Welcome to Maharani Weddings

If fairytales had a South Asian edition, Komal & Dipen’s wedding would be the front-cover feature! Set against the scenic charm of Gaithersburg, MD, their celebration was an enchanting blend of tradition, elegance, and the kind of love story that makes you believe in happily ever after.

Komal turned heads in an emerald green lehenga adorned with intricate silver embellishments, a regal and refreshingly unique choice. She paired her look with dazzling jewelry, a stunning maang tikka, and an aura of pure grace. Dipen, on the other hand, embodied the essence of a Maharaja in an ivory sherwani with delicate embroidery, exuding timeless charm. Together, they looked like they had stepped out of a classic Bollywood romance.

When it comes to wedding décor that leaves guests speechless, Lucky Events LLC truly outdid itself. They created a luxurious and intimate ambiance by transforming the Marriott Washingtonian Center into a dreamy oasis of soft florals, golden accents, and candlelit elegance. From the mandap, which looked like it belonged in a royal palace, to the perfectly curated seating arrangements, every detail was meticulously planned to perfection. Their rentals and event design expertise turned Komal & Dipen’s vision into a breathtaking reality.

A wedding of this grandeur required a meticulous touch, and Xquisit Events LLC delivered flawlessly. From coordinating intricate schedules to ensuring every detail was in place, their expertise was evident in the effortless flow of events. With their careful planning, the day unfolded like a beautifully choreographed dance—smooth, elegant, and unforgettable. Their dedication allowed the couple and their families to fully immerse themselves in the moment's joy, making this wedding a true dream.

When Komal glided into view for their first look, Dipen’s jaw practically hit the floor. And can we blame him? Komal’s breathtaking emerald-green lehenga shimmered with intricate embroidery, complementing her stunning mehndi that told its love story. Not to be outdone, Dipen arrived in a crisp white sherwani paired with a coordinating turban, looking every bit the regal prince to his modern-day princess. The two locked eyes and time momentarily stood still, except for that one relative snapping pictures from behind the bushes.

The incredibly talented team at Oak & Gold Studios captured every emotion, sparkle, and dance move. Their keen eye for detail and storytelling ensured Komal & Dipen’s big day would live on forever through breathtaking photographs and cinematic footage. From the stolen glances during the ceremony to the electric energy of the dance floor, their ability to encapsulate raw emotion was unparalleled. 

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
Dipen and I met on a dating app, Dil Mil. Our first-day date was at the nice rooftop bar in D.C., where I got all nicely dressed up, and he showed up in jeans, hoodies, sneakers, and a baseball cap! Didn’t think our first date would last five hours at the rooftop just talking away! I started realizing Dipen was the one not in a single moment, but when I saw how he was with my family and his family and friends and how they were so compatible. All the traits I wanted in someone he had!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
The day of our proposal, Dipen came to my apartment as I was getting ready for the “holiday work party” that he said we were attending. The whole time, he was pacing around and looking nervous, so I started getting doubts. However, I was assured by my sister that she was away for the weekend, so Dipen couldn’t possibly be planning anything without her! He mentioned we had to stop by one memorial in DC to meet up with a coworker. I was getting skeptical again but went along with it. We arrived at the Japanese lantern area near the MLK Memorial in DC, and of course, there was no coworker waiting for us. Dipen gets down on one knee, and instead of getting excited and emotional, I start yelling at him to stop joking around and get up! (He’s gotten down on one knee before as a joke) I slowly start to realize that he isn’t joking and this is really happening. My emotions turn from anger to happiness and emotional so quickly! Afterward, he still mentioned that we had to attend the “holiday party,” which I believed. We get to the hotel rooftop, where we’re supposedly pregaming with some of these coworkers, just to find all of our close family and friends jump out and surprise me! It was truly the perfect day, and Dipen did such an amazing job planning everything for the tee!

