The Platinum Guide Blog

Serena & Harsh’s wedding was the kind of celebration that makes you want to pack a suitcase, grab a dhol, and crash the party. The couple transformed the lush coastline of Mexico into a South Asian wedding wonderland, and let’s say, every guest left with sun-kissed skin, sore feet from dancing, and enough memories to last a lifetime.

The festivities began at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, a true gem that set the stage for every moment of their magical weekend. This Platinum Guide venue is no stranger to grandeur, but for Serena & Harsh, it pulled out all the stops. From the sangeet that lit up the night with laughter and choreography worthy of a Netflix special, to a seaside ceremony where the mandap framed the Pacific like a living postcard, to a reception that shimmered under flawless lighting, they delivered at every turn.

No South Asian wedding ever “comes together,” and that’s where the dream team of vendors worked their magic. Nirali Shah Events was the maestro behind the planning and design, orchestrating a flow so seamless you’d think she had a magic wand tucked into her planner. From stationery to event design, her touch was everywhere, polished, purposeful, and impossibly chic. For blooms, Ale Magaña – Art & Flowers spun romance into reality, with arrangements that looked like they were plucked straight out of a fairytale.

The glam squad knew how to make an entrance, too. Ilume Artistry Co gave Serena her bridal glow, handled every draping and styling detail with grace, and left guests whispering, “Is it possible to look this flawless for three days straight?” On the mehndi side, Loto Mehndi brought intricate designs that guests admired almost as much as the bride’s jewelry by Sokora Jewels—pieces that gleamed like heirlooms yet felt refreshingly modern. Serena’s bridal fashion, courtesy of Seema Gujaral via Panache by Sharmeen, was a showstopper in every sense of the word.

Food and music are the heartbeat of any desi wedding, and this celebration had both in overdrive. Daawat Catering brought a menu that was a love letter to every guest’s taste buds. Meanwhile, DJ Jusi kept the beats pumping while Drums in Paradise set the baraat on fire—figuratively, of course, but the energy was as electric as it gets. By the time the dance floor opened, even the shyest uncle was channeling his inner Bollywood star.

And let’s not forget the groomsmen, suited to perfection in Gariani Menswear tuxedos, or the guests striking hilarious poses in Golden Photo Booth MX, ensuring that the memories were equal parts glamorous and goofy. For the behind-the-scenes artistry, Jagat Studios, another Platinum Guide powerhouse, captured every tear, twirl, and toast with the kind of detail that turns a wedding album into a cinematic treasure. Their photography and cinematography painted Serena and Harsh’s love story against the golden glow of Puerto Vallarta, and trust us—it’s one for the books.

Travel logistics? Handled. With Diana Germán Macedo as the travel concierge, guests arrived and departed without a single “lost luggage” horror story. Instead, they focused on cocktails by the pool and prepping for the next event on the calendar. This celebration was a masterpiece of culture, luxury, and unfiltered fun.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Harsh proposed on Sunset Beach in Dubai in December 2023! He told me we were just going to watch the sunset, but he secretly had a photographer waiting to capture the moment. When he got down on one knee with the Dubai skyline behind us and the sun setting over the water, it honestly couldn’t have been more perfect. We even did a little photoshoot afterward, and if you know me, you know I’m a total sucker for sunsets, so it was everything I could’ve dreamed of.

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 actually had so much fun planning my wedding! I had a clear vision for each event, which made the entire process feel organized and intentional. I didn’t want anything to feel too minimal or overly extravagant, and in the end, we had the perfect balance between decor and entertainment across every celebration.

