as the day unfolded. I’m super proud of everyone that came together for this wonderful event. 10/10 must watch!!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cza1qeRRxhY&ab_channel=SowmyaRavi

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 my wedding was definitely a challenge that I was prepared for if that makes sense. I knew I wanted the full, big, fat Indian wedding from day 1, so I understood that a lot of work would have to go into it. The number one thing I wanted for my wedding was to feel my creative thumbprint on all the events whenever I looked back on those days. I wanted to feel like I had contributed something. Looking back at our fantastic photos and videos now, I can confidently say I was able to do just that (special shoutout to our incredible photo/video team).

I planned my wedding throughout my 2nd year of medical school, which was challenging but doable. I used it as a good break between studying sessions and found solace in choreographing the dances, picking the décor, and organizing color schemes. Channeling creative energy into each event made the process a lot more fun and less painful in the long run. Sometimes, brides and grooms get so caught up in making all the decisions that they forget to really enjoy the fun stuff. For me, once all the tough choices were made early on in the year (aka the venue, caterer, and hair and makeup), I really enjoyed getting friends and family on board to help out with the process. It brought me a lot closer to my friends today, and I am so thankful for their support throughout the process. Choosing all my vendors was fairly painless, mostly because my lovely husband handled the Excel spreadsheets and cost/budget calculations. Plus, I didn’t have many specifics because I knew whatever I chose would fit with a color scheme and performances that Madhav I felt exemplified our personalities. In the end, I opted for a location that was easy to plan around and vendors that were popular in that area.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
Color was the first thing I picked. I have been obsessed with teal since I was 7, back when it was super “in” and every little girl’s room was that color in 2011 (maybe this was just me and my friends, lol). Once I picked that, my wonderful tailor helped me decide the fabric I wanted. While I was in her cute little shop in Bangalore, I had some downtime waiting around between her clients, so I started sketching some designs. I love to draw, so I drew some figures and design themes that I would love in my eventual lehenga. Sonam Didi was incredible and immediately helped me channel my sketches into something we could incorporate into the lehenga. Both Sonam Didi and her mom, Poonam Aunty, were so respectful and patient; they designed my absolute dream lehenga and bridal sari blouse. I definitely miss them both and can’t thank them enough! !!! Sending so much love to both of you.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
I really enjoyed spending time with my fiancée and our friends, trying to figure out how to make it the most entertaining weekend possible. We had one goal – how can we make this the most fun for everyone and keep people entertained? There were definitely some moments where that would not be possible, but hey, we tried super hard. I also loved choreographing the dances and would honestly love to do this for other weddings. Something about making a personalized routine that encapsulates a couple’s vibe. Bringing everyone together is so fun! Also, the honeymoon planning meetings were wonderful. Since I did a good chunk of the creative planning for the wedding, my amazing husband took the lead and literally planned the entire honeymoon with weekly presentations to get my opinion on certain activities, resorts, and locations. When we left the day after our wedding, I was shocked at how much thought and detail he put into each day, and I am so thankful to have him in my life (ew, this is so mushy).

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
It was a tough question since I wasn’t a guest, but I would say from their reactions, I think they really loved the performances and games at our sangeet and reception. Also the food!! They loved the presentation and how there was a good mix of authentic south and north Indian vegetarian dishes. Our caterer did an amazing job and made the food look and taste incredible.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Madhav and I watched a lot of wedding social media moments where the groom cries when the bride enters, to the point where neither of us thought we would... We both were 100% sure we were desensitized to it since we were so prepared and expected it to happen. But sure enough, when I came walking down the aisle with both my parents and saw Madhav crying, I was absolutely stunned and thought to myself, “Wow, here come my tears.” Later, Madhav told me he was so surprised, too, and didn’t realize how special that moment would be to him. The tears were given, so it was something that I replay In my mind and will constantly remember.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Build in time for you and your fiancée to check in with each other during the big wedding week. Madhav and I had so much going on around us that those special 10-minute breaks where it was just the two of us were so calming and special. It reminded us that it was one of the most special times in our lives.

