Welcome to Maharani Weddings

That's right! When you know, you know, and sometimes that means your future husband is thinking about long-term investments before you're even officially dating. This couple's journey from a chance meeting in Los Angeles to their breathtaking wedding in Michigan is nothing short of magical, with surprises, stunning decor, and dance performances that could rival Bollywood's best.

From the moment guests stepped into Nirali & Varun's wedding weekend, it was clear this was no ordinary celebration. Marigold Wedding Planners transformed each venue into a dreamscape, blending elegance with personal touches that made the weekend unforgettable. Whether it was the ethereal forest decor theme or the seamless execution of events, every detail reflected the couple's love story and vision.

The wedding ceremony occurred at St. John's Resort, with the Garden Pavilion offering a 360-degree view of Michigan's crisp autumn beauty. The sunlight streaming through the glass walls illuminated Nirali's custom Frontier Raas bridal lengha—a breathtaking ivory-white ensemble with rose gold accents that shimmered with every step she took.

Their sangeet & reception at Suburban Showplace set the tone for the festivities, with vibrant decor and performances from friends who had once been part of college dance teams. (Think: a full-fledged Bollywood showdown meets Punjabi and Gujarati fusion—because why settle for one when you can have both?) The reception brought the festivities to a grand finale, featuring an electrifying set from DJ Rohit Goswamy that kept the dance floor packed all night. And because no epic wedding weekend is complete without delicious food, Punjab Indian Cuisine and Krishna Catering delivered a feast with guests raving long after the plates were cleared.

The artistry didn't stop at decor—Amanie Mokdad and Simona Vigh worked their magic, ensuring Nirali looked flawless through every event. From soft glam to bold bridal, her hair and makeup were always on point. And let's not forget Urban Phulkari, the genius behind cinematography and photography, who captured every laugh, tear, and twirl in breathtaking detail. Their cinematography wasn't just about recording moments—it was about storytelling. Every frame was meticulously crafted to reflect the couple's emotions, from the nervous excitement before the first look to the joyous energy on the dance floor.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
We met at a party when I was visiting Los Angeles. He somehow knew my older brother and sister-in-law from across the country, but we had never met. We went on three dates within 5 days of meeting, and when I went back to the other side of the country, we kept talking and meeting every month for 5 months. I knew he was the one when he attended my graduate school graduation via Zoom, and he gifted me money to open a Roth IRA before we even officially dating. We started dating a few weeks later, and in less than 2 years, we were engaged.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
We were supposed to meet our friends for a double date at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, where we had our second date. I was actually asking him when he was going to propose 15 minutes before he actually got down on one knee. I genuinely had no idea! The surprises continued all night as our friends and family joined us in celebrating at the same club we first met at in Los Angeles.

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 our wedding was a full combined family effort as we were planning a wedding in my home state of Michigan while living in California. I have to give my husband a shout-out because the whole process would’ve been much more difficult without his negotiating and planning skills.

I dreamt of a unique wedding venue that was different than all the ones I have typically seen in metro Detroit. Tina from Marigold Planners heard our families' wishes and helped us find the perfect wedding venue at Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth, MI, about an hour away from where I grew up. The Garden Pavilion, in my opinion, was perfect for someone seeking a simple but elegant canvas for a wedding. The 360 glass walls of the pavilion allowed guests to enjoy the beautiful fall morning in Michigan.

For my wedding shopping, I didn’t have the time to go to India myself for shopping so I did all my shopping from online or through the help of family in India.

My hair and make up were on point the whole weekend, thanks to Simona Vigh (hair) and Amanie Mokdad (make up). I wanted something different for each look and trusted the artists to do their job and they did a phenomenal job.

For our wedding decor theme, we chose an ethereal forest theme.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I had always wanted an off-white wedding dress. I had seen a dress at Frontier raas in different materials and colors and got a custom dress made from them in an ivory-white color. When I saw the dress for the first time, I was in awe of the stunning, intricate designs and handwork and unique rose gold color accents. I couldn’t hide the details of my outfits from my fiancé, so I wanted to surprise him with at least one element of my outfit: my veil. The veil came together last minute, within 2-3 weeks before the wedding!

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Being able to plan easily with our parents and fiancé.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
The food and music, as well as the coordination for the weekend. Sangeet and Reception food is prepared by Punjab Cuisine, and the wedding food is prepared by Krishna Catering and Restaurant. Music by DJ Rohit Goswamy and Planning + Coordination by Marigold Wedding Planners

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
The whole weekend lol

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.
Many of our friends and family were on college dance teams, so our sangeet was very exciting. The l dances showcased both of our unique cultures (Punjabi and Gujurati) as well as our talented friends who helped choreograph and dance the different routines.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Wedding planning can be very overwhelming and stressful, make sure you take time to enjoy the process. Try not save any big planning details until the end—3-4 weeks before the wedding is when you should start enjoying all the Pre-wedding excitement.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
I am still in love with my wedding set from paisley pop. I stacked two necklaces for a fuller look, and I’m happy I chose pieces I can re-wear in the future in different ways. It was also very special for me to be able to incorporate family heirlooms into the accessories I wore.