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.
My wedding happened a year after my sister’s wedding, so it was a little easier for me to find vendors since I took half of hers! Usually, you hear of brides doing all the wedding planning, but here, Dipen and I contributed equally using our strengths. I focused more on the little details and decor while he focused on the finances and logistics. It did get stressful at times, for sure, but Dipen and I made sure to work together and not let things get to us.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I never wanted to wear the traditional red color for my wedding outfit. A lot of the colors I chose for each of my events were all the non traditional route. I chose green for my wedding lehenga since it’s my favorite color and is what I have always wanted to wear for my wedding!

This wedding was a beautiful celebration filled with love, joy, and unforgettable moments.

Dhruvi and Vybav’s love story began with a modern twist—by swiping right on Tinder! Little did they know, their paths had crossed years earlier at the University of Delaware, where they unknowingly lived just a floor apart. Their connection blossomed quickly, with Dhruvi realizing he was “the one” through countless meaningful moments and shared dreams.

In August 2022, Vybav proposed at Race Street Pier in Philadelphia, a sentimental spot from their early days. Surrounded by hidden loved ones, he asked Dhruvi in Gujarati, “Tu mari sathe lagan karish?”—“Will you marry me?” This perfect proposal set the stage for their extraordinary wedding celebration.

Dhruvi and Vybav’s destination wedding at the El Dorado Royale Grand Ballroom was a breathtaking four-day celebration blending North and South Indian traditions. The festivities kicked off with a vibrant Welcome Fiesta, complete with a lively mariachi band and an energetic dance party, culminating in a dazzling sparkler send-off. The following days included a traditional South Indian Gowri Pooja performed by Dhruvi, a joyful Haldi ceremony, and a vibrant Holi celebration on the beach.

The Sangeet was a spectacular fusion of traditions, with dazzling performances and custom dandiya sticks that embraced Gujarati culture. Guests indulged in an array of cuisines, including Mexican, Indo-Chinese, Italian, as well as live churro and street food stations, which elevated the evening’s charm.

The wedding ceremonies honored both Gujarati and Kannada traditions. The Gujarati wedding began with a lively Baraat and included touching moments, such as Dhruvi’s grandmothers serving as flower ladies. Dhruvi stunned in a custom purple lehenga designed by Kalki Fashion, complete with a 10-foot embroidered veil featuring the couple’s names and wedding date. The Kannada wedding, held at sunset, showcased Dhruvi in a timeless outfit from The House of Angadi and Label Advaya, complemented by accessories that balanced tradition and modernity.

The celebrations came together flawlessly under the expert planning and design of Pyaar Planning. The enchanting forest-inspired reception décor, created by Lomas Hospitality and accented with florals by ASR Florals, featured rich emerald green, gold, and black hues. The Hora Loca brought unparalleled energy with rave sticks, water drums, performers on stilts, and a vibrant conga line. Guests savored a lavish dessert table, custom cocktails, and unforgettable moments.

Throughout the event, Shaadi Destinations ensured seamless travel coordination, while the magical memories were beautifully captured by DK Photofilms and BSalas Films.

Dhruvi and Vybav’s wedding was a masterclass in blending cultures, individuality, and joy, leaving every guest with cherished memories of love and celebration.

How did you meet your groom, and when did you know he was "the one"?
Vybav and I met through Tinder, but our story goes deeper. We both attended the University of Delaware from 2013–2016 and even lived in the same dorm a floor apart without ever meeting! The universe brought us together during my senior year through Tinder, and we've been inseparable since. Knowing he was “the one” came through countless moments, like how he effortlessly fit into my life and shared my dreams for the future. It became clear there was no future without him by my side.

Share the scoop on your proposal story!
In August 2022, Vybav proposed at Race Street Pier in Philadelphia, a place full of special memories from our time living nearby. After six months of secret planning, he created an intimate moment by proposing in my native Gujarati, saying “Tu mari sathe lagan karish?” (Will you marry me?). He even invited close family and friends to surprise me afterward, ensuring a perfect mix of romance and celebration!

What music was played during the Gujarati wedding ceremony?
The Gujarati ceremony featured Hindi songs, with a special emphasis on symbolism. Dhruvi's bridal entrance was to Mere Sonheya, while Peer Vi Tu accompanied the garland exchange, reflecting their deep love and peace. The sacred Mangal Pheras were performed to Mangadyu, a traditional staple.

