The Platinum Guide Blog

Some weddings feel like an escape. Others feel like a dream you never want to wake up from. Racheal & Andrew’s breathtaking Riviera Nayarit celebration somehow managed to be both.

Set against the sparkling Pacific coastline at our Platinum Guide venue Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, this destination wedding was the perfect blend of tropical luxury, timeless romance, and elevated South Asian wedding traditions. Every moment unfolded beneath swaying palms, ocean breezes, and golden sunsets that seemed determined to outperform every wedding photographer’s expectations. And somehow, they almost did. From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere felt less like a wedding weekend and more like an immersive luxury experience thoughtfully designed around love, family, and celebration. Destination weddings have a unique way of slowing everyone down and bringing people together, and Racheal & Andrew’s celebration embraced that spirit beautifully.

Of course, creating a wedding experience this seamless takes an incredible team behind the scenes. Working together, Carly Rose Events and Orlando Designer Weddings orchestrated every detail with precision and creativity. From guest experiences to event transitions, every aspect of the weekend felt effortless while still carrying a strong sense of personality and intentional design. Destination weddings often involve countless moving pieces, yet guests were able to simply relax and enjoy every moment—a true testament to exceptional planning.

Visually, the celebration was nothing short of stunning. Mayte Romero Weddings transformed the spaces with breathtaking floral and décor installations that perfectly complemented the natural beauty of Riviera Nayarit. Rather than competing with the oceanfront setting, the design enhanced it—layering romantic blooms, elegant textures, and sophisticated details throughout the celebration. The result felt luxurious, organic, and incredibly romantic all at once.

Meanwhile, the design vision from Orlando Designer Weddings helped create an atmosphere that flowed beautifully from one event to the next. Every celebration felt unique while still contributing to a cohesive wedding story—one that reflected the couple's style and the destination's natural beauty.

Racheal looked absolutely radiant throughout the festivities, with beauty styling by C E Salon enhancing her effortless elegance. Whether surrounded by ocean views, vibrant décor, or intimate family moments, she embodied the perfect balance of timeless bridal beauty and destination wedding glamour.

Adding another beautiful layer of tradition to the celebrations was the intricate artistry of Mehndi by Veronica. The delicate mehndi designs became both a meaningful cultural element and a stunning detail woven into the overall bridal experience.

As daylight transitioned into evening, the wedding atmosphere transformed once again. Elegant lighting design by Celtrevaudiovisual illuminated the celebration beautifully, creating a romantic glow that carried guests from emotional ceremony moments into an unforgettable evening of celebration. There’s something magical about destination weddings after sunset—the ocean air, the candlelight, the sound of laughter drifting through the evening—and this wedding embraced all of it perfectly.

But beyond the beautiful décor and incredible setting, what made the weekend truly memorable was the connection shared between Racheal & Andrew. Every glance, every smile, and every quiet moment together felt genuine and deeply rooted in friendship, partnership, and love. It’s the kind of connection that naturally becomes the heart of every celebration, no matter how grand the setting.

Capturing every breathtaking detail was Jorge Mercado Photography, whose imagery beautifully preserved the emotion, elegance, and natural beauty of the weekend. From sweeping oceanfront portraits to intimate candid moments, every frame feels rich with storytelling and authenticity. Their work effortlessly balanced the grandeur of the destination with the personal moments that mattered most.

Racheal & Andrew’s Riviera Nayarit wedding was everything a destination celebration should be: romantic, immersive, joyful, and unforgettable. A weekend where tropical paradise met timeless wedding traditions, creating memories that will undoubtedly be treasured for generations to come.

Follow us for more breathtaking wedding inspiration and destination wedding magic.

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Some weddings are elegant. Some are emotional. And then there are weddings like Sarah & Sanjit’s—where oceanfront romance, high-energy celebration, and effortlessly stylish details collide to create the kind of wedding weekend guests immediately start comparing every future wedding to. You know the type. The “nothing will ever top this” kind.

Set against the breathtaking California coastline at The Waterfront Beach Resort, this celebration perfectly balanced laid-back coastal beauty with the grandeur and vibrancy South Asian weddings are known and loved for. From the moment guests arrived, every detail felt immersive, joyful, and beautifully intentional—like stepping directly into a luxury wedding editorial where everyone somehow also happened to be having the time of their lives.

The ceremony unfolded on the stunning Vista Lawn, where ocean breezes and golden California sunlight created an atmosphere so dreamy it almost looked unreal. Almost. Surrounded by elegant floral artistry from BRG Events, the mandap became the centerpiece of a celebration that felt equal parts romantic and regal. Soft textures, lush blooms, and thoughtful design elements transformed the waterfront setting into a modern Maharani fairytale.