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Maharanis, enjoy the enchanting tale of Aanchal & Ananth's wedding at The Rockleigh. With its palatial ballrooms, resplendent with crystal chandeliers and sweeping staircases, it provides an ambiance that is opulent and intimately welcoming. Their nuptials unfolded like a classic love ballad orchestrated with the impeccable expertise of Xquisit Events. Nirali Decor, with its floral artistry, created a visual sonnet that echoed the bloom of a thousand flowers. Aanchal was the epitome of grace courtesy of Tulsi Silks, Koskii & Sundari Silks, draped by the skilled hands of Sherine Kurien. Cinderella Bridez crafted a visage so ethereal it rivaled the morning sun's first light. Ananth stood in regal splendor, adorned in the ceremonial elegance of Manyavar. Their love story, set to the dynamic beats and rhythms by Shilpa Entertainment, made every heart dance in joyous abandon. A Little Cake added a touch of sweetness with confectionary delights that melted in mouths and hearts alike. The talented Studio KSD, with its cinematographic genius, wove a visual narrative that captured images and the very essence of emotions that danced in the air, immortalizing them for a lifetime. 

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
Our story started as an office romance! We both worked on the same team and sat three feet away from each other, so it was inevitable that we'd become friends. We first hit it off at a team happy hour, and eventually, these group hangs turned into on one hangs where we explored the San Francisco nightlife. That's when I began to realize there was something special about Ananth. Knowing he was "the one" didn't happen in a single instant, but rather it was a gradual realization that dawned on me. I'd always talked about finding a "dream boy," and with him, everything seemed to click into place in a special way that I'd never experienced before.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
On what seemed like an ordinary day, I woke up, got a manicure and bagel brunch with friends, and under the premise of meeting some friends of a friend visiting from out of town, I was lured to the tallest building in Philadelphia (somehow I found none of this suspicious). On the 60th floor, against a backdrop of gorgeous views and beautiful flowers, I found Ananth (who I thought was busy moving out of his California apartment that day), along with her family and closest friends. He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him, and naturally, I said YES! Somehow, despite an 11-page long Google doc outlining her dream proposal, I was still surprised - probably because of Ananth's decoy date and carefully planned moving truck photos he sent me to throw me off!

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 planning process began with the booking of our venue and main vendors, ensuring that we secured the key elements of our big day. After that, we made a trip to India to shop for our wedding attire and accessories. After this, we then turned our focus to the finer details. This included crafting a comprehensive timeline, outlining responsibilities, and making lists and spreadsheets for every aspect of the wedding. Staying organized was key, and this helped us keep track of everything efficiently.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
For our mehendi and welcome event, I wanted a bold, colorful, and fun look. I wore a dark blue glittery lehenga with floral beading in gold and pink.

For the ceremony, I opted for a more traditional look, which I wanted to be classic and elegant - I wore a red and gold kanjeevaram 6-yard sari as well as a yellow and pink 9-yard sari.

For the reception, I wanted for a modern and sparkly look and wore a pale pink lehenga covered in sparkles and intricate beading that caught the light whenever I moved.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part of the planning process for me was diving into the creative aspects of the wedding. It was the opportunity to bring our vision to life and add personal touches to make the day uniquely ours. Whether it was choosing the color schemes, designing the invitations, or crafting the decor theme, each decision allowed us to infuse our personalities and styles into every detail. It was a chance to express our love story in a visual and meaningful way, and it made the whole process incredibly rewarding and exciting.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Our first dance was a perfect representation of us, infused with the vibrant energy of Bollywood. It even included a big, filmy lift that wowed our guests. It was a magical moment that captured the essence of our love and shared passions.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
One of the most memorable moments for me was the incredible surprise dance that my friends and husband had put together. It was a dance so quintessentially "me" that it touched my heart deeply. Their thoughtfulness and the effort they put into it made it a standout moment that left a lasting impression.

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.
For our pre-wedding event, the Mehendi and the welcome dinner, we aimed for a fusion of fun and elegance. During the event, my husband and I decided to make it a musical affair. We surprised our guests with a guitar and piano duet, performing lively Bollywood songs that set the tone for a joyous and vibrant evening. It was a personal touch that allowed us to share our love for music with our loved ones. We also had a playful "shoe game" that added a fun twist to the evening. The night continued with an open dance floor, where everyone joined in to celebrate and dance the night away, making it a memorable and spirited occasion.

For the reception, we focused on creating an atmosphere of sophistication and glamor - thus, our decor was classy and elegant, with sparkles and florals, and candles everywhere. The reception featured various elements, including Bollywood dances and heartfelt speeches from family and friends.
After dinner, we wrapped up the event with a night of non-stop dancing.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
1. Plan meticulously: Keep track of everything in a way that works best for you. Whether it's through lists, spreadsheets, or a wedding planning app, organization is key to managing the many details that go into a wedding.

2. Make it about you and your partner: Add personal touches that represent your love story and your personality. Your wedding should be a reflection of your unique journey together.