What music was featured in the Kannada wedding ceremony?
For the Kannada wedding, live singing by the groom’s aunt and cousin during the Ganesh Pooja added a personal touch. Traditional tunes like Gajavadana highlighted key moments, and the garland exchange featured Mast Magan, a song reflecting their North-South love story, akin to the movie 2 States.

What was the music selection for the reception?
The first dance was a dynamic medley of Hindi and English songs, starting with the romantic Duniya. It transitioned into upbeat tracks like Lover by Diljit Dosanjh, Illegal Weapon 2.0, and Chaiya Chaiya to energize the crowd, concluding with Everything I Do by Bryan Adams.

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In the heart of Dearborn, Michigan, Megan & Raj's wedding was nothing short of a vibrant tapestry woven with love, tradition, and a touch of modern flair. Their Indian-themed celebration at The Henry Hotel was a testament to the beauty that unfolds when two cultures unite harmoniously.

As the sun cast its golden glow, Raj entered a traditional Baraat, arriving on a red convertible. The rhythmic beats of the dhol announced his arrival, setting the tone for the day's festivities. Not to be outdone, Megan graced the ceremony in a stunning ensemble that seamlessly blended contemporary elegance with traditional Indian motifs, turning heads and capturing hearts.

The reception was lively, with speeches that tugged at heartstrings and dances that set the floor ablaze. Megan & Raj's first dance was a mesmerizing fusion of Western ballroom grace and Bollywood flair, leaving guests in awe and setting the perfect tone for the evening. By the time the formalities were over, the only thing left was to party like there was no tomorrow. And let's say: this crowd understood the assignment. From Bollywood beats to Top 40 hits, DJ Genesis packed the floor all night. The energy? Through the roof.

Killer Creations Photography and Cinematography artfully captured every fleeting glance and joyous tear. Their keen eye for detail and storytelling prowess ensured that Megan & Raj's love story was immortalized in film and photo. Their professionalism and dedication were evident in every shot, making them an invaluable part of the celebration.

Behind the seamless flow of events was the meticulous planning of Marigold Wedding Planners. Their expertise in design and coordination transformed the venue into a dreamscape, reflecting Megan & Raj's vision to perfection. From the intricate floral arrangements to the ambient lighting, every detail was thoughtfully curated to create an unforgettable experience.

Megan's intricate bridal mehndi was an actual work of art—thanks to the talented Radhe Henna. Every delicate detail in her henna design held meaning and symbolism, adding a sentimental touch to an already unforgettable celebration. Megan's flawless bridal glow was thanks to the incredibly talented Amanie Mokdad and Hair By Rochelle J. The duo worked their magic to create a bridal look that was both timeless and modern—perfectly complementing Megan's stunning lehenga. Every detail was perfection, from bold, beautiful eyes to an elegant updo.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
Our story began in 2016 when Raj sent me a Facebook message out of the blue as many mutual friends had suggested to him that we'd be compatible -- it didn't take long for sparks to fly.

From the first date, I felt I could be completely myself around Raj. He inspired me to be my best, and we discovered a deep compatibility, tackling everything from the mundane to the momentous with ease. Most importantly, Raj immediately appreciated and reciprocated my off-beat wit and playful sarcasm – a clear tell to me that he was "the one".

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
During the Holidays in our sixth year, I came home planning to attend Raj's company Christmas party...or so I thought!

Raj took me to the same spot where we had our first Valentine's day, and decorated the hall with the help of our family and friends. When we first walked in, I thought we were intruding on someone else's proposal -- little did I know!

With our favorite song playing in the background, Raj got down on one knee to propose to my surprise -- Afterwards, we had an unforgettable night celebrating with our close family and friends!

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.
When we began planning our wedding, our top priority was creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for our guests while still bringing our dream wedding to life. Knowing how overwhelming wedding planning can be, we took it one step at a time, breaking down the process into manageable pieces. Things fell into place beautifully from there.