We opted not to have wedding cake, but a dessert table spread instead for more variety. We Ended up still cutting a cake, however, as it was my husband birthday!

Sweethearts, the weekend was filled with joyful memories, beautiful traditions, and much dancing..

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Next in our Best of 2024 Weddings series is a beautiful celebration from New Jersey! Archana and Neil’s journey to forever began in the digital age, where a dating app introduced them, but a glitch pushed their conversation to Instagram. A long-distance trip to India early in their relationship revealed how much they meant to each other, solidifying their love. Shortly after, they became inseparable, leading to their legal marriage just six months into their relationship.

Neil’s proposal, set at the Morris Arboretum where they had their first date, was deeply personal. Surrounded by family members who had traveled from across the country, it was a heartfelt moment followed by an intimate celebration at their home.

Planning their wedding was a family affair, with immense support from loved ones and guidance from their Event Designer, Jyoti Soni Events. The grandeur of The Legacy Castle provided the perfect backdrop, blending elegance and charm, while Abhishek Decorators transformed their ideas into breathtaking décor.

Archana’s bridal journey started with a trip to India, where she discovered her dream pink lengha at Sequinze and paired it with a custom reception outfit from Purva Couture. Her bridal look was perfected by Cinderella Bridez, whose artistry made her feel radiant on her big day. Neil looked dashing in a tailored tuxedo from Suit Supply, complementing Archana beautifully.

The couple ensured every detail of their celebration was unforgettable. Guests were treated to an unforgettable experience, starting with an elaborate menu crafted by Moghul Caterers, whose dishes left a lasting impression. DJ JimmyP and MC DJ Intense ensured the dance floor stayed packed, while Tati Cher’s entertainment during the cocktail hour added a touch of magic. Pre-wedding events featured creative themes, from a Moroccan-inspired mehndi night to an ocean-themed sangeet, with stunning details brought to life by Visual Comet’s lighting design.

Among the couple’s cherished memories were their first look, filled with raw emotion, and the intimate moments spent with their families before the ceremony. Capturing these moments were the talented team from House of Talent Studio, whose photography and videography immortalized every detail.

Archana and Neil’s wedding was a celebration of love, family, and tradition, made even more magical by the dedication of their vendors and the warmth of their loved ones.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I left America to go shopping for my lengha in India with a vision of wearing light pink on my wedding day and pairing it with a long veil. After exploring countless shops in various cities, I came across the outfit that captured my heart. The designers even agreed to create a veil that matched my vision. It felt surreal to find my dream dress in the exact color I had imagined, complete with a stunning 12-foot veil.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part for me was bonding with my family and Neil’s family. Since we got legally married within six months of dating, we didn’t have much time to get to know each other's families initially. However, planning a wedding over the course of a year gave me the chance to spend quality time with my in-laws and grow closer to them. Watching our families come together and bond throughout the process was incredibly fulfilling. Of course, picking out gorgeous clothes and accessories was fun, but those moments with family are what I’ll treasure the most.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
I have two moments that hold a special place in my heart. The first was in the morning while I was getting ready. Being surrounded by my parents, siblings, cousins, and sister-in-law created such a warm and intimate vibe before the ceremony. Neil shared a similar experience, spending time with his family and even his dog, which meant so much to him. The second moment was our first look. It was everything I had ever imagined—seeing Neil’s reaction when he saw me for the first time is a memory I’ll cherish forever.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Stay calm and focus on what truly matters. Wedding planning can be overwhelming, but remember that your guests won’t know if something isn’t perfect—they’re there to celebrate your love. Prioritize your well-being, enjoy the process, and don’t sweat the small stuff because you’ll miss the planning once it’s over!

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Shayoni and Bhargav’s love story began in Philadelphia, PA, where they met just as Shayoni was preparing to begin medical school. Their connection was instant, solidified by an unforgettable first date at Harp and Crown. After hours of conversation and sharing the tasting menu, they both knew something special had begun. Five years later, Bhargav returned to where it all started, proposing at a park overlooking the Philadelphia skyline. The moment was both sentimental and magical, culminating in a surprise celebration at the speakeasy of Harp and Crown with their loved ones.

When planning their dream wedding, Shayoni and Bhargav chose the breathtaking Villa Erba on Lake Como. With planning and design led by Distinctive Italy Weddings, the couple transformed their vision into an elegant and intimate celebration. The venue's timeless charm, coupled with stunning floral arrangements by Figli dei Fiori, created an ethereal ambiance. Shayoni, inspired by Bengali traditions and her love for the movie Devdas, opted for a classic red Banarasi silk sari sourced from a boutique in Calcutta. Her intricate bridal styling was completed by Beauty by Anuja, who also ensured flawless hair and makeup for all the events.

