The Platinum Guide Blog

Thanmayi & Depak's nuptials unfolded in the elegant View at Bluemont, surrounded by lush landscapes that converged into a paradise. Diego Stuart's masterful cinematography captured every smile and glance shared under the tender, amber glow of the sun. It was a dance of light and shadows echoing the eternal dance of two souls in love. Darcey Generazio's adept planning and design brought celestial allure to every detail. Petal N' Bloom's flowers and decor created a tapestry of colors that infused romance into the atmosphere. Thanmayi was clad in stunning creations by Mokshaa, making her the queen of Deepak's heart. Beauty by Oni's expertise in hair and makeup transformed her into a celestial being, radiating grace under the starry night sky. DJ Kabir's music from Desi Beatzs Entertainment filled the air with promises and dreams of matrimony. Ishan Fotografi captured ethereal moments, where the weave of tradition and profound intimacy portrayed a painting of love. Each photograph testifies to a bond that transcends time. Every frame is a sonnet, and every smile is a verse in this poetic rendition of love. Explore the gallery for more details. Enjoy!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!

Picture this: The glimmering NYC skyline, a mesmerizing sunset, and a rooftop filled with my best friends. Absolute perfection! And oh, those butterflies? 100% real! Even though I had a hunch it was coming, the effort Depak put in was heart-melting. He didn't just book any spot; he got an NYC rooftop, ensuring every detail was on point. And can we talk about the ring? The dreamy sapphire and diamond combo I'd always wished for!

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

Shoutout to my mother-in-law - Mala Kumar for being the ultimate wedding fashion guru! My vision was a beige-pink South Indian Kanjivaram saree, which we magically found in Chennai. And for the lehenga, I wanted to go all in - a royal blue stunner with silver work. I wanted a bolder color for the reception vs. the ceremony. It was the perfect contrast to the morning hues. The quest was for countless months, endless facetime sessions with different clothing store owners, and many late-night chats because of the time zones.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Our mission was to find THAT ONE venue where our loved ones would be spellbound! Everyone helped to find the perfect venue including both our families and friends. From chic wedding halls and plush hotels to enchanting vineyards and rustic barns, our weekends were packed with back-to-back venue tours. The moment I stepped into our chosen venue - The View at Bluemont, it was Love at first sight, thanks to the breathtaking view! We immediately stopped searching after that tour.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?

Our guests were head over heels for our mountain-top venue in the picturesque valleys of Bluemont, Virginia. All the guests appreciated the finer details of all our customizations, such as handheld fans with our names on them, a table seating arrangement chart with our picture hidden under all the names, an audio guestbook, and a wedding newspaper (this was the biggest hit!)

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?

With Depak hailing from Sri Lanka and me, from South India, our wedding was a vibrant cultural fiesta! Despite our cultural differences, all the family members embraced each other's customs and beliefs, which made it more memorable. From the NYC skyline making a cameo in my bridal mehendi to the hilarious moment when Depak’s friends tore his kurta post-haldi (his shocked face: priceless!), it was a rollercoaster of emotions. The playful garland duel, the electrifying baraat with dhol and ghana – every moment was cinematic. And Depak's dance? Who knew he had those moves hidden up his sleeve? But one thing remained consistent - my ear-to-ear grin, which was pretty much permanent!

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?

Just have lots of fun.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)

Mehendi included – the NYC skyline, our first date spot – Dominic Ansel bakery, Pikachu, Elephants – depaks favorites, and our favorite show – Ted lasso.

We opted for traditional temple jewelry for the ceremony and a beautiful diamond set for the reception.

The venue was first founded by my father-in-law from Sri Lanka. He found it online and after looking at the venue it was so difficult to say no. It was majestic.

All the pre-wedding events were done by my aunt - Neelima Gogineni at her home. She put in tremendous effort in getting the backdrops and doing a trial run with all of them before the actual event.