We started with the venue and were lucky enough to find one that perfectly balanced our needs with the elegant atmosphere we envisioned. Next, we hired a wedding planner whose expert guidance proved invaluable. She connected us with a fantastic team of vendors, including a hair and makeup artist, caterer, DJ, photographer/videographer, and of course, a talented decor specialist.

Choosing my bridal outfit in Toronto with my family was a truly emotional moment. It was then that it really hit me – this was actually happening!

For the decor, I had always envisioned a simple yet elegant, almost regal, theme. My planner perfectly captured this vision and offered wonderful recommendations to bring it to fruition.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
At first, I envisioned a traditional maroon velvet lehenga for my wedding. However, when I found my ultimate outfit, all my preconceived notions vanished. Even though it was different from what I had imagined, it felt absolutely perfect. Wearing it, I felt like royalty -- In that moment, I knew my bridal outfit was decided.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part of planning our wedding was the way it brought our families together. It truly takes a village to pull off a wedding, and we all had the same goal. Working together, we were challenged to have meaningful and honest conversations, which helped break down barriers and formalities, ultimately uniting us as one family.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Since our wedding, we've been so touched by the feedback from our guests. They especially loved the vibrant and warm atmosphere at every event, from the Mehndi to the Reception. We made it a point to keep the energy high and smiles on our faces, hoping that positive vibes were contagious and that our guests felt it, too.

We've also received rave reviews about the food. Even though we primarily served Indian dishes throughout our various events, our caterer did an incredible job of adding unique touches to each meal, keeping everything fresh and exciting!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
The special moment that replays in my mind is the First Look before our wedding. After getting ready for the ceremony, our photographer escorted me into into a private area where Raj was standing with his back turned -- from there, I tapped Raj on his shoulder, and with his back to me he slowly turned around and we had the same exact reaction, of pure excitement and jaws dropped --this has easily become my favorite picture from the wedding.

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.
Our wedding celebrations began with an intimate Haldi ceremony with close family and friends. This was followed by a vibrant and eventful Mehndi party at my family's home, officially kicking off the wedding weekend. Raj and I had a joint Mehndi, a wonderful opportunity to welcome our families and informally introduce them to each other. We played games to engage all our guests and exchanged gifts. My parents worked tirelessly to transform our home into the perfect event space, adorning it with colorful, fresh flowers to welcome everyone. We also had fireworks and a large welcome banner for Raj's family.

The Sangeet was all about vibrant color and high energy, creating a festive and celebratory atmosphere. we even incorporated custom-made Bollywood posters, replacing the actors with our our faces, like "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai." We had live food stations serving Indian street food, and a jam-packed program filled with dances from our loved ones, including a surprise performance from Raj and me.

For our reception, we chose a more sophisticated theme using neutral colors like gold and white. Heartfelt toasts from our best friends and moving speeches from our parents brought both tears of joy and laughter to our eyes. Finally, our DJ took over, and with an incredible Bollywood-American fusion mix, keeping everyone on the dance floor all night.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
While wedding planning can be challenging and demanding, it's important to take it one step at a time. This is a unique opportunity to create a truly special event, bringing together all the most important people in your lives. Prioritize what YOU want out of the experience and try to enjoy the process.

It's also essential to find a team that shares your vision and values. I was fortunate to have a strong support system to step in when needed, and vendors who expertly guided me through navigated uncharted waters.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
Early in the planning process, I sometimes questioned the value of hiring a wedding planner. Now, having gone through the experience, I can confidently say it's absolutely worth it. Especially when you're overwhelmed with the details, like timelines and itineraries, or even need expert advice on things like hair and makeup (which, as a first-time bride, I definitely did!), a good planner is invaluable.

Sweeties, with stunning details and heartfelt moments, this wedding was one for the books.

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Farida & Howard's wedding was more than just a celebration—it was a breathtaking fusion of tradition and modern luxury. Against the dazzling backdrop of Las Vegas, this Indian wedding seamlessly combined vibrant cultural elements, jaw-dropping décor, and a sprinkle of Sin City magic.

