Welcome to Maharani Weddings

Some love stories are written in the stars, but Maria & Chris's began across the hall in a freshman dorm at Hofstra University. From college sweethearts to life partners, their journey led to a breathtaking fusion of cultures in a spectacular Indian wedding in East Brunswick.

Maria & Chris' wedding wasn't just a one-day affair but a grand, multi-day celebration that combined tradition, glamour, and nonstop fun. The couple started with a tropical disco-themed Sangeet at Edgewood Country Club, where vibrant florals, dazzling disco balls, and colorful outfits made for an unforgettable night. The energy was electric as their bridal party, and family put on epic performances, setting the tone for what was to come.

A wedding like this doesn't just happen—it's the result of an A-team of vendors executing perfection at every turn. The masterminds behind the seamless planning and flawless execution were the Detailed Affairs Team, who brought their expertise to every single moment, ensuring that Maria & Chris's vision was flawlessly executed. As for the decor, think elegant luxury meets modern romance.The Productions Agency transformed the space into a dreamscape of white florals with pops of blue and gold, mirroring the couple's classic-meets-contemporary aesthetic.

The wedding day itself was a fairytale. Maria & Chris honored their traditions by having two stunning ceremonies in one day. The Hindu ceremony took place in the lush gardens of Park Chateau, under a breathtaking mandap adorned with cascading roses in shades of red, pink, and white. Maria made a visionary bride in a monochromatic cherry-red lehenga, bringing modern elegance to this sacred tradition.

If there was ever a wedding reception that redefined 'party of the year,' this was it. DJ USA Events, alongside DJs Juicy, KKV, and Karan, kept the dance floor packed all night long. MC Marco Glorious ensured the energy never dipped, and even the groom got in on the action—Chris made a grand entrance wielding a CO2 gun, hyping up the crowd in true Bollywood-meets-Hollywood style! It was the perfect setting for heartfelt speeches, emotional first dances, and a stunning cake from Calandra's Bakery that looked too good to eat.

This grand wedding deserves to be captured in a way that tells the whole story, and Diego Stuart Films did just that. With cinematic brilliance, they documented every heartfelt glance, every joyful tear, and every dance-floor moment in stunning detail. J'adore Love Photography turned every glance, twirl, and candid laugh into breathtaking works of art. Their ability to encapsulate emotions through the lens is nothing short of extraordinary, preserving Maria & Chris's big day in a timeless way.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
We met our freshman year of college at Hofstra University in New York (September 2013). Chris and I lived directly across the hall from each other in the dorms. We met the first week of school and immediately connected. Here we are over 11 years later!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
One of our favorite places to travel together is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where my family owns a vacation home. We started going here during college, and it has been many times since. Chris decided to propose Brookgreen Gardens in South Carolina, which is a gorgeous outdoor botanical garden with sculptures and lights. Chris proposed on the night of June 10, 2023, under the beautiful oak trees. Both of our parents came out to surprise me. We all went to a celebratory family dinner together afterward, and it was a perfect day!

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.
We had a big wedding that included multiple days of events. The wedding planning process was very involved, but the team of vendors we had made sure that everything was executed to perfection. Our team was absolutely fabulous.

We had our Sangeet at Edgewood Country Club in NJ. We had a tropical disco theme, and the venue and staff were awesome. We had such a fun night to kick off our wedding, and everyone had a good time!

Our wedding day, July 27, 2024, was at Park Chateau Estate and Gardens in NJ. On our wedding day, we actually had two ceremonies in one day: a Hindu Ceremony in the outdoor gardens and a traditional Western ceremony in the Chapel. We followed the ceremonies with a reception and after-party, all held right at the venue. I truly mean it when I say you cannot find a more gorgeous venue or better staff than at Park Chateau. The entire day was absolutely perfect, and we had the wedding of our dreams.-

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I really wanted a monochromatic, modern lehenga for the Hindu ceremony. I went with a cherry red color, which turned out absolutely gorgeous. I also had a white wedding dress with a beautiful lace train and cathedral veil for our traditional ceremony. I changed into a beaded white dress with feathers for the reception.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Overall, I enjoyed the planning process because I am a very organized, Type A person. The best part was seeing our hard work and vision come to life at our events. Everything turned out perfect.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
I think that the beautiful venues, fun music, delicious food, and interesting decor all added to the guest experience. However, the vibes and energy at all of our events were so fun because of our friends and family who made our wedding incredible.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
There are so many amazing moments from our wedding day - it's hard to pick. Since we had two ceremonies, I would say that walking down the aisle (both times!) was so special and emotional.