3. Don't stress about controlling everything: It's impossible to control every aspect of your wedding day. Embrace flexibility and the idea that some things may not go according to plan. In the end, it's the love and joy that matter most.

4. Don't do everything yourself: Share the workload with friends and family. They are often more than willing to help and contribute, so don't hesitate to lean on them.

5. Remember that even if things don't go exactly as planned, your wedding day will still be beautiful, memorable, and wonderful. It's a celebration of love and commitment, and that's what truly matters.

Witness the love, laughter, and breathtaking moments of South Asian weddings. Come back for more!

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Anisha & Rishabh's wedding was a mesmerizing blend of tradition, elegance, and international flair, unfolding in a paradisiacal destination: Mexico. From classmates, at the London Business School, to soulmates, their romance blossomed. Marked by a magical encounter on a Tel Aviv beach, the allure of Budapest, and the final wave of the wand was an international proposal on the Amalfi Coast. All we can say is Wow!

The wedding extravaganza hosted at Hacienda Chichi Suarez was etched in the memories of guests hailing from every corner of the globe. A traditional Indian ceremony set against the exquisite backdrop of Merida was a narrative of fusion, where customs met aesthetics and traditions conversed with modern elegance. The colonial Hacienda whispered stories of bygone eras, lending an immortal touch to a union celebrated as unique and refreshing.

Anisha's fashion choices were a dance of colors and designs, weaving the eloquence of cultural richness with personal sentiments. For the Sangeet, Anisha and her sister chose a vibrant sequin lengha designed by Seema Gujral. For the wedding ceremony, Anisha donned a purple Banarasi sari, a silent, elegant tribute to a mother's love. Turquoise blossomed at the reception in the form of a floral-themed reception dress custom-designed by Anisha's sister in partnership with designers Shyamal & Bhumika.

Anisha & Rishabh's wedding was not just an event but a celestial dance of destinies, cultures, and eras. Every smile, every vow, was a testament to a love story birthed in the silent halls of academia, nurtured under the watchful gaze of global cities, and immortalized amidst the mystical embrace of Merida's colonial charm.

Congratulations Anisha & Rishabh!

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
My path crossed with Rishabh's at London Business School. Though we were seated in close proximity throughout our first term, we didn't really establish a connection until the following term. Our common ground? A challenging Fixed Income class - a geeky affinity, I must admit. However, it was those late-night study sessions that gave birth to a budding friendship.

As time wore on, we found ourselves spending increasingly more time together. It wasn't until our third term, though, that our casual encounters transformed into daily conversations. The universe had its way of nudging us closer - we serendipitously bumped into each other on a beach in Tel Aviv while on separate vacations. Seizing the moment, I invited him to accompany me on a forthcoming trip to Budapest. His affirmative answer sparked what felt like a first date amidst the enchanting cityscape of Budapest. That's how our story began, and the rest, as they say, is history!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Rishabh and I had been New York residents for nearly two years, yet with our history of memorable moments abroad, I yearned for an international proposal. Since we met and had our first date overseas, a proposal outside the US seemed fitting. With a trip to both London and Italy on the cards, I had a hunch that Rishabh might pop the question during our travels, but the exact timing remained a mystery.

A few days into our London adventure, we jetted off to Amalfi, where we checked into the NH Collection Hotel. One beautiful morning, Rishabh asked me to dress up under the pretext of visiting an ancient cathedral. Sensing a surprise, I played along. The real destination turned out to be a breathtaking spot at our hotel, with a panorama of the Amalfi Coast stretched out before us. There, amidst the beauty, he proposed.

To make the moment even more special, he had arranged for a photographer to freeze the moment in time. Overwhelmed by the moment, he managed to muster a simple, "Hey, are we doing this?" to which I enthusiastically replied, "Hell yeah!"

The cherry on top? A three-hour hike along the scenic 'Path of the Gods' on the Amalfi Coast. It was undoubtedly the most perfect proposal and the most unforgettable day any girl could ever wish for!

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?

I had the delightful challenge of selecting four different outfits for four different events, and I couldn't have done it without my sister's invaluable assistance with color choices, styles, and Indian designers.

For the Haldi event, I decided on a yellow, off-the-shoulder jumpsuit - I was keen on wearing something other than a lengha for at least one of the occasions. For the Sangeet, my sister and I chose a vibrant sequin lengha designed by Seema Gujral, which we found at the Origins store in Hyderabad.

When it came to the ceremony, I was set on a purple Banarasi sari, a tribute to my mom's favorite color. As for the reception, I knew I wanted to don a lengha in turquoise - my personal favorite hue. My sister came to the rescue again, helping me custom design a floral-themed reception dress with the designers Shyamal & Bhumika.