And Sarah? Absolutely radiant. With flawless beauty styling by OC Beauty, she embodied timeless bridal elegance while still feeling herself effortlessly—arguably the ultimate bridal achievement. Beside her, Sanjit brought calm confidence and undeniable joy, creating the kind of chemistry photographers dream about capturing.

Of course, behind every seamless South Asian wedding is a planner quietly managing approximately one million moving pieces while making it all appear effortless. Chic Productions orchestrated the weekend beautifully, ensuring every event flowed with ease while still allowing the couple’s personality and love story to remain at the center of it all. From guest experience to timeline execution, the entire celebration felt polished without ever losing warmth or intimacy.

And then came the baraat. Because no matter how elegant the décor may be, once the baraat starts, all bets are officially off. Our Platinum Guide member, My Fairytale Carriage, delivered a picture-perfect entrance worthy of royalty, bringing an unforgettable sense of tradition and grandeur to the celebration. Combined with the nonstop energy from Desi Beat Collective, the festivities quickly transformed into the kind of joyful chaos South Asian weddings do best. Between live music, dynamic lighting, and packed dance floors, guests fully committed to celebrating Sarah & Sanjit with the enthusiasm of people who absolutely were not worried about sore feet the next morning.

And honestly? We respect that level of dedication. Guests also enjoyed incredible cuisine by Natraj, whose flavorful menu added another memorable layer to the already immersive experience. Meanwhile, the elegant reception at Breakwater blended coastal sophistication with candlelit romance, allowing the evening to transition beautifully from heartfelt moments into a full-scale celebration.

Capturing every meaningful glance, emotional embrace, and dance floor takeover was our Platinum Guide member, Lulan Studio, whose photography and cinematography preserved the wedding weekend with breathtaking artistry. Their storytelling style beautifully balanced cinematic grandeur with authentic emotion, documenting not only how stunning the celebration looked, but how deeply it was felt. Every image radiates warmth, movement, and connection in a way that makes viewers feel like they were right there beside the couple throughout the weekend.

Sarah & Sanjit’s wedding was the perfect fusion of coastal luxury and vibrant South Asian tradition—elegant yet joyful, grand yet deeply personal. A celebration filled with love, laughter, music, and the kind of oceanfront magic that lingers long after the final dance song ends.

End your scroll with inspiration—visit us for stunning celebrations and dreamy coastal ideas.

My Fairytale Carriage Co and Lulan Studio are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Some weddings are elegant. Some are energetic. And then there are weddings like Teju & Samin’s—where timeless sophistication meets a dance floor that absolutely refuses to behave. With a refined venue, an experienced planning team, and a guest list ready to celebrate, the wedding unfolded like a beautifully choreographed story—complete with a few unforgettable plot twists on the dance floor.

The Hyatt Regency Greenwich offers a setting that feels both stately and intimate. Its soaring ceilings and signature atrium create a dramatic yet welcoming backdrop for large-scale Indian celebrations. It’s the kind of venue that elevates décor instantly—and when paired with the right creative team, it becomes pure magic. Behind the seamless execution was Chandai Events, a trusted Platinum Guide member known for orchestrating South Asian weddings with precision and heart. From timeline management to vendor coordination, Chandai’s planning ensured every ritual, reveal, and reception moment flowed effortlessly. Platinum Guide members are recognized for their excellence and consistency in serving the South Asian wedding community, and this celebration was a shining example of that standard in action.

Exclusive Events transformed the reception space into a floral dreamscape layered with texture, color, and intentional design. Her glam by Cinderella Bridez was flawless from start to finish—luminous skin, defined eyes, and a look that transitioned seamlessly from ceremony grace to reception glow. The ceremony was steeped in meaning, honoring tradition while celebrating the union of two families. Sacred rituals unfolded beneath stunning décor, surrounded by loved ones whose emotions were written clearly across their faces. It was intimate despite the scale—a testament to thoughtful planning and heartfelt intention.

Bukhara Grill delivered a culinary experience that kept guests happily circling back for seconds (and possibly thirds). Rich flavors, beautifully presented dishes, and the unmistakable comfort of authentic Indian cuisine ensured the evening was as delicious as it was dazzling. But let’s talk about the music. With both DJ USA Events and DJ KKV commanding the soundscape, the night evolved into a high-energy celebration that felt more like a concert than a reception. Seamlessly blending Bollywood hits, crowd favorites, and dance anthems, they read the room with precision—keeping every generation engaged. The dance floor? Packed. The vibes? Immaculate.

Capturing every emotional glance, intricate detail, and dance floor spin was Unique Vision Studio. Their photography and cinematography brought a storytelling lens to the entire weekend. From soft ceremony moments to dynamic reception energy, their work preserves not just how the day looked—but how it felt. What makes this Greenwich wedding unforgettable isn’t just the décor, the venue, or even the epic dance floor (though all were exceptional). It’s the balance. Tradition honored. Modern energy embraced. Family-centered. Joy amplified.

