The Platinum Guide Blog

When blending tradition with a sprinkle of modern magic, Jill & Paras' wedding in Orlando, Florida, took the crown (and maybe a couple of hearts). This was not just a wedding but an experience—a mesmerizing tale of vibrant colors, heartfelt traditions, and timeless elegance that could make even a Bollywood director take notes.

Jill's walk down to Paras during their first look moment was cinematic. Jill was the epitome of elegance, dressed in a fiery red bridal lengha that seemed to glow with every intricate embroidery detail. Paras, standing poised in his golden sherwani, had an expression that screamed, "This is my Bollywood moment!" And, oh, Jill tapped him on the shoulder before he turned around—the suspense had the few lucky spectators (and maybe even the photographer) holding their breath.

The ceremony at the Hilton Orlando was steeped in rich Indian traditions, yet Jill & Paras infused it with personal touches that reflected their story. Walking hand-in-hand under a canopy of cascading white blooms, they radiated joy and shared a laughter-filled moment that had guests chuckling and tearing up simultaneously.

Jill's intricate mehndi designs were a showstopper. The delicate patterns told a story of love and union, with hidden details that Paras proudly showed guests. And speaking of Paras, he made a grand entrance with his baraat, dancing with infectious energy and proving that he truly knows how to make an impression. Elite Dream Creations orchestrated every detail of Jill & Paras' wedding with impeccable precision and creativity. From coordinating traditional elements to ensuring the seamless flow of events, their expertise brought the couple's dream celebration to life.

As the reception unfolded, the stage design by Dreams to Reality created an ambiance that can only be described as dreamlike. Gold accents intertwined with lush greenery and chandeliers that sparkled like stars, creating the perfect setting for Jill & Paras' first dance. The couple swayed to their favorite song, and let's say it wasn't just the chandeliers that dazzled everyone. Awaaz Entertainment brought the energy to the reception with a perfectly curated playlist that kept the dance floor packed all night long

Andrew Do Photography brought unmatched expertise to Jill & Paras' wedding, turning every moment into a visual symphony. With a style that effortlessly combines vibrant editorial drama and intimate candor, Andrew captured everything from the intricate details of Jill's bridal ensemble to the unscripted emotions shared between family and friends. His lighting, composition, and timing highlighted the couple's love story with cinematic flair, ensuring each frame was dynamic and timeless. Whether it was Paras' joyful baraat or the couple's tender first dance, Andrew's photography immortalized every detail with an artistic touch.

This wedding was a testament to love, from a glowing couple to an unforgettable celebration. 

Dreams to Reality and Andrew Do Photography are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

Dreams to Reality VIEW PORTFOLIO

Andrew Do Photography VIEW PORTFOLIO

For more information on how Platinum Guide members are chosen, click here.

Some love stories are destined to be eternal, and Poonam & Wesley's journey is the kind you'd see in the closing scene of a Bollywood blockbuster — heartfelt, vibrant, and utterly magical. Let's dive into their dream wedding, a celebration of tradition and modern flair that left everyone awestruck!

"Wesley and I met the summer between my first and second year of optometry school," Poonam reminisced. "We were introduced by a classmate who'd been best friends with him since kindergarten. After talking all night, we knew we had an instant connection." It was a perfect start to a lifetime of love and shared adventures. When Wesley popped the question in May 2023, it was pure magic. After purchasing their first home, he fell on one knee on their front porch. "It was just the two of us — intimate, sweet, and completely us," Poonam shared.

Every inch of Poonam & Wesley's wedding was a testament to their personality. From the vibrant Haldi and Mehendi ceremonies to the disco jungle-themed Sangeet, their wedding events embodied joy, love, and originality. Held at the stunning St. John's Inn, the venue provided a timeless backdrop for every celebration.

Poonam's flawless glow and stunning hairstyles were courtesy of the dynamic duo Beeuty Bee and Primp Me Up. They worked tirelessly to bring her vision to life, ensuring she looked and felt her best at every event. From her ethereal bridal look to the bold and playful styles at the Sangeet, they nailed every detail. Poonam's mehndi included intricate details like an Ohio State logo (where they met), an eye (a nod to her optometry career), and a custom bride and groom design. Radhe Henna's artistry was a showstopper!

The moments that took your breath away? Thank Killer Creations Photography and Cinematography for capturing every smile, tear, and twirl. Whether it was Poonam's radiant bridal entrance or Wesley's baraat on a horse-drawn carriage, these talented photographers told their story frame by frame, leaving no detail unnoticed.

Pulling off such an elaborate and stunning wedding takes skill, and Marigold Wedding Planners was up to the challenge. They flawlessly executed Poonam & Wesley's vision from decor to event design. The sultry, candle-lit reception was an ode to romance, while the bright, traditional colors of the pre-wedding events kept guests smiling all day long.

The party didn't stop, thanks to Sugar Events & Entertainment, whose DJ kept the dance floor alive all night. From classic Bollywood hits to modern chart-toppers, the music had everyone on their feet, making unforgettable memories.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
Wesley and I met the summer between my first and second year of optometry school at a party. We were introduced by a classmate of mine who had been best friends with him since kindergarten. After talking all night we knew we had an instant connection, and continued to see each other after that night.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
In May of 2023, Wesley and I purchased our first home together. The day we closed and got the keys to the house, Wes got down on one knee on our front porch and asked me to marry him. It was perfect and just the two of us.

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.
Our vendors were amazing to work with! I had always dreamed of getting married at the Saint John's resort, and up until a few years ago, they only allowed Catholic weddings. It felt like fate when we inquired about their venue when they had just opened it up to all religious backgrounds. My inspiration for the decor was wanting to embody elements of us. For our Haldi and Mehendi, I wanted the bright traditional colors. For our Sangeet, I wanted to do something non-traditional and chose to do a disco jungle theme. I wanted it to be fun and have more of a Miami vibe than your typical sangeet decor. For the wedding, we wanted it to have that dreamy feel, and for the reception, we wanted it to be sultry/romantic. I wanted our guests to be able to feel the love we shared for one another by creating an environment that embodied that. I also picked outfits that matched each event but captured my personality in it. Our hair and makeup team was SO amazing to work with; they listened to everything I wanted, and I had never felt more beautiful in my life.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I knew I wanted to do traditional red, I LOVE an Indian bride in red. We most of my outfits from India, and I knew I wanted something a little different than what I was used to seeing. Once I found it I knew I had to have it.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Food tasting hands down was the best part, we had so many unique cuisines that it was exciting to try everything. I also really enjoyed planning the smaller details that brought everything together.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
The food and drinks!!! Our bartenders from the venue created craft cocktails for our guests that we didn't have to request, they just did it.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Walking down the aisle. I had picked the perfect combination of songs to play, but when I was walking down, I felt like no one else in the room was there except my husband. It honestly felt like a movie moment for me, and all I could feel was love and joy.

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.
The Haldi and Mehendi were outdoors, which naturally has a