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

Ishan Fotografi | Husband & Wife Wedding Photographers and Diego Stuart Films are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Sweeties, immerse yourselves in the euphoria and grandeur of Aanchal & Ananth's majestic wedding at The Rockleigh. Its luxurious grounds and expansive ballrooms made it the ideal choice for this couple. Every detail was intricately planned and designed by Xquisit Events, and Nirali Decor captured the soul and essence of their love. Aanchal was clothed in the sumptuous fabrics of Tulsi Silks, Koskii & Sundari Silks, every thread woven with blessings and the tender touch of a thousand loving hands. The meticulous artistry of Cinderella Bridez accentuated her grace and elegance. The Mehndi, meticulously crafted by GK Henna, told tales of promises and dreams. Ananth was donned in the majestic creation of Manyavar. And oh, the euphoria of the celebrations was lifted to the celestial realms by the melodious tunes spun by Shilpa Entertainment, each note weaving through the air, kissing the soul of every guest, birthing dances and smiles as radiant as the moonlight. Moghul Catering tantalized the senses with delicious plates. Studio KSD captured every special moment of this magnificent event. With their vibrant style and personal approach, they captured images that will remind them of the love and happiness of the day. Enjoy today's gallery!

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

Shilpa Entertainment, The Rockleigh and Studio KSD are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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In a picturesque setting reminiscent of a fairy tale, Angel & Ankit celebrated their love at the mesmerizing Lake Chateau Banquets. With the magic touches from Makeup by Hena, Angel gleamed with elegance, her beauty amplified with every detail. Ankit was the epitome of dapper charm, thanks to the meticulous turban service by New York Turban Tying Service, a reflection of our rich traditions and modern flair combined. Sahil Wedding Planner seamlessly and impeccably orchestrated this union with flair and precision. The atmosphere was filled with melodies and beats from DJ 1E Entertainment. Taj Catering served experiences through the exquisite flavors, leaving the guests in awe. The most important person who really made this wedding look nice and big was Virdee Films Photo & Cinema. They truly outshined at this wedding, capturing fleeting moments and translating them into eternal memories. Each frame they curated not only encapsulated the sheer joy and emotion of the day. The cinematic captures elegantly wove together the essence of the day, taking anyone who viewed them on a beautiful journey back to the couple's most cherished moments. 

How did you meet your Groom, and when did you know he was "the one"?
We met at the hotel where we used to work together. Ankit was always loving and caring right from the first day, and to be honest, I knew right from the beginning HE WAS THE ONE.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
We were out on 19th Aug to Times Square. He told me to get ready as he hired some photographers to take our pictures. I had no idea of anything. When I was at Times Square, I suddenly saw on a large screen at Time, “Angel, will you marry me?” and 3 pics of us together. I was having goosebumps as I didn't know what was going on. I was totally surprised. In a few seconds, I got back to my senses and said YES to my love.

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.
Planning a wedding was really hectic as we did in less than 4 weeks. The proposal was on 19th Aug 2022, and the wedding was on 27th Sept 2022. We decided around 29th Aug that we were going get married in Sept
My husband did most of the running work from finding Vendors, Wedding Planner, and Venues. I went at the last on most things to finalize and to see them. Decorations we both selected together after going through some samples

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Do you have a favorite color in mind?
I selected Wedding lengha from NAZARANA in Edison. I went to Nazrana Boutique first and found my lehnga, but my husband insisted on checking other places too, and I did, but for some reason, I was stuck to the one I chose at first and bought it. Which was a very good decision as everyone loved that attire

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Shopping was the most hectic and fun part because it was the first time you got a real Licence to shop, and you could buy anything from jewelry to Bridal dresses and make-up, and no one could say no coz you were the BRIDE.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Guests particularly loved how I and my husband had bonded together. Pretty much each and every one of them said that we were made for each other, and I loved that part most, apart from that they loved the Food which was from the Taj caterer and also our performances.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
7 pheras and Varmala ceremony. That was the most memorable moment for me. From childhood, we dream that it will happen one day, and when it happens, and the person is really the love of your life you wanted, there is no better feeling than that. I still rewind and watch them every now and then.

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.
Decor we kept very simple but elegant. We wanted to have a light Pink color, and it went really well with our attire.
Dances were the most lively part of our reception. Our reception highlights when we put it on social media, it got so many views and plays. All the performances were very good, and the speeches made were memorable.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Words of wisdom for brides-to-be is “ Give everything in your relation to make it work.” There is no He/she but only we.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
I can keep going on and on, but the most and most important person who really made this wedding look nice and big was “VIRDEE FILMS.” I have never seen such professionalism, but on top of that, being such a humble person and accepting each and every request from Bride, groom, and family is remarkable. Everyone loved our pre-wedding videos on the wedding day. And Wedding and reception highlights are played every time our relatives come home. So special special, special thanks to Virdee films. Thanks

We hope you enjoy today's feature, darlings. Cheers to love and the endless possibilities it brings!