The couple exchanged vows at the ARIA Resort & Casino, a venue that epitomizes contemporary elegance with its sleek design and panoramic city views. Farida turned heads in a stunning custom bridal outfit by Wellgroomed Designs, while Howard embodied timeless sophistication as the debonair groom. Together, they were a vision of modern-day royalty.

One of the most unforgettable moments of the day was the Baraat, a grand entrance that stole the show. Howard arrived in style, stepping out of a Rolls Royce to the cheers of excited guests. Watching the festivities via FaceTime, Farida shared, "Seeing the excitement on the guests' faces and knowing that we would be married soon brought me no greater joy." The palpable energy, love, and joy of the moment were simply magical.

The ceremony itself was a masterpiece of design and emotion. Set beneath a stunning mandap created by Simply Weddings, intricate details and red cascading floral arrangements by Flora Couture provided the perfect backdrop for the couple's heartfelt vows. The festivities shifted to the sophisticated glamour of the NoMad Library for the reception. Candlelit tables, live music by Savannah Lynx, and electrifying sets by Ultra DJs and DJ Shai Peri kept the energy alive and the dance floor packed. To top it all off, the spectacular dancers by Posh Productions —talk about a great show!

The stunning imagery of Farida & Howard's wedding is brought to life through the incredible talent of The Brothers Martens. Their keen eye for detail, artistic perspective, and ability to capture the grandeur and intimate moments of the couple's special day are unparalleled. Their photography masterfully tells the story of love, joy, and tradition, from the vibrant pre-wedding celebrations to the heartfelt ceremony and elegant reception. Thanks to their remarkable dedication and skill, these photos are timeless reminders of a day filled with beauty and magic.

Farida described the wedding as a true feast for the senses, where every detail created an unforgettable experience. From the stunning aesthetics and delectable cuisine to signature cocktails, glamorous showgirls, dazzling disco dancers, and thoughtfully curated favors, every corner of the celebration offered something new to discover. It was a sensory overload that left guests in awe in the best way possible. Love this glamorous fusion of tradition and Vegas flair? For more swoon-worthy inspiration, follow us on Instagram and Facebook!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
JR asked to marry me by getting down on one knee in the middle of a bridge in Canmore, Alberta, a gorgeous mountain escape in the Canadian Rockies. The fact that the proposal was on a bridge was fitting, considering that our wedding and marriage would be a bridging of cultures, traditions, and families. I was shocked and surprised, but the "Yes" was sealed with kisses and hugs and tears and a gorgeous engagement ring that was expertly designed by JR.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
I live for planning. Thankfully so does my planner, Cristina. She and I were on the same wavelength and she clearly understood my vision. I enjoyed the efficiency and decisiveness with which we tackled the to-do list. Seeing the concepts we designed come to fruition on the day of the wedding was beyond my wildest dreams.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
The wedding was a feast for the senses. There was a new detail and experience to enjoy at every corner. Between the aesthetic, the food, the cocktails, the music, the showgirls, the disco dancers, the favours, it was practically sensory overload!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
I will never forget the moment watching over FaceTime JR exiting his Rolls Royce at the start of his Baraat. Seeing the excitement on the guests faces and knowing that we would be married soon, brought me no greater joy.

A day that will forever be etched in the hearts of those lucky enough to witness it. Enjoy it! 

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Nestled against the serene backdrop of the Sea of Cortez, the Grand Velas Los Cabos offered more than just luxury; it provided a canvas for Neha & Anand's dream wedding. Renowned for its exceptional service and breathtaking vistas, the venue seamlessly integrated the beauty of its surroundings with the opulence required for such a grand affair. The meticulous attention to detail by the resort ensured that each event was nothing short of spectacular, providing an unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests.

Their romance sparked at a family wedding in 2015, and it was clear from the start that Neha & Anand were meant to be. Their journey from friends to soulmates is a heartwarming tale of love, sacrifice, and the shared pursuit of dreams. Anand's grand proposal on a sunset cruise in the Bahamas was just the beginning of their beautiful story.