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 sangeet was cool since we had a tropical disco theme. We had disco balls and tropical florals. The decor and everyone's outfits were very colorful and exotic. Our bridal party and family put on performances, which were a big hit. This night was so much fun and enjoyable!

Our wedding day was a more traditional and classic. Our Mandap florals had shades of pink, red, and white roses, which complimented the beautifully landscaped gardens at Park Chateau. Our traditional ceremony and reception decor and florals were white, pops of light blue, and gold. Everything turned out beautifully.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
It truly goes by so fast. Really try to enjoy the day and take in every moment that you can. Don't stress over the little details; no one will notice if something is slightly different than you planned for. Most importantly, enjoy your day with your new spouse and the people who love you.

The celebration may end, but the memories will last a lifetime and bring joy. Come back for more!

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Sarika and Zach’s wedding was a dream celebration that beautifully merged Indian traditions with Western elegance. Hosted at the opulent Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco, the two-day affair beautifully planned, designed and decorated by Dazzling Streaks was a vibrant showcase of their love story, shared cultures, and joyful union of families.

Their journey began in Boston in 2019, where Sarika, fresh from California to attend Harvard Business School, decided to stay in town for Thanksgiving. A chance swipe on a dating app led her to Zach. Despite showing up 45 minutes late for their date, Sarika was captivated the moment she spotted Zach at their table in The Alibi bar. Hours of heartfelt conversation later, she knew she had found someone extraordinary.

Fast forward to their proposal, and Zach left no stone unturned to create a moment that perfectly reflected their bond. Disguised as a birthday celebration for a friend, Sarika was led to Boston Common’s Public Garden, where Zach awaited her with a life-changing question. He proposed at a spot they frequented during their relationship, adding a deeply personal touch. What followed was an incredible surprise celebration with 50 of their closest friends and family at the Boston Public Library.

Sarika and her mother worked tirelessly to design a wedding that honored their Tamil roots while embracing Western customs. San Francisco was the ideal location for its proximity to her family in Sacramento and the city’s vibrant charm. The Ritz-Carlton, with its luxurious amenities and ability to host four distinct events seamlessly, became the perfect venue for their vision.

The festivities kicked off with a lively Mehndi, where guests were immersed in a Garba celebration led by Sarika’s best friend, a former Raas-Garba dancer. Dressed in a playful Papa Don’t Preach lehenga and hands adorned with henna by Neeta Desai Sharma, Sarika radiated joy as friends and family joined in the dancing. 

The Sangeet was a night to remember, with performances by family and friends, including a Bollywood-style dance by Zach and his groomsmen. Sarika stunned in a contemporary Gaurav Gupta ensemble, perfectly embodying the fusion theme of the wedding. Amber India catered the event, delighting guests with a flavorful spread of Indian delicacies.

The Tamil wedding ceremony on The Ritz-Carlton’s terrace was a true celebration of tradition.

Sarika looked resplendent in a hot pink Anushree Reddy lehenga, a bold departure from traditional red, while Zach donned an elegant Shyamal & Bhumika sherwani. The ritual of Malai Maathal, where the bride and groom playfully competed to garland each other first, had everyone cheering.

The weekend concluded with a stunning Western reception, where Sarika dazzled in a shimmering Gaurav Gupta gown. Guests reveled in the chic decor, delicious cuisine, and an impromptu flip-cup game organized by Zach’s friends. At the reception, Zach's friends brought beer pong/flip cup supplies and for ~30 minutes in the middle of the party, almost all the guests played a long-line game of flip cup.

The couple’s thoughtful touches left a lasting impression on their guests. At the Sangeet, the seating chart was presented as jewelry boxes, each containing a piece of Indian jewelry for guests to wear. At the wedding, a photo wall featuring Sarika and Zach with individual guests doubled as the seating arrangement.

The emotional highlight came during the Western ceremony when Sarika’s sister sang 'Can’t Help Falling in Love' as their father walked her down the aisle. The heartfelt performance added a layer of intimacy to an already magical moment.

Sarika and Zach’s wedding was a true celebration of love, family, and culture. Every detail, from the joyful Baraat procession through the streets of San Francisco to the personalized decor, reflected their personalities and the beauty of their union.