I absolutely adored all my chosen outfits, and I'm truly grateful for my sister's guidance in making the best style choices.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
One of the highlights of the wedding planning process was undoubtedly the opportunity to travel to Mexico. Scouting venues, indulging in food and dessert tastings, and completing a hair and makeup trial turned out to be an enjoyable and relaxing part of the entire process. I can't recommend this enough to any couple considering a destination wedding - it's an absolute treat!

Another part of the planning I relished was choosing my wedding dresses alongside my sister. And let's not forget the fun we had rehearsing the Sangeet dances with my bridesmaids and Rishabh's groomsmen - those are memories I'll cherish!

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
We had the pleasure of hosting guests from every corner of the globe, not just from the US but also from India, across Europe and Latin America, and as far as Japan. Our friends from the London Business School, some family members from India, and family friends from various parts of the world all flew in to share our special day. Everyone had the opportunity to partake in a traditional Indian wedding set against the beautiful backdrop of Merida, Mexico. It was truly a unique experience.

While most people might think of beach weddings in Cancun or similar locales when they envision a wedding in Mexico, our guests appreciate the uniqueness of our venue. Our wedding, set in a breathtaking colonial Hacienda in Merida - hailed as Mexico's safest city, was celebrated as distinctive and refreshing.

Our guests reveled in every aspect of the event - the eye-catching venue, the delicious food, the energetic music, and the first-rate entertainment. Many couldn't help but declare it as the best wedding they'd ever attended!

I must tip my hat to Mexico for offering such a splendid wedding destination. A huge shout-out to my wedding planners and all the vendors involved - their outstanding work ensured a truly unforgettable event!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
One of the most heartwarming moments of the celebration was when my sister, two of my childhood friends, Mayuri and Sandhya, and I performed a traditional Indian dance known as Bharatanatyam at the reception. Dancing has been a shared passion throughout our childhood and well into adulthood.

This performance was particularly special as it was a tribute to my late mother, who herself was a dancer. While she couldn't be there physically, I knew she was looking down from above, enjoying every moment of our performance. Rishabh, who had the pleasure of meeting her before she passed away, deeply appreciated this moment as it helped him reconnect with cherished memories of her.
Today's journey is over, but the love story is just beginning! Don't miss our coming events here! 

The story of Gayatri & Shyam’s union began not with a whisper but between the artistry and inks of a tattoo shop in Singapore. An unconventional beginning to an everlasting tale! A conversation that started by the serene waters of Clarke Quay River continued across years and miles, and their hearts, though separated by the American landscapes, beat in harmonious rhythm until words of love, spoken and heartfelt, sealed their serendipitous connection.

Their wedding planning in the hands of Elaan Events was woven with threads of mutual understanding and complementary desires. Knotting Hill Place, a castle surrounded by expansive landscapes, provided a perfect canvas for their intimate indoor setting yet felt like a grand celebration. 

Guests were regaled not just by the captivating dance performances and the upbeat melodies played by DJ Riz Entertainment but also by an air of uncontainable love and joy. Every smile, every laughter, every touch bore testament to a love story that, though written in the stars, found its expression in the tangible beauty of intricate decorations, the ethereal glow of the venue, and the radiant smiles of the newlyweds.

Yet amongst the grandeur and the spectacles, it was the intimate, unuttered moments that lingered. The soft kiss shared post vows, the familial warmth encapsulated in speeches, and the unspoken promises reflected in the eyes of the bride and groom were just the preamble to a love story that will last forever, echoing through the corridors of time.

Congratulations Gayatri & Shyam!

How did you meet your Groom, and when did you know he was "the one"?
I met my Groom at a tattoo shop in Singapore 6 years ago. I know, not your generic-meet cute at a bar. We were both interning in Singapore during our summer breaks in college and happened to match on a dating app then. By the time we were ready to go on a date, Shyam had less than a week left before his flight back to the United States, and the evening he was going to get his first tattoo was the earliest we could meet, so we did.
After he got his tattoo, we went on a romantic walk by the Clarke Quay River and talked for hours. One of the conversation topics was what he wanted to name his future child and why - I knew at that moment that I wanted the same for myself. I think I hoped he was "the one" that night itself, but I didn't know for sure. At that time, I lived in Seattle, and he was in Michigan, and years of long-distance after just three dates seemed daunting. The first time he told me he loved me was when I knew for sure.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Due to the long distance and my family living in Singapore, Shyam & I were never able to be in the same place for my birthday despite having been together for four and a half years. So I knew he wanted this one to be extra special. He planned an entire weekend trip to Cancun for it and kept every activity a complete surprise. I didn’t even know which resort we would be in till we got there.