I worked with Nirali Shah Events, and they were with me every step of the way throughout the year-long planning process. While wedding planning can definitely get stressful, Nirali always had an answer for everything and seamlessly coordinated all our vendors. Thanks to her and her team, everything came together even better than I imagined.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I worked with Panache by Sharmeen in Houston, Texas, and Sharmeen’s collection of bridal lehengas and event outfits is absolutely stunning. I ordered each one of my outfits from her. I originally thought I wanted something in pastel tones, but when I tried on an ivory Seema Gujral lehenga, I instantly fell in love. My mom had her heart set on pink or red, so we found the perfect balance: the ceremony decor was done entirely in shades of white, ivory, peach, pink and red, and our close family, bridesmaids, and groomsmen all wore pink to tie it together beautifully.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Working with Nirali Shah Events was truly the highlight of our entire planning process! Nirali and her team are one of a kind. They redefine what luxury means. I trusted her completely at every stage, even when it came to selecting our vendors, and that trust paid off in every possible way. Thanks to her meticulous attention to detail, every aspect of our wedding came together seamlessly, allowing us to fully relax and enjoy each event!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Walking down the aisle and seeing the sun shining on the mandap, with my parents right across from me, is a moment I’ll never forget. It looked and felt absolutely ethereal. And of course… the first look with my husband!

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 welcome party, we wanted a desert tropical vibe, relaxed yet vibrant, with everyone dressed in tropical chic to kick off our beachside wedding weekend. Harsh and I played the shoe game with both families hollering who they thought we would pick for each question. It was a great way to break the ice with everyone! By the end of the night, it turned into a full-on dance party, with everyone so excited to celebrate together.

Our Haldi was set against such breathtaking views that the scenery itself became the main decor. We just added a touch of charm with roses and beautiful pom seating to complete the setting. My family eventually tore off Harsh's shirt as tradition with "Turn the TV Off" by Kendrick playing in the background, specifically the "Mustard" part of the song. It was a hilarious touch by our DJ, DJ Jusi.

Our Sangeet was bright, colorful, and full of energy, complete with disco balls, a decorated shot wall with a custom sign stating "Masti and Mojitos", a checker board, pink and white dance floor, and a beautifully decorated head table. It was my favorite event of all, from the family performances to the garba that everyone ended up participating in and dance party, every moment flowed perfectly.

For our reception, we shifted the mood completely. With bold red and black accents, it was dramatic and refined. It was truly a stunning contrast to the vibrant, colorful events that came before. The change surprised everyone in the best way. We also had sparklers added during our entrance and our first dance, and that made the pictures pop!

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
If you’re debating whether to hire a day-of team, do it! You want to soak in every moment of your wedding, not worry about logistics. Having people you trust to flawlessly execute your vision is the best gift you can give yourself.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
I seriously can't give more props to our team of vendors. We were blessed with the best team of vendors!

Ready to start dreaming about your own unforgettable wedding? Follow us for more love stories.

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa and Jagat Studio are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Some weddings sparkle, and then some weddings positively dazzle. Monica & Manuj’s celebration fell squarely into the second category, leaving every guest in awe and giving us more than a few “how do we top this?” moments. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when tradition, glam, and a dash of playfulness come together in perfect harmony, this wedding is your answer.

The festivities began at Farmington Hills Manor, where the sangeet lit up the night with laughter, music, and dance moves that ranged from “Bollywood star” to “enthusiastic cousin giving it their all.” Guests reveled in a kaleidoscope of colors, and the anticipation for the big day was already buzzing. When the sun rose for the wedding ceremony, Wabeek Country Club transformed into the dreamiest canvas for love. Under a meticulously designed mandap by the extraordinary team at Marigold Wedding Planners — yes, our very own Platinum Guide gem — every petal and drape whispered luxury. From the aisle to the altar, it was a visual love letter to elegance and culture, perfectly balancing modern chic with timeless tradition.

The beauty didn’t stop there. Monica glowed like royalty with flawless artistry by JHobby Makeup Studio, and Manuj’s smile was proof enough that no detail had been overlooked. Meanwhile, guests were treated to culinary delights by Raj Palace, who knew exactly how to keep the energy high (because a happy dance floor always starts with good food, right?).

Speaking of dance floors, Sugar Events & Entertainment brought the beats that had everyone on their feet, from uncles in their sherwanis to aunties with the best bhangra shoulder shrugs in the business. And when Magda Violin Rocks took the stage with electrifying live strings, it was the kind of goosebump-inducing moment people will be talking about for years.

