Good morning, Maharanis! Get ready to enjoy Melanie & Manish's wedding in today's Platinum Guide Blog.
How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
I met Manish in the clinic where we had both started our first jobs. Our first conversation was about our favorite bagel place in NYC and his personality was just infectious. He is the kind of person that is positive and excited about everything, even something as simple as a bagel. After I finished speaking to him, I went around the corner and joked to a friend, "Manish is amazing, I think I might have to marry him!" Later on, I knew he was the one when I backed into his car and his first question was, "are you ok?" He puts me first time and time again and makes it clear that no matter how crazy life gets, I am his priority and he is mine.
Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
He proposed at the Top of the Rock in NYC and hired a photographer to capture it all. I had no idea it was going to happen and was absolutely shocked. It was such a romantic and breathtaking spot for a proposal.
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.
The most important person in our planning process was Manish's mom. As an American bride with not much familiarity with Indian weddings or traditions, I relied on her heavily to help me learn about how things would come together. She is the most organized, detail-oriented person I have ever known and I cannot imagine how things could have worked without her. I also have to give a big shout-out to House of Talent. They got to know us during the planning process so we felt comfortable with them on our big day, and the photos they put together totally capture the mood of the day. Every time we look though the photos I am instantly transported back to those moments. They are true experts and professionals.
How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
Manish's mom found it in India for me, along with my entire wedding wardrobe for that weekend. I knew I wanted red, and I left the rest up to her. I'm grateful for her excellent taste-- it turned out absolutely gorgeous!
What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The best part of our planning process was when we entered the final few days and Chetali with Wedding Excellence NYC came on board. WOW, we cannot say enough about Chetali's incredible work on our event. She was patient but firm, detailed but easy-going, and has a knack for helping us smooth out and move through any bumps in the road that came about. She took all my pre-wedding jitters away and was an absolute joy to have around in the days leading up to our wedding, and on our special day.
What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Honestly, I think the venue was the most spectacular part of our day. There is nothing like a New York City wedding, and hosting it at Cipriani's just put it over the top. I know that when I walked in that morning, it took my breath away and really set the tone for an elegant, royal event. We also had many guests that were from my side and not familiar with Indian weddings, which made things feel extra special and spectacular. I know that my family will be talking about this event for years to come.
Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
I will never forget the moment where Manish and I were on the dance floor in our evening wear, dancing and having photos taken with just the two of us while everyone mingled outside. It felt like such a precious moment between the two of us amidst a whirlwind of a day. That, and when we went to Grand Central to take some photographs with the House of Talent guys. In that lengha, I felt like the queen of New York.
Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
The bride, more than anyone, sets the tone for the wedding. All eyes are on you and people will be watching you for cues on how you are feeling, which will therefore dictate how the events will go. So if you are enthusiastic, easy-going, and enjoying yourself, your family and guests will too. Some of your best memories will be the ridiculous things that go wrong. Keep smiling, no matter what!
That is a wrap, beautiful Maharanis. I will see you soon for more love stories and inspiring ideas!