Virdee Films Photo & Cinema is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Sweeties, imagine the sun setting softly over the verdant sprawls of the Orange Tree Golf Resort & Golf Club, casting a golden hue upon every leaf and blade of grass. Every inch of their celebration whispered romance, from the meticulous planning & design of Desert North Event Planning to the enchanting floral arrangements by Kori & Ana Flower Shop. Ciara's hair was styled with elegance by KBGlam, and her makeup, a portrait of grace by Makeup by Nadia, perfectly complemented the bridal gowns she donned - one a modern masterpiece by Pronovias and the other, a traditional ode from Adi Mohini Mohan Kanjilal Heritage Saree House. Remember the gleaming jewelry that adorned her, all thanks to the exquisite collection from P.C. Chandra Jewellers—the evening resonated with foot-tapping melodies courtesy of AZ Mix Masters. Between dances and heartfelt toasts, the guests were treated to an enticing culinary journey by Twisted Curry Cuisine. As night draped the venue, the shimmering lights seemed to dance in tandem with the love in the air, a spectacle beautifully captured by Santiago Almada Photography. Each click of Santiago's camera tells a tale, an intimate whisper of joy, love, or a fleeting second of pure serendipity. Delve into today's gallery and enjoy!

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?

Matt and I met when we had class together, during our second year of law school. One day in the library, I finally worked up the courage to ask the cute guy in my immigration class the homework assignment as an excuse to strike up conversation. He gave me the assignment but didn't take the bait on any further conversation so I walked away, thinking, "At least I can say I tried!". As law school went on, we got to know each other better, became friends, and we both ended up moving to Phoenix after graduation. We became closer and closer and our friends would often ask us over the years why we weren't together. I think they knew before we did! The perfect timing proved crucial, because once we decided to give dating a chance, the rest was history!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!

Matt and I took a road trip up the California coast, stopping along scenic overlooks on the Pacific Coast Highway. It's a road that hugs the ocean and is breathtakingly beautiful. We rented a convertible and enjoyed each other's company on the long drive up, stopping at smaller coastal towns. We ended up in Napa, where Matt had worked with a proposal planner at Castello de Amorosa (Castle of Love) Winery to plan the perfect proposal!

We started the day with a private tour of the grounds, and of the castle. We did some tastings, and afterwards were led to a tower that overlooks the vineyard. As we climbed the steps up, I realized there was a trail of rose petals, a bouquet of flowers and sparkling wine chilling in a bucket. I thought to myself: this would be the perfect place to propose! There was a wall that would have been a great place for a photographer to hide. Knowing that Matt had recently asked my parents permission to marry me (which was gladly granted), I looked over the wall but didn't see anyone. It wasn't until Matt got down on one knee that I knew the set up was for MY proposal. Matt had a speech written and I vividly remember the shutter of the camera from the photographer who was indeed behind that very wall (but did a great job of hiding!). There were happy tears, and the easiest "yes" I've ever said!

Matt proposed with a gorgeous custom designed ring, working closely with the jewelers to create a classic ring. It was the best surprise!

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.

I had always dreamt of a timeless, romantic wedding. It was important to me that I could look back at the photos and feel they were not dated, so I drew a lot of my inspiration from Old Bollywood and Old Hollywood. I wanted a classic look for my "white dress" wedding, so I went with pearls, and an A-line satin Pronovias gown. With sideswept Hollywood waves, I felt like a vintage starlet. I paired the gown with a cathedral lace edged veil, and a cascading bouquet. I had served on the board of the Phoenix Symphony Young Professionals so music for the moment was really important to me. It was a dream come true to have Symphony members comprise of the string quartet, and as I walked down the aisle, and the music swelled, there wasn't a dry eye (including from the groom!) in the audience. It was perfect!