The couple's wedding celebrations featured a blend of cultures and personal touches. The mehndi, designed by Apsaras Events Italy, set the tone for a vibrant and joyous start to the festivities. DJ Raj K kept the guests dancing through the night, while catering by Class Eventi offered an exquisite fusion of Italian and Indian cuisines. The wedding's luxurious decor and lighting by BluNotte Events added a magical glow to the evenings, perfectly complementing the picturesque setting of Lake Como.

One of the most cherished moments from their wedding was a quiet pause Shayoni and Bhargav took after their ceremony. Sitting together on the rooftop deck of Villa Erba, they overlooked the serene lake, reciting their private vows amidst the beauty of nature.

Their special day was immortalized by Gianni Di Natale, whose photography and cinematography captured every heartfelt moment. Shayoni and Bhargav’s wedding was not just a union of two people but a celebration of love, tradition, and the people who made their journey so meaningful.

How did you meet your groom, and when did you know he was "the one"?
Bhargav and I met in Philadelphia, PA, when I was preparing to start medical school and he was already working in the city. For our first date, he planned a dinner at Harp and Crown in Center City Philadelphia. As soon as we sat down, he confidently suggested ordering the tasting menu. As a passionate foodie, I was immediately impressed. That evening, we shared three hours of wonderful conversation, incredible food, and unforgettable moments. It was clear from the start that this was something special.

Share the scoop on your proposal story!
Bhargav proposed five years after we first met, in the same city where we fell in love. Early in our relationship, we had a memorable date at a park overlooking the Philadelphia skyline—a place where we had a deep and meaningful conversation. He brought me back to that very spot, got down on one knee, and asked me to marry him. To make the moment even more magical, he had arranged a surprise celebration with our closest family and friends at the speakeasy of Harp and Crown, the restaurant where we had our first date. It was the perfect way to begin our next chapter.

What advice would you give to couples planning a destination wedding?
Amid all the excitement, having a private moment to reflect and soak in the day can be incredibly meaningful. It helps you stay present and truly savor your celebration.

What did your guests particularly love about your wedding?
Our guests loved the intimate atmosphere of our wedding. The breathtaking beauty of Lake Como provided a stunning backdrop, and the smaller size of the celebration allowed everyone to connect, enjoy the surroundings, and truly celebrate with one another.

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Next in our Best of 2024 Weddings series is a beautiful multicultural celebration in Mayakoba. Winnie and Andres' love story began with a chance meeting at a capsule hostel in Tokyo, Japan, which quickly blossomed into a deep connection. After years apart during college, they reconnected, and their love grew stronger. In July 2022, Andres proposed during a romantic dinner at Tulum's Azulik restaurant, surprising Winnie with a family heirloom ring hidden in her dessert.

Winnie envisioned a wedding that honored her Ugandan and Punjabi roots while embracing Andres' Mexican heritage. The celebration spanned several days at two stunning Mayakoba venues: Banyan Tree Mayakoba and Andaz Mayakoba Riviera Maya, with expert planning by Eunice Bravo Weddings and Cristina Ogando Weddings. Winnie’s mother, who passed away in 2023, played a pivotal role in the planning. Winnie paid tribute to her mother’s legacy by incorporating her favorite flower, tulips, throughout the wedding, beautifully executed by her floral and decor vendor, Pri Ola.

The wedding beautifully blended cultures, with each event reflecting their unique heritage. The "First Class Flight Around the World" dinner at Banyan Tree took guests on a culinary journey through India, Japan, Mexico, Uganda, and the USA, with Winnie’s African-inspired outfit setting a vibrant tone. At her father’s villa, the Mehndi ceremony featured tabla music, Punjabi folk songs, and a tribute to her late mother, with her name and tulips etched into Winnie’s henna, beautifully done by Loto Mehndi. Meanwhile, makeup artist Alex Corbanezi ensured Winnie looked stunning at every moment throughout the events.

The Mexican Welcome Party at Andaz Mayakoba was a lively celebration with tequila bars, Mayan fire dancers, and a mariachi band, while the Haldi ceremony, set against turquoise waters, featured yellow origami cranes honoring Winnie’s mother, followed by an Asian-inspired feast and a joyful ocean plunge. 

Winnie made a grand entrance at the Sikh wedding ceremony, arriving by boat with her brother before exchanging vows in a spiritual setting. Her maroon lehenga featured Andres' name in Punjabi. The day culminated in a Mexican wedding ceremony with a mariachi band and live painter, Juliana Casali, followed by an African jungle-themed reception, complete with a tribute to Winnie’s mother.