As the night rolled into the grand reception at the Meridian Banquet & Conference Center, the romance was sealed with a sweet finale courtesy of Arnold Cakes. Elegant, decadent, and almost too pretty to eat (nearly), the cake was the perfect cherry on top of a day filled with unforgettable memories.

No South Asian wedding is complete without the artistry of henna, and Pavi Henna Art delivered designs that were intricate, meaningful, and utterly Instagram-worthy. Every swirl and motif added a layer of tradition and beauty that made Monica shine even brighter. Behind every breathtaking detail was the vision and execution of Marigold Wedding Planners, who not only designed but also flawlessly orchestrated this multi-day extravaganza. From planning to floral artistry, they proved once again why they’re trusted with creating once-in-a-lifetime moments.

Capturing it all were the lens magicians at Rosy and Shaun Wedding Photography, who turned Monica and Manuj’s love story into timeless images. Their photography didn’t just document a wedding — it told a story frame by frame, equal parts cinematic and heartfelt.

Monica & Manuj’s wedding was a reminder that when love is celebrated with joy, culture, and artistry, the result is pure magic.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
It was modern dating with a twist! We met on good old Dil Mil, but had a few common friends who vetted for each other. The first message Manuj sent to me was "Punjabi, loves dogs/Mexican food, and enjoys the beach, check to all of that, when can the dholi come?" It was love at first text, and we knew how special it was that we connected. We spent the first year of dating long-distance, and eagerly waited to see one another every few weeks. They say you cannot take the Texas out of a man (and this is true!), but I took the man out of Texas! Manuj moved to Michigan for us, and our relationship flourished. I knew he was the one from all the compromises, unselfish love, and commitment he made.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
I think the absolute best part of our wedding that our guests and we loved was having our dog, Zen, be a part of our Haldi ceremony. Zen is the light of our life, and it was imperative he had a role in our wedding events. We were so touched that all our guests enjoyed his sweet company. He brought his good energy to our Haldi, and it is a forever memory!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Reading our vows aloud at the Hindu ceremony was the most special and loving moment. It was something we always wanted to do, and we're so happy to have that core memory. Our vows were vulnerable, raw, and we deeply expressed our profound love to each other.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Stay calm and enjoy the planning process (as much as you can!)
Once the wedding events begin, take a moment to process all that is going on because you blink and it's gone!
Share your favorite moments, and don’t forget to tag us; we love seeing our maharanis shine!

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

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Some couples meet on dating apps. Others meet at parties hosted by mutual friends. But Nikita & Rudra? Their love story started in middle school, where they were destined to sit next to each other because — plot twist — they shared the same last name.

If joy had a color, it would be marigold — and that's exactly the energy the couple channeled at their haldi. Nikita was stunned in a saffron saree with a white blouse that popped effortlessly against the backdrop of Portuguese-style tiles, blooming florals, and a bold yellow structure. Rudra matched her glow in a mustard embroidered kurta. The whole event radiated the warmth of their relationship — vibrant, laid-back, and filled with laughter (and, of course, turmeric). When Nikita's sister insisted on seeing "one last sculpture" during a girls' day at Grounds for Sculpture, Nikita didn't expect to find Rudra — dressed to perfection in a powder-blue suit — standing there, ready to propose. Complete with siblings, a surprise lunch with their parents, and a quiet garden setting, the moment was intimate, emotional, and just the right amount of cinematic.

If you think "airport" and "wedding" don't go together, think again. The Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott turned out to be an unexpectedly chic and ultra-convenient location for this grand celebration. With spacious ballrooms, stellar service, and a staff that made every guest feel like a VIP traveler (minus the turbulence), this venue went above and beyond to bring Nikita & Rudra's vision to life—bonus points for being an excellent choice for out-of-town guests flying in with baraat-ready energy.

Here's the secret to a stress-free wedding: Aria Events. This planning powerhouse understood the assignment — and then some. From the first call to the final sendoff, they helped Nikita & Rudra bring their vision to life with grace, detail, and a touch of sparkle. Their planning turned dreams into timelines, Pinterest boards into reality, and "Should we...?" into "We DID!". Nikita's bridal mehndi was a masterpiece thanks to Henna by Sushma. Every curve and paisley pattern told a story — one of love, tradition, and generations of artistry. As guests admired the intricate designs, the mehndi ceremony evolved into an event all its own, filled with laughter, music, and deep family roots.