Sarika and Zach’s wedding captured beautifully by Gautam Khullar Photography was a heartfelt celebration of two cultures and one incredible love story—a weekend their guests will cherish forever.

How did you choose your wedding outfits?

I always imagined wearing a red lehenga, but when I tried the pink Anushree Reddy piece, I instantly knew it was the one—it felt bridal yet unique. For Zach, we focused on outfits that complemented mine while reflecting his personality.

What advice would you give future couples?

A: Invest in personal touches that reflect your relationship—they make the experience memorable for everyone.

What was your favorite part of the wedding?

The Sangeet! Zach’s Bollywood dance with 20 of his friends was a crowd favorite, and seeing everyone’s energy made it unforgettable. At our Sangeet, the groomsmen dance was a huge standout! Zach and 20+ of his mostly non-Indian friends went all out on a full bollywood dance! They brought so much energy that all the guests were up out of the chair cheering!

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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Ready to be inspired? Check out Krina & Jon's vibrant celebration on the Platinum Guide Blog!

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
I met Jonathan on a cold January day. I had driven from Boston to Michigan for a medical school interview. I saw a quiet man sitting alone and immediately thought to myself that I would definitely shine next to him. We ended up both getting accepted to the same medical school,l and the rest is history.

I was raised in a traditional Gujarati household and never thought I would fall in love with a Taiwanese Michigander. On the surface, there were significant cultural differences but when I got to know Jonathan more, I realized that an individual's cultural and religious background does not matter as much as their personality. The more I got to know Jonathan, the more I realized that we had a lot in common with similar upbringings. I knew Jonathan was the one when he flew to Boston to meet my parents and promised them that he would do anything to keep me happy for the rest of his life.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Jonathan knew I always loved a romantic picnic but we never had much time as we were in a long-distance relationship. One of of our trips to San Diego, Jonathan drove me to one of our favorite locations, Torrey Pines, for a picnic. He had all my favorite snacks, which basically make up a charcuterie board. In true Jonathan fashion, he asked me to pose for a picture facing the water and when I turned around, he was down on one knee!

I honestly cannot tell you what he said next because I immediately started crying. The next few moments were such a blur but the perfect start to our forever.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Food tasting has to be the best part of any planning process. We have always bonded on their love for food. We both love trying new cuisines and making Indian and Asian delicacies. The best part of wedding planning was creating a fusion menu that highlighted our favorite meals growing up. It was so fun to work with the chef and create fun dessert flavors and a cocktail menu. As two doctors in vastly different medical fields, we knew they HAD to have nerdy cocktail names. I am a cardiologist who thrives in the chaos of an ICU, whereas Jonathan is an ophthalmologist who enjoys the routine in his clinic. Their specialty drinks were called Code Blue and Pink Eye.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
One thing we have constantly heard from our guests was how special they felt. They received constant communication from our planners and did not have to worry about getting to and fro the wedding venues. They felt like the wedding was very intimate even though the guest size was ~140 guests.

Despite all the traditional aspects of the wedding, they felt very included and enjoyed being involved. They loved how much our families danced and wanted everyone to be on the dance floor at all times. Lastly, we have heard from sooo many people that the food was incredible. Everything from the traditional Gujarati srikhand to the indo-Chinese was top-notch and one of theri best wedding meals.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Growing up, every girl dreams of their wedding day. I was raised in Gujarat and had always thought I would get married in the traditional manner somewhere in India. Never in a million years did I think I would be having not one but two wedding ceremonies on a beach surrounded by our loved ones. I could not have imagined having a fusion wedding that equally celebrated and respected Krina and Jonathan's upbringing.

One of my favorite moments was walking down to the beach for our first look. Jonathan was waiting by the beach. I could hear him holding his breath as he heard me getting closer. Seeing each other that morning made it all real. Through the tears, we looked at each other and knew that we had made it.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Remember to eat. Indian weddings are long and stressful. I did not sleep until probably midnight after our Sangeet and had to be up at 3:30 for hair and makeup. I had no appetite and did not eat a big breakfast prior to getting into my wedding outfit. my lehnga weighed >40 lbs and I was minutes from passing out before my entrance towards the mandap. My advise-EAT and stay hydrated!

Despite all the planning, things will go wrong, and things will happen out of your control. Your loved ones will spend more time on ceremonies that may not be as important to you. Remember that this may be your wedding, but it also is a very important day for your parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and wedding party. Let them celebrate you!