Teju & Samin’s wedding was a beautiful reminder that Indian weddings are immersive experiences—where sacred rituals meet celebratory chaos in the best possible way. Where elegance and exuberance exist side by side. Where love takes center stage—and everyone else happily joins in.

Maharanis, build a team that understands your vision. Trust in our Platinum Guide professionals. 

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Welcome back, sweeties. Let me transport you to a world where love blossoms and dreams come true! Today, we will peek at Stephanie & Neal's incredible wedding. Nestled along the picturesque coastline, the Paséa Hotel & Spa set the stage for an unforgettable celebration of love. The panoramic views of the glistening ocean created a sense of serenity and awe. With its impeccable service and attention to detail, the venue ensured that every aspect was nothing short of perfection. Opal Event Planning & Design worked magic, ensuring every element reflected the couple's love story. From the enchanting decor to the seamless coordination, they created a magical atmosphere that left everyone spellbound. Capturing every heartfelt moment was One Story Weddings, their lenses weaving a tale of love through breathtaking photographs. Let your heart be swept away, and indulge in the beauty of this fantastic gallery. You will love every moment of it!

Thank you for taking the time to read this love story, Maharanis. Stay tuned for more features!

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Greetings, Maharanis! Let us take you on a romantic journey of Priya & Ronak's wedding, a celebration of love and unity that left everyone in awe. The wedding began with the Baraat, where Ronak made his grand entrance, accompanied by the electrifying beats of 3D Sounds. The ceremony was at Pacific Palms Resort, a stunning venue that provided the perfect backdrop for the couple's special day. Dharmasetu Dasa led the ceremony, beautifully narrated the couple's love story, and conducted the rituals. Shilpa Patel Events was responsible for planning and design, and they outdid themselves. Our lovebirds wanted to go as traditional Gujarati as possible with the aesthetics; therefore, Tip Top Event Designs wowed them with vibrant umbrellas, street food-style stalls, and mehndi and gift stations. Our Maharani made the signs by tweaking colorful Canva templates and printing them on foam boards. Design By Shivani was responsible for creating Priya's stunning wedding attire. Beauty by Lishma left no stone unturned when it comes to bridal styling. Priya looked gorgeous in her bridal attire, with the draping and styling perfectly done. Beauty by Lishma truly exceeded all expectations regarding Priya's hair, makeup, and mehndi. Her skillful makeup application created a flawless and radiant look for the bride, highlighting her natural beauty and enhancing her features. The mehndi designs were intricate and stunning, adding elegance and beauty to the bride's look. Her attention to detail and creativity was evident in every aspect of the bride's styling, and it is clear that she is a master of her craft. The Tangled-inspired reception was just as stunning, with lanterns, lights, the single gold sun on the cake from The Cake Korner, a fantastic DJ from 3D Sounds, and incredible food by Jay Bharat and Mantra. The event was a remarkable testament to the power of love and unity. We invite you to look at this lovely wedding gallery that Lin and Jirsa Photography captured in all its beauty. It is a true reflection of love, joy, and happiness! Enjoy it!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
I love Halloween (including bats), Tangled, and anything related to Japan. On a trip to Austin, Texas, Ronak took me to the Congress Bridge to watch the bat emergency at dusk, but they never came out because it was too cold! Then we walked over to Butler Metro Park, where I spotted a lantern floating into the sky. "What is that," I asked, squinting, "let's follow it!" Many more lanterns were set up on a dock overlooking a pond by Ronak's friend. At the end of the dock, Ronak got down on one knee and proposed a beautiful custom rose-gold teardrop lab diamond ring with a halo! We then ended the night at the Japanese restaurant Uchi. The proposal was the imperfectly perfect blend of all my favorite things!

What did your guests particularly love about your wedding?
Welcoming and organized feel: Shilpa Patel Events provided the most organized, smooth-running production with meticulous planning, attentive staff, and plenty of signage to guide all the guests. Our priest Dharmasetu Dasa explained everything from the ceremony in English, which was appreciated by so many of our guests. There was a breakfast and afternoon snack room for refreshments in between events and a welcome bag arranged for everyone staying at the hotel. Guests were engaged and taken care of for the whole weekend.

Personal touches: From my mom's dance with her friends at the Garba to my parents coming out on stage at the reception doing the Garba, there were several personal touches that made the wedding so special. One highlight included my last-minute choreographed dance entrance down the aisle with my "mamas" (maternal uncles). Probably the most fun personal touch was Ronak's arrival for the baraat in an open-top rickshaw from LA Rickshaw. Our reception favors were chopsticks in colorful sleeves for our love of ramen - we picked something so non-Indian, but we felt it reflected a part of us very well!