After 2 days of adventure and exploration, Shyam had one last surprise activity planned before a romantic dinner, so we dressed accordingly and went for it. As we got closer, the activity coordinators said they needed to blindfold us - which I thought was suspicious, but since Shyam was blindfolded too, I didn’t question it. Little did I know he took his off immediately and got down on one knee. I took mine off, yelled in surprise, and said, “Yes,” and the rest is history.

Pro-tip for anyone reading this who is planning to propose: I was really taken aback because when we had vaguely discussed getting married in the past, he had always hinted at proposing during a timeframe that was 6 months after when he actually proposed. Mislead your partner if you want to surprise them!

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 venue actually ended up being the first venue we ever visited! Shyam always wanted an indoor wedding (he didn’t want us to worry about wind or rain), and I always thought ballrooms were a little too closed in. That narrowed down our options to estates and villas, so when I came across Knotting Hill Place with its castle-style property, expansive landscaping, and massive ceremony hall windows, it was an instant yes!
I picked my outfit at Aso Palav Ahmedabad, and my mother-in-law knew it was the one the moment I put it on because of the spring wedding vibes it gave, which was perfect for our May wedding. I actually ended up passing out from food poisoning the day we picked my jewelry, but thankfully, my husband and our parents helped me make that decision. The decor for the wedding was meant to be simple and elegant, while our reception decor was where we really invested a ton of creativity, and we loved watching that play out on the day of. Hair & makeup was an easy decision once I realized that I wanted a reasonably priced artist who was an expert in dark skin and young and familiar with new-age makeup products; my makeup artist really made magic happen that day. We also loved our DJ Riz; he was great with uplighting and hyping up our crowd, but our favorite vendor of all time was Tommy from Thompson Studios - he was the ultimate hype man and he and our amazing photographer, Hubert, did a great job ensuring we were enjoying ourselves throughout the weekend.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
R. I always knew I wanted a red outfit with gold jewelry because that was what I felt said “bride” in our culture. The hues of red and gold I wore on our wedding day felt like armor that was painstakingly crafted by generations of aunts, moms & grandmothers who dressed the same way when they started their married lives.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The dance choreography and practice sessions! My husband was on a competitive dance team during his time at the University of Michigan and has always been an incredible choreographer. I already miss our practice sessions from when he would teach us our first dance because we would often break out into laughter and have dedicated time just to have fun in the midst of the stressful logistics that come with wedding planning.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Every guest loved the many dance performances! Besides that, I thought this guest summarized what he enjoyed best:

“The entire event was truly spectacular, and every detail was meticulously arranged. Gayatri looked absolutely radiant, and Shyam was handsomely charming. It was evident that they were deeply in love, and their happiness was contagious, filling the atmosphere with warmth and joy.

From the stunning venue to the exquisite decorations, everything was picture-perfect. The ceremony itself was a heartfelt reflection of their love and commitment to each other. It was a privilege to witness their vows and be a part of this special occasion.

I must also commend you and your family for your gracious hospitality. You ensured that every guest felt welcomed and cherished throughout the celebration. Your dedication and efforts truly made the event memorable for everyone involved.”

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
So many! I’m still very head-in-the-clouds from our wedding; all I can think about is how sweet our grandparents were, how Shyam kissed me right after I walked down the aisle, how competitive he was during the ring fishing game right after our ceremony, how much our Masi’s speeches made us cry, how cute our parents looked when dancing, how helpful our brothers were every step of the way, how funny they and our emcees were - the list goes on!

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.
Having an intimate Mehendi with our closest family and friends as the first event was so much fun. Everyone got to meet each other in a very relaxed setting in a beautiful garden.
We also loved how participative everyone was during our Garba - even guests who had never done it before! Having a big enough space for Garba is key; we had an entire hall for it instead of just a dance floor, and it was incredible to watch all our guests come together and spin in such a large space.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Keep your engagement period around 12 months if you can. Ours was a few months longer, and it was by the 12-month mark that we began to go stir-crazy and wished the wedding was already done. Having enough time to plan is key, but having too much can be frustrating in the long run!
Lastly, prepare to cry! I never thought I would, but Shyam and I shed so many tears through every speech during our Sangeet and reception.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
Having dippin dots at our Wedding was a hit!! If you can get them, we highly recommend it :)
Join us in celebrating the beginning of more adventures, and may love continue to inspire us all.

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