DJ Sunny P and Beats by Jay elevated the entire celebration with their exceptional performance, adding an extra layer of energy and excitement to the event

The wedding, captured by Pixan Photography and Ismael Gonzalez Filmmaker, was a beautiful blend of cultures and love. From Tokyo to Tulum, their journey is proof that the best stories are woven with intention, love, and a touch of fate.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
We met in 2016 at a capsule hostel in Tokyo, Japan. After traveling together for a few days, we realized we were sleeping in pods right next to each other without even knowing it! I knew he was "the one" when I didn’t want to lose the connection we had.

How did you go about planning your wedding?
After considering multiple locations, we chose Mexico, where most of Andres' family could attend. I wanted a private, luxury venue with attention to detail, so I chose Mayakoba’s Banyan Tree and Andaz resorts. Although I had a wedding planner, I took charge of every detail, creating a cultural, immersive experience for our 150 guests from around the world. Tragically, my mother passed away in 2023, and I had to finish planning the wedding alone, but I honored her at every event.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress?
I chose a maroon lengha with a traditional feel, but in a shade that suited my skin tone better than red. The best part? It was the first lengha I tried on, and it felt like it was meant to be. I also had Andres’ name embroidered in Punjabi.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process?
Visiting Mayakoba with my mom and dad was incredibly special. Even though I planned the wedding without my mom, she was with me in spirit, and her support made the entire experience feel blessed.

What did your guests love most about your wedding?
The cultural immersion, the spiritual elements throughout the wedding, the storytelling in every event, and the attention to detail were all highlights for our guests. They also appreciated how well-organized everything was.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
If something is on your heart, don’t hesitate—grab the mic and say it. These moments are yours to cherish.

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Next in our Best of 2024 Weddings series is a stunning celebration from Spain! Revathi and Shlok’s journey began as high school sweethearts, sharing shy smiles, laughter, and a bond strengthened by basketball games and endless time together. Though life took them in different directions for a while, fate—and a little help from mutual friends—brought them back together, rekindling their love with even greater passion and devotion.

In April 2023, with the NYC skyline as their backdrop, Shlok proposed, marking the next chapter of their love story with a promise of forever. They envisioned a wedding that would match the depth of their journey, choosing the breathtaking Tenerife, Spain, as the ideal setting.

Their wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, Abama, overlooked the serene ocean, creating an idyllic backdrop for each event, from a lively Sangeet to a traditional Indian wedding and glamorous reception. The ballroom decor, beautifully brought to life by our Platinum Guide member Aria Events and Smazing Events brought their dream celebration to life.

La Casa de las Flores beautifully transformed each event space with stunning floral arrangements and traditional Indian decor. From the hanging mirrors and crystals adorning the dance floor at the sangeet, to the vibrant table setup at the haldi with clear jars filled with colorful flowers, and an elegant mandap draped in lush blooms – every detail was a work of art.

The celebration continued with captivating entertainment from Groovy Dhol Revolution and violinist Ana Obando. DJ Raj Minocha and Platinum Road Show kept guests on their feet, ensuring a night filled with joyful memories.

Their reception, inspired by the Great Gatsby, was a glamorous finale with flowing champagne, flapper dancers, and endless celebrations. With travel managed seamlessly by Luxx Escapes, guests could immerse themselves fully in the wedding festivities.

It was truly a magical wedding, destined to inspire memories for a lifetime. From heartfelt moments to dazzling celebrations, Pervez Taufiq Photography captured every detail with breathtaking artistry, ensuring Revathi and Shlok will treasure these memories forever.

How did you meet your groom, and when did you know he was "the one"?
We met as high school sweethearts in Edison, New Jersey. Although we faced challenges and spent time apart during college, our bond only grew stronger when we reconnected. Our journey together included supporting each other through tough times, like family losses and career struggles. Over the years, our relationship blossomed, and in April 2023, Shlok proposed in New York City. That moment marked the beginning of our forever. Our wedding in Tenerife in 2024 was the perfect culmination of our love story.

How did you go about planning your wedding and choosing your vendors?

Planning our wedding was a labor of love. My mother-in-law and I worked tirelessly on everything from the venue to the decor, making multiple trips to India for outfit selections. We were meticulous with every detail to ensure everything was perfect, which brought us closer together. The whole process was time-consuming, but the effort paid off, and it created lasting memories.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process?
The most enjoyable part was picking my outfits. My mother-in-law and I bonded over late-night calls, coordinating every detail. It was a stressful but rewarding experience, and we still reminisce about it. It brought us closer than ever.

What did your guests particularly love about your wedding?

We focused on creating an unforgettable experience for our guests—curating unique menus for each event, arranging smooth transportation, and bringing in entertainment. Our goal was to ensure they felt appreciated for traveling to Tenerife, and their enjoyment was our priority.

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