Neha's wedding attire was a journey through colors and designs; her choice of a red Seema Gujral lengha for the ceremony paid homage to tradition, while the reception gown by Falguni Shane Peacock showcased her modern aesthetic. Anand complemented Neha's style perfectly, donning custom pieces from Kora and Ermenegildo Zegna. His outfits mirrored his bride's elegance and added a personal touch to the wedding's grandeur.

Prashe Decor's decor and Leonela MX's floral arrangements transformed the venue into a dreamlike setting. Each event, from the colorful Haldi to the enchanting reception, was a visual feast, reflecting the couple's taste and the vibrancy of Indian celebrations. The reception was a highlight, with its romantic and mystical setup. The transformation of the space into a lively club atmosphere later in the evening showcased their love for vibrant, energetic celebrations. Empire Entertainment ensured the dance floor was never empty, creating an unforgettable night for everyone.

Nadia D Photography captured the essence of Neha & Anand's special day with a touch of magic and an eye for the timeless. Having previously photographed a significant family event, Nadia was a sentimental choice for the couple, bringing a deeper emotional connection to each frame. Her ability to blend into the background while capturing intimate moments allowed the couple to relive their wedding through beautifully candid and vibrant images.

Reflecting on Neha's wedding planning journey, a vital advice for future brides emerges: Embrace the planning process as a part of your story, not just a means to an end. Neha's deep connection with her vendors, especially her wedding planner, turned the logistics of wedding planning into a series of joyful experiences and lasting friendships.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
Our story begins in 2015 in Maykoba, Mexico at Anand’s sister’s wedding. When I met Anand, I felt as if I had just met an old friend. It was comfortable from the start, an easy friendship. After the wedding, I returned to Chicago, where I was in medical school, and Anand returned home to Florida. We continued to keep in touch, and after months of phone calls, facetime, and weekend trips together, we began our long-distance relationship. Despite the distance, Anand was my rock through the stressful times of medical school and applying to a dermatology residency. Eventually, Anand moved to Chicago to be closer to me and pursue his MBA at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Getting to chase our dreams together and watching all the sacrifices Anand made and continues to make for me, for us, for our careers, and for our future makes me fall in love with him all over again, day after day.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
After patiently waiting six years, Anand pulled off the surprise of a lifetime, proposing to me on a private sunset cruise around the Bahamas. The best part? Anand secretly flew out both of our families from Chicago and Florida and hid them in the cabin of the yacht, only for them to emerge as he got down on one knee. We spent the next few days relaxing in paradise with our loved ones – it was the start of many celebrations to come.

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.
As we set forth to plan our wedding, we wanted to honor our past – a destination wedding in Mexico was an easy choice. To capture the weekend, we reconnected with talented photographer Nadia D, who photographed Anand’s sister’s wedding, where we first met. Although Nadia had given up wedding photography several years ago, she gracefully emerged from retirement to capture the essence of our love story, of which she had unknowingly been a part since day one. Our wedding date was special to us as well, and was chosen to honor our culture, our grandparents, and our (Neha’s) dad. We chose to get married on Diwali weekend - our grandparent’s favorite holiday. Auspiciously, Diwali fell on the same weekend as Veterans’ Day, a holiday special to Neha and her family. Neha’s dad is a first-generation immigrant who served as a captain in the US Air Force when he first came to this country while pursuing his medical career. It is an achievement few people know of, but one that both he and Neha are most proud of. 

Anand and I planned every aspect of our wedding together. We wanted our ceremony to embody our traditional Indian roots as well as our Western upbringing. We exchanged personal vows alongside the traditional Saat pheras. This blend of customs allowed us to express our individual commitments while honoring our Indian heritage. The personal vows, spoken in front of our loved ones, highlighted the equality in our partnership and our shared vision for the future. One of the most striking aspects of the ceremony was the presence of a female priestess, a choice that challenged traditional norms and underscored our commitment to gender equality. We made a conscious decision to skip the Vidaai ceremony, which traditionally symbolizes the bride's departure from her family. By omitting this ritual, we emphasized that our marriage was not about separation but rather the union of two families. Additionally, Neha accessorized her custom-made red Seema Gujral lengha with family heirlooms from both sides – a silver and ruby necklace passed down by Anand's mother and a gold ring from her Nani.

