Weddings are a time when dreams and reality intertwine, creating unforgettable moments for everyone involved. Juhi & Neel's wedding at the stunning Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach was the epitome of this magic. With a dreamy South Asian theme, meticulous attention to detail, and love that shone brighter than the California sun, their celebration had all the makings of a cinematic love story.
Juhi & Neel's love story could rival any Bollywood rom-com. It all started during their undergrad years at UCI when they participated in Indian clubs at their universities. What started as a friendship blossomed into something more profound when Juhi began dental school at USC. After Neel's grand first date, Juhi knew this was her leading man. Juhi knew Neel was the one when she saw the lengths he would go to ensure her happiness.
When it came time for their big day, Juhi & Neel pulled out all the stops. With Elegant Events behind the planning and design, the couple's vision was brought to life most spectacularly. Juhi looked breathtaking in a pastel pink Manish Malhotra bridal lengha, styled perfectly by Dolled Up by Lulu. She paired it with bold, contrasting light green jewelry that made her glow like the show's star. Neel matched her elegance in a regal Manish Malhotra sherwani, making them the ultimate fashion-forward duo.
Eucharis Studio set the stage with florals that turned the venue into a garden of love. But it wasn't just the florals that had everyone swooning—Duke Images captured the entire event in pure artistry. Every smile, tear, and joyful dance move was immortalized, but if you think the photos were magical, you must watch the video! White Rose Production went above and beyond, transforming Juhi & Neel's wedding into a cinematic masterpiece. Their wedding film is an emotional journey that brings the entire celebration to life. From the quiet moments of Juhi getting ready with her bridal party to the heart-stopping first look between her and Neel, they captured every meaningful glance, laugh, and even those fun, unexpected moments that made the day unique.
How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
I met my husband, Neel, during my undergrad years at UCI. We both were a part of the Indian clubs at our schools, UCI and USC. We became friends and remained friends over the next 4 years. When I started dental school at USC, Neel asked me on a date. We immediately hit it off and began a serious relationship shortly after. I knew Neel was the one because he would literally move mountains to make sure I was happy. He cared so much for my family and friends and made a huge effort with anyone I said was special. He can not only handle me at my best but also at my worst. Neel makes me a better person overall.
Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
My proposal day was November 14th, 2020, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Neel surprised me and made a beachside proposal with all our family and closest friends. He arranged for me to have my hair and makeup done and brought me to Newport Beach. I walked up to a flower arrangement and the words "marry me". Along the way, members of our family and friends held up Neel and I's favorite pictures of ourselves through our 5-year journey. After I told Neel "yes," we went to our villa in the beautiful resort Pelican Hill and partied the night away. We had food, drinks, and lots of dancing. It was definitely a day I will never forget. I can truly say it felt like a fairytale proposal.
How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I always knew I wanted something different and softer than the traditional red color lengha. I always had my eyes set on a light pink pastel color, and I wanted to compliment my dress with bold jewelry. In early 2021, I went to Mumbai to go shopping for a wedding. I have loved Sabyasachi for years and have always imagined wearing his lengha for my wedding. When I got to the store, I immediately saw the outfit and knew it was the one. The gold beading against the pastel pink silk material was delicate and not too bold. The lengha was heading, but I was wearing the lengha; it wasn't wearing me. The color of the lengha made my skin tone stand out but didn't make it look too dark. The two contrasting dupattas were perfect - one for my shoulder and one to wear over my head. I automatically knew I wanted to contrast the outfit with light green jewelry. Overall, I loved the whole look and am so happy I went with the Sabyasachi pastel pink lengha.
What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part of the planning process was bringing to life my vision of each events. I love fashion and decor and having multiple events allowed me to explore multiple different themes and clothing styles. I loved planning each events outfits to compliment the decor. I also loved adding little personal touches to each event such as custom drinks, a photo wall, and a champagne tower pour.
What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
I believe the guests loved how much my husband and I truly tried to make each event unique and a good representation of us. We definitely did all the cultural and religious events, but we included a portion where our guests could enjoy the events. Our events were spread out, and we chose to have only one event each day, with our wedding week lasting a full week. Our reception was the most elaborate, with a violinist playing classic Indian songs and a saxophone player doing the same. This really brought the dancing and cocktail hour to the next level.
Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
My husband and I repeated our vows on the mandap for everyone to hear. Although these were intimate vows, it's felt that much more special for us both to announce our hopes and love for each other in front of our closest family and friends.
Another special moment was during my pithi event. After the pithi portion was completed, my cousins decided to throw me into the pool. Not only was I thrown in, but slowly, everyone started getting thrown in. Eventually, most of the guests were also in the pool, and it became a pool party. These guests included aunties in their sarees and uncles jumping in the pool, spraying champagne. Although we all got a little more than that day, it was one of the best memories of our wedding week.
Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
My words of wisdom for future brides are to truly enjoy all your wedding events. It was my biggest priority for my husband and me to enjoy all the wedding events after spending almost 2 years planning it. The energy the bride and groom have radiates. If both the bride and groom are enjoying the guests will not only see it but match this energy. There are always things that go wrong but the wedding week is once in a lifetime, and everyone should enjoy this milestone in life to the fullest.
This celebration was a perfect blend of tradition, elegance, and heartfelt moments.
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