When two hearts from different worlds unite in a grand, colorful spectacle, you know it will be a memorable wedding! Rona & Michael's Indian wedding in New Rochelle was a breathtaking blend of South Asian traditions and modern elegance, with each event radiating love, joy, and sparkle. Every detail, from the sacred Matricoor ceremony to a jaw-dropping reception, was a vision of perfection.
Let's wedding festivities began with a heartwarming Matricoor ceremony, a Guyanese-Hindu tradition that blessed the couple's journey. Dressed in a pristine white sari adorned with delicate floral jewelry, she gracefully embraced the sacred rituals. Rona's red bridal lehenga, bridal jewelry, and Michael's groom outfit were from Nazranna and Nazranna Jewels.
If Cinderella had a South Asian fairytale moment, it would look exactly like this. For the Sangeet, Rona turned heads in a mint green lehenga adorned with shimmering embroidery paired with exquisite jewelry from Tina's Inc. Michael complimented her effortlessly in an ivory and pastel green ensemble that coordinated, couple looks are always a win!
With the sounds of New York Alliance Tassa Group filling the air, Michael's baraat procession was the perfect balance of high energy and heartfelt excitement. Dressed in an ivory sherwani and a matching turban, he made a dashing groom. The Green Tree Country Club ceremony was a floral paradise, with cascading blooms and an ethereal mandap designed by Ruban Events that left everyone speechless. When it comes to florals and decor, they didn't just set the scene; they created a dreamscape. Picture a mandap in lush florals, intricate hanging lanterns, and golden hues that transported guests into a world of royal opulence.
The couple made their grand entrance, hand-in-hand, looking like royalty. But what stole the night? Their first dance! With DJ Rah Rahh curating the perfect beats, they twirled and swayed in a moment that felt like a scene from a Bollywood movie. Rona's golden retriever stole the show in a custom yellow outfit, proving that weddings are way better when pets are involved!
When the doors to The Venetian opened, guests walked into a scene straight out of a luxury wedding magazine. Thanks to Arcadia Floral Co, the ballroom was adorned with elegant centerpieces, soft candlelight, and an ambiance that screamed glamour. Rona's intricate henna, done by Henna by Aarti, was nothing short of artwork featuring delicate floral motifs and symbols of their love story. Bella Vita Weddings captured every candid moment, from the intimate hand-holding shots to the grand seaside bridal portraits. Every frame told a story, and every click preserved an emotion.
Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Background on us: Michael and I started dating around December 2018. Our first date was in the city, and we went to see the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. Our first picture together was in front of a Christmas Tree.
Fast forward three years later, we took a weeklong vacation in December 2021 to Europe. It was our first international trip together to the most romantic city in the world – Paris, France. On December 28, 2021, we planned to check out Palais Garnier, also known as Opera Garnier. It is probably the most famous opera in the world. This opera house is magnificent. In the Le Grand Foyer room, there was a beautifully decorated Christmas Tree that was the perfect backdrop for pictures. Of course, Michael and I took a few pictures in front of it. Michael suggested we take a few more, so I happily agreed. So, he flagged someone down to take our picture. As I was posing for the picture and waiting for him to stand next to me, I noticed that he was getting down on one knee. I was shocked, happy, nervous, excited…. I was feeling a lot of emotions at that moment. All I remember was giving him a kiss and saying Yes. It was the perfect proposal!! It was very fitting that he proposed to me in front of a Christmas tree.
How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
Growing up, I envisioned myself in a traditional red lengha. I did get a little sidetrack when I first started looking for my bridal outfit. At the time, pink bridal lenghas were in fashion. So, I was gravitating towards that for a bit but ultimately, I realized that it wasn’t me. I wanted to embody a traditional Indian Bride. And that will never go out of style. Wearing a traditional red outfit is what sets us apart from other cultures in the world.
What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
My guests were blown away by the ceremony ritual, the tight bond with my family, the vibrant colors, and the delicious food. Our guests were all different backgrounds and faiths. Looking out in the crowd seeing our guests adorn themselves in traditional Indian outfits filled my heart with love, gratitude and appreciation. I felt love and respect from the people in the room for my culture. Till this day, I have people reaching out to me saying it’s the best wedding they have ever experienced in their lives.
Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Michael and I are from different backgrounds and faiths. My parents are from Guyana, and I was raised Hindu. Michael’s background is English, Irish, and Italian, and he was raised Presbyterian. We had a traditional Hindu ceremony but not a Christian ceremony. Michael didn’t feel the need for one. He fully embraced the Hindu customs! That special moment for me was walking down the aisle towards the Mandap to Michael. I could see love in his eyes and felt the warmth from his smile as I was walking towards him. That moment will forever be embedded in my mind and heart.
Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Your wedding day is one of the most important moments in your life. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. There will be a lot of suggestions, opinions, and comments about what your wedding should look like. At the end of the day, the only thing that should matter is what you think, fee,l and want. You don’t want to look back with regrets. The memory of your wedding should bring a feeling of happiness, comfort, and love.
This wedding wasn't just a celebration; it was an experience—one filled with meaningful moments.