Nirali Decor turned Newark into a floral fantasy. Whether it was the floral mandap bursting with white blooms or the sleek and romantic reception stage, every setting was picture-perfect. Think: soft petals, graceful drapery, candlelight ambiance, and just enough sparkle to make the chandeliers jealous. From the first call to the final sendoff, they helped Nikita and Rudra bring their vision to life with grace, detail, and a touch of sparkle. Their planning turned dreams into timelines, Pinterest boards into reality, and "Should we...?" into "We DID!"

With Regal Palette Studio behind the lens and Odyssey Films capturing every swoon-worthy second, this wedding was preserved like a cinematic love letter. From the teary-eyed first look to the choreographed chaos of the dance floor, these artists didn't just document the wedding — they told a story. A visually stunning, heart-melting, scroll-stopping story.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
We've actually known each other since middle school! We shared the same last name, so we always ended up sitting next to each other in classes. Our friendship grew naturally over the years, and although he always had a little crush on me back then, nothing ever came of it. Fast forward to college—we both ended up in Philadelphia, attending different schools (Temple University for me and University of the Sciences  for him). We’d occasionally run into each other with different friend groups, but it wasn’t until New Year’s Eve of 2018 that he finally shot his shot. Without intentionally planning it, our first official date ended up being on Valentine’s Day...at Shake Shack. That's when I realized he was "the one"—everything felt easy, familiar, and meant to be. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
What I thought was just a sweet girls' day out turned into the biggest surprise of my life! My sister, cousin, and best friend had planned a lunch at Grounds for Sculpture, and my fiancé was hanging out with us that morning, getting ready for a “golf day” — totally normal for him, so I didn’t suspect a thing. After lunch, we wandered through the sculpture park, which felt pretty casual… until we somehow ended up near the parking lot. That’s when my sister suddenly insisted we had to see one last sculpture. As we made our way to the "spot," she gave me a little push forward — and there he was, standing in an artisanal light blue suit, smiling from ear to ear. I couldn’t help but smile just as big. He had planned everything so thoughtfully — a proposal with our siblings present, followed by a lunch with our parents. It was intimate, personal, and absolutely perfect — I couldn’t have dreamed up a more beautiful moment.

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.
We’re both pretty laid-back when it comes to decision-making, so going into wedding planning, we really only had a few “musts.” What mattered most to us was finding vendors who could genuinely understand us as a couple and could envision our ideas. Honestly, getting to know all the different vendors and making sure they were the right fit was the most time-consuming part—but once we locked in our team, everything flowed smoothly. From the venue to the outfits, hair & makeup, and decor—every detail came together in a way that felt so authentically us.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I never really envisioned myself in the traditional red Hindu bridal lehenga, but I always dreamed of being a bride. Pastels always felt more “me” — soft, elegant, and timeless. Believe it or not, the very first dress I tried on ended up being the one. I had that instant, butterflies-in-your-stomach feeling, and I just knew I didn’t need to try on anything else. It was everything I had imagined and more. Sometimes, the dress really does find you!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
There were so many little moments that made the journey special — my fiancé and I lived together before the wedding, so we’d often turn planning meetings into fun little date nights, which made the whole process feel exciting instead of stressful. But the moment that replays in my mind the most is when I walked down the aisle. As part of the ceremony, his sister pulled down the antarpat (the cloth held between us), and for the first time that day, we saw each other as wife and husband. The butterflies, the emotion, the way we both couldn’t stop smiling — it was pure bliss.

A love story years in the making, wrapped in elegance and unforgettable wedding magic.

Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott, Aria Events, Henna by Sushma and Nirali Decor are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Moon Palace The Grand in Cancun, Niyati and Rachit's wedding was nothing short of a fairytale brought to life. They complemented the evening, offering a stunning setting and indulgent culinary delights that had guests whispering about coming back just for the experience. This Indian wedding wasn't just an event—it was an experience filled with love, color, and a touch of tropical elegance. Here's a glimpse into their unforgettable celebration that left everyone in awe.

From the vibrant Mehndi celebration to the ethereal beachside ceremony, every moment of Niyati & Rachit's wedding was a masterclass in blending tradition with destination magic. The stunning floral installations by Evoke (Palace Resorts) and Grupo Gama transformed the venues into dreamlike settings. At the same time, Styling Trio ensured the bride radiated elegance with their impeccable hair and makeup artistry. But the couple's electrifying first dance at the reception, with sparklers lighting up the night, truly stole the show—a moment etched in the hearts of all attendees.

No grand celebration happens without a dream team, and Niyati & Rachit's was exceptional. Dream Shaadi's expert planning and design ensured every detail was executed flawlessly, leaving the couple and their guests free to revel in the joy of the moment. Special recognition goes to Indian Destination Wedding, whose travel concierge services made the logistics seamless for everyone attending from afar. Their dedication to creating a hassle-free experience allowed family and friends to focus on the festivities rather than the flights.

Let's not forget the visual storytellers who captured every magical moment—Saptapadi Weddings. Their expertise in photography and cinematography preserved every glance, smile, and tear, ensuring these memories will be cherished for generations to come. Loto Mehndi's intricate designs adorned Niyati's hands, telling the story of love in a way only henna can. The Mehndi event was lively, bursting with laughter, music, and pops of vibrant color.

Here's to a lifetime of love, laughter, and spontaneous dance-offs under the stars!

Indian Destination Wedding and Saptapadi Weddings are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Once upon a time, in the heart of the grand Lucien's Manor, a magical wedding unfolded that would forever be etched in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to witness it. This was no ordinary celebration; it was the day Kruti & Priyank vowed to embark on their forever journey, wrapped in love and laughter, under the watchful eye of the vibrant Gujarati traditions.

As the sun rose, the venue buzzed with anticipation. The bride, Kruti, adorned in a breathtaking ensemble from the looms of traditional artisans, was a vision in red. Her attire was intricately embroidered, sparkling with gems that caught the morning light—a true masterpiece crafted for a queen. Priyank, her gallant groom, complemented her perfectly in a splendid sherwani, detailed with gold threads that spoke of royal tales from the East.

The ceremony was nothing short of spectacular, with the grand entrance of Kruti—a moment frozen in time. The air was thick with excitement as she walked through a corridor of applause, led by her jubilant bridesmaids in a harmonious floral dance. Mandap Milap outdid themselves with a floral and decor spectacle that transformed the venue into a celestial garden. Curated Events ensured every detail was impeccable, creating an elegant and electrifying ambiance. Amidst this setting, Chowpatty Foods served a feast fit for the gods, with flavors that danced on the tongue and left guests craving more.

As day turned to dusk, M4U Events took the stage, and oh, did they bring the house down! Their beats were the pulse of the night, guiding every step, twirl, and leap on the dance floor. Laughter roared louder than the music, and spirits soared higher than the soaring notes as Priyank swept Kruti off her feet, their first dance a ballet of grace and love.

Heral Beauty, the artisans behind the scenes, wove their magic through brushes and palettes, turning every face into a canvas of perfection. Kruti's radiant beauty was their pièce de résistance, a testament to their mastery in makeup and hair.

With their impeccable artistry and a keen eye for detail, Saroj Studios transformed the simple act of photography into a grand storytelling spectacle at Kruti & Priyank's wedding. Their cameras worked not merely as tools but as portals, capturing the essence of every fleeting glance, every shy smile, and every teardrop of joy, weaving them into the fabric of timeless memories. These photographers did more than document the day; they narrated a rich tapestry of emotions and events, capturing the untold stories of joy that bubbled beneath the surface, the silent whispers exchanged between the couple and their loved ones.

Thank you for joining us in an incredible love story; may their joy inspire your fairy-tale moments.

M4U Events and Saroj Studios are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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