For the reception, Neha embodied her Western roots in a custom blush champagne silver beaded gown with an attached cape and train, created in collaboration with celebrity Indian designer Falguni Shane Peacock. She wanted a look that was stunningly simple, something that reflected her personality. The reception venue was transformed into a romantic wonderland, with a black, dimly lit room filled with life-like pampas trees and an explosion of white and cream flowers. We wanted to create an atmosphere that was both intimate and grand. The evening featured traditional first dances, with a touching addition of Neha dancing with her new father-in-law and Anand with his new mother-in-law, symbolizing the union of their families. As the night progressed, the elegant reception transformed into a high-energy club scene, capturing Anand's love for electronic music. LED ropes, pinheads, lasers, and CO2 guns created an electrifying atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end our celebration—honoring our roots while embracing our love for modern, vibrant experiences. The joy of seeing their family and friends wholeheartedly embrace both of their cultures was a powerful reminder that love truly has the remarkable ability to unite people and celebrate diversity. This was our day—a true reflection of our love story and the beginning of a new chapter amidst the warmth of our loved ones.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Becoming friends with our vendors. We looked forward to every call with our wedding planner, Nirali, and spent the first 25-30 minutes of each call catching up on each other's lives and reminiscing on our weeks. Nirali got engaged prior to our wedding in Chicago, and we got to be a part of the surprise proposal and weekend celebrations. To this day, Nirali is a close friend of ours, and we feel special to have had her as part of our wedding and now part of our lives!

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Our guests loved how our wedding reflected who we were, both as individuals and as a couple. We hosted nearly all our events at the Grand Velas, where all of our guests stayed, so our families and friends really got to know one another over the weekend and spent time together. There's no better feeling than having all your loved ones together - getting to do it in paradise was just the cherry on top.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Following the ceremony, we hosted a private dinner at Velas 10, the on-site restaurant, with Michelin-star Chef Anand catering the event. Both of us are huge foodies, and many of our favorite memories together are trying new cuisines and culinary experiences, so it was important to us to provide a unique and unforgettable dining experience for our loved ones. The celebration continued at Bagatelle nightclub for a night of revelry and to reminisce on our trip together to Miami, where we officially began dating. We kicked off the night with a grand entrance that included bottles of champagne and table dancing.

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 the Haldi, Neha chose to wear a stunning green Ritika Mirchandani sharara set for the Haldi ceremony, while Anand embraced tradition in a classic yellow kurta set. As a dermatologist, Neha incorporated her expertise into the event, opting for the Kiehls Turmeric Energizing Radiance Mask, a modern twist on the traditional Haldi application for that glowing pre-wedding radiance.

For the Sangeet, Neha dazzled in a floral Shyamal and Bhumika lehenga with an off-shoulder blouse. The venue transformed into a Mexican Fiesta Fairytale with floral accents adorning the dance floor, bar, and DJ booth. The night was illuminated by overhead fairy lights, and tequila girls added a touch of local flavor, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
The Hindu ceremony took place on a rooftop overlooking the ocean, bathed in the golden hues of sunset. Décor artist Prashe teamed up with Mexico City florist Leonela to bring our vision to life: chrome-lined aisles reflecting the sky and a mandap adorned with Neha's favorite flowers, lilies. A harp and violinist duo played as Neha made her grand entrance into a sea of lilies in a customized monochrome red Seema Gujral lehenga and a dazzling silver and ruby necklace passed down to her from her new mother-in-law.  The ceremony was conducted by a priestess, symbolizing the couple’s commitment to modernism and progressiveness. After concluding their personal vows, a burst of red smoke filled the sky with intermixed fireworks as we were pronounced husband and wife.

Their wedding showcased the beauty of blending cultures and embracing individuality.

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