Florals: The very thick, dense flower arrangements framing the mandap courtesy of the very talented Tip Top Event Designs were one of the most impressive that our guests had ever seen. My dad surprised me by okaying in advance the jaw-droppingly beautiful peach floral Ganesh in the background of the mandap that looked like it was floating in midair; I didn't notice it until midway through the ceremony! The floral colors were very distinctly different in the evening, matching the darker theme.

And of course the food! Our food vendors truly brought their best flavors and quality, and the variety of foods was staggering. The traditional Gujarati lunch was the best some guests had ever tasted. The diversity of street food-style stalls from Indian to Mexican at the Garba kept everyone coming back for more. The Punjabi dishes by Mantra at the reception were divine. We even served the famous Cassata Slice Ice Cream by Vadilal during the ceremony and had Indian sweets from Surti Farsan to-go at the end of the night.

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 my Grah Shanti/Vidhi-Pithi and Mehndi, we opted for a homey feel in our family friends' backyard decorated with colorful trinkets and bright backdrops. The morning was simple and laid back, with a light lunch served. The evening was complete with song and dance, an amazing live Dosa Bar, and a tableful of sweets.

I wanted the classic, bright yellow color with the dhoti look for my Pithi. I found a modern version of what I was looking for, designed by Soman Luthria through Kynah, and added floral jewelry and a headpiece handmade in India by a family friend.

I had always wanted to wear Papa Don't Preach by Shubhika, and they had just dropped a new collection at the time I was looking for an Indo-Western look for my mehndi. I especially loved the color combination and the unique cape style.

For the Garba, we wanted to go as traditional Gujarati as possible with the aesthetics. Our decorator wowed with vibrant umbrellas, street food-style stalls, and mehndi and gift stations. I made the signs myself by tweaking existing colorful Canva templates and having them printed on foam boards. We even had one that said, "Patel-Shukla Dukaan" ("Patel-Shukla Shop") for the gift table.

I am in awe of the painstaking work that Kalpana's Creations put into my fully customized Garba choli by hand, complete with puff sleeves and an extra-large skirt circumference. A side braid and choker necklace completed the look. The most fantastic aspect of this outfit was the perfectly matching groom's kurta and vest that tied the entire color scheme and theme together.

I wanted the reception to be Tangled-inspired, just like Ronak's proposal, but with a twist of dark colors so the multitude of smaller lights really stood out. There were subtle themes of Tangled, such as lanterns and the gold sun from the movie on the cake. Then there was the obvious homage - the Tangled scene drink menus. I was inspired to find a unique version of "I See the Light" from the movie; I couldn't believe there was such a beautiful Hindi version, and we played this version while cutting the cake. After a few fun dance performances and speeches in, the party started with the huge LED screen and sparklers (glow sticks and sparklers are a must for bringing the party!). The LED screen had endless displays, including photos of the ceremony earlier in the day.

I went for a non-conventional dark-colored lehenga by Seema Gujral for my reception outfit, but it still shined because of the sequins and complemented the bold color scheme so well. I wore my hair down with striking gold eyeshadow and green and gold jewelry set to match the outfit.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
Wedding ceremony decor: We decided on soft peach and green with white and gold accents for the overall color scheme of the ceremony. We had a peach rather than a white canopy to incorporate our palette in a unique way. The florals incorporated just the right amount of green leaves. I designed the programs and signage on Canva and wrote the descriptions and a blend of those provided by the priest and a cousin's previous wedding program. Finishing touches were made by Tip Top, including metal lanterns and decorative pieces.

Wedding ceremony outfit: I found Designs by Shivani by chance on Etsy after I scrolled past this floral lehenga concept that I had seen after months of scouring the internet for a unique wedding outfit. I had initially been dead-set on wearing peach (or green), but after I saw that, I asked myself when I would ever wear red like this again, I might as well feel like a real Indian bride! My mom randomly found the second magenta dupatta in a pile of spare dupattas for sale in a random shop, which was the final piece that tied the whole outfit together! The matching matte red eyeshadow was the perfect finish to the overall red look.

Bridesmaids outfits: After endless searching, I stumbled upon a bridesmaids lehenga design that I finally loved by Nazranaa, NJ, and I swapped the colors for a few pastels that were incorporated into my wedding lehenga. The outfits turned out truly flawless! My favorites to my bridesmaids and moms were Sani lounge sets which were the perfect blend of an Indian design with amazing quality and utility.

Groom sherwani and pagri: Ronak's ceremony sherwani matched the floral theme of my lehenga, and the colors were customized to our peach and green theme while still maintaining the white base for the traditional element. The peach pagri was the perfect complement to the green and gold groomsmen outfits.

Groomsmen outfits: The groomsmen kurtas were customized with Rajoo India. The deep green was a contrast to pastel bridesmaids' outfits while still incorporating the dark green shade of the leaves in the floral arrangements and in the wedding ceremony lehenga.

Loves, thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more inspiring weddings from our Maharani brides!

Beauty by Lishma is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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