Plan your hair and makeup trial on a humid/hot day and keep it on for the rest of the day. This way, you can prepare for the worst and see what adjustments need to be made. During my makeup trial, it incidentally happened to be a rainy day. I noticed that my undereye makeup got very cakey in the humidity. I spent the next few months finding a primer and setting powder that worked for my skin, and my makeup was truly flawless.

This Riviera Maya celebration was a true testament to love crossing all boundaries.

Jhankarlo Photography is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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It is a tranquil lakeside venue, shimmering with the golden hues of sunset. Willowbrook Weddings in Valant, PA, provided the idyllic backdrop for Kaajal & Katy's celebration of love. This Indian LGBTQ+ wedding was not just a union but a jubilant fusion of tradition, modernity, and unapologetic joy that left everyone spellbound.

Kaajal & Katy's wedding was a breath of fresh air—literally and metaphorically. The couple's first look was nothing short of cinematic. Nestled under the cascading branches of a weeping willow, Katy turned to see Kaajal adorned in a stunning white and gold lehenga with intricate pink floral embroidery by Nazrana Anj. The moment was magic, a perfect mix of serenity and excitement. With delicate lace detailing, Katy's MB Bride gown complemented Kaajal's ensemble—a flawless pairing, much like the two brides themselves.

Their ceremony, set by the lake, combined heartfelt vows with a gorgeous floral mandap and Katy's bouquet crafted by Teton Wood Blooms. With the soft rustling of leaves and the occasional cheer from a delighted guest, Kaajal & Katy's union became the talk of Valant.

When you hear DJ Desibeatzs Entertainment, you'd better be ready to dance. The reception was a rhythmic whirlwind, with Desibeatzs masterfully blending Bollywood beats with Top 40 hits. From the newlyweds' first dance to their impromptu Bhangra performance, the night was an electrifying celebration of their diverse cultural backgrounds.

Holly Ferencuha Photography captured every candid laugh, every shared glance, and every tear of joy. The photos radiate warmth and authenticity, from the serene outdoor shots by the lake to the energetic dance floor snaps. And speaking of authentic moments, can we take a second to appreciate Katy's bold tattoo juxtaposed with her delicate lace gown? Absolute bridal goals.

Kaajal's bridal jewelry from Nazrana Anj Jewels was a dazzling nod to her Indian heritage. Wanderlust Beauty PGH and ZZbeauty PGH ensured both brides looked radiant, weaving together timeless elegance and contemporary flair. The wedding rings from Henne Jewelers symbolized a promise as enduring as the love that Kaajal & Katy share.

How did you meet your Wife and when did you know she was "the one"?
My wife and I met on Hinge and spoke on the phone the first night we started messaging. We met the very next day, and within 1 week, we knew we had met our person.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
We were on a trip to Cancun, Mexico and I wanted to propose to Katy on the beach but I wanted it to be captured. I planned for a photography session, and when we made it to the beach, I proposed and it's all caught on camera!

Katy later proposed to me on a hotel rooftop, which completely caught me by surprise. It was raining a little, but she got clear umbrellas and it turned out perfectly. She even surprised me with my best friends being there!

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.
We started with our venue and very quickly found Willowbrook, with which we were immensely impressed. Everything else came along slowly, with the most difficult being hair and makeup. Of course, you want to look your absolute best, so finding the perfect people for the job was huge. We wanted our color theme to be based on my Indian outfit, as Katy's dress was going to be white, so finding my outfit early on was important. We traveled to New Jersey to make that happen so that we had more options!

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
We traveled to New Jersey to allow for more options and only went to a couple of stores before finding the perfect lengha. I tried on a few different ones, but once I put on that dress, it was clear. For Katy's dress, we went to a store in Pittsburgh where she tried on a few dresses and finally found the perfect one! We went together to both stores-- it meant a lot to us to be able to do this together.

Q. What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
The guests absolutely loved our dhol players and DJ. They loved the fun and atmosphere that was created. The venue stood out to a lot of our guests as the grounds are also beautiful there.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Our entrance to the reception replays in my mind as there was so much energy and excitement throughout the venue. It was just so fun, and the DJ and dhol players truly made our night! We were so happy, and everyone was celebrating us. It felt incredible.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
I would say that it is so important to do things the way you want them to be together. The whole process can be tiresome, but these details are what matters in the end, and being able to choose these things together is such a special time. Go with your heart and enjoy each moment of the day itself.

This wedding celebrated love in its purest form—inclusive, joyous, and utterly beautiful.

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