For my Bengali wedding, I chose a classic vermillion and gold silk Banarasi sari, that I found with the help of the bridal concierge at Adi Mohini Mohan Kanjilal Heritage Saree House., one of the oldest bridal saree boutiques in Kolkata. I was going for "Devdas" old Bollywood glam vibes, and it was so special to me to wear custom vintage P.C. Chandra gold jewelry. It was a family heirloom set; the same golden set my mother wore to her wedding. On my wrists, I wore vintage golden bangles gifted by both my grandmothers and aunts, as a special way to honor them, since they could not travel to be there. A Bengali bride is not complete without the classic wedding bun, and I had real (super fragrant!) jasmine flowers hand carried all the way from New Jersey (where I grew up) to put in my hair. I was carried in on a pallanquin to shennai music, escorted by my brother and friends.

For my vendors, I really did have the dream team! Nadia, the lead makeup artist for Phoenix Fashion week, transformed me both days and captured the soft romantic vibe I was going for my American wedding and the dramatic Bollywood looks I wanted for both the ceremony and reception.

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

Maybe I'm a more traditional bride, but I couldn't imagine my wedding day without a classic red and gold lehenga and sari.

 What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?

The big day! Seeing it all come together after a lifetime of collecting inspiration, and over a year of intensive planning and waiting through COVID, the wedding weekend was an absolute dream come true. Our venue, Orange Tree Resort, was an oasis in the Arizona desert, complete with a gorgeous water fountain and lake, and made for a picturesque backdrop for both our ceremonies and reception.

 What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?

The food was a big hit! We found a Bengali caterer that cooked traditional wedding fare you can only find back in Kolkata. Our guests raved about the food, and the handmade Bengali desserts.

 Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?

I absolutely loved our first dance! For our grand entrance into the reception and first dance, I wore a red ballgown with elbow length white satin gloves, and Matt looked so handsome in his tuxedo. Matt and I both play the piano, so it was fitting we chose a piano cover of a waltz. Duet Dance Studio even trained me, the girl with two left feet, how to gracefully float across the ballroom in the arms of my groom! There's a moment in the song when Matt lifts me in the air, and I remember wanting that moment to last forever!

 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 haldi ceremony (or as we call it in Bengali, our "gaye holud" ceremony), we had both sides of the family wear yellow as they smeared us with turmeric. It made for the best pictures, and I loved that both sides of our families looked so festive and cohesive in traditional Indian garb! It was especially meaningful that my mom had handpicked the outfits for everyone on a recent trip to India. My in-laws all got "tothos" or gifts of their sarees and pyjama/punjabis laid out individually on trays marked especially for them. It was a beautiful way to honor the Bengali tradition of tothos and help us get ready for the big day with all the turmeric fun!

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?

The details are what make your wedding truly yours. Add your personality to the events, in small ways like custom cocktails (like we did) to honor your love story. Hire a dream team of vendors that will help you execute your vision. Don't be afraid to ask for help! Indian weddings are a full production and there's no way a bride can do it all herself. Similarly, when offered help, graciously accept it. Then, plan until you can't plan anymore and then cut yourself off, and commit to having a good time! Mindset is everything and remember, everyone is there to celebrate you and the groom! Remember to breathe, have fun and take it all in! It really does go by so quickly!

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

Santiago Almada Photography is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Hello, dears! As the first golden rays of dawn illuminated the sky, the ethereal ambiance of the Hard Rock Riviera Maya was the perfect setting for Sonam & Harshal's wedding. Every detail of the day was meticulously curated, and Sonam stepped out dressed in the dreamiest ensemble from Seema Gujral from Shop Kynah. Her radiant smile, further enhanced by the masterful art of Claudio Alejandro and Gamaliel Alvarez for hair & makeup, truly stole the show. iDo Celebrations led the planning & design, ensuring that every moment was flawlessly executed. The surroundings mirrored a fairy tale, with breathtaking flowers & decor by the geniuses at Zuniga, Etrios, and Tulipania. Patravali presented a culinary journey and added the perfect savory touch to the sweet love in the air. DJ Issac and Rahul spun the decks, weaving a tapestry of beats and melodies with everyone celebrating. Indian Destination Wedding, Inc. ensured every guest felt the warmth of hospitality and comfort throughout their stay, making this destination wedding a delightful experience for all. As the day unfolded, capturing these candid moments, emotions, and memories was Gareth Davies Photography encapsulating the essence of this grand day. Dive into the gallery!

Alright, Maharanis, I hope you enjoyed this story. Keep coming back for more romances and tips!

Indian Destination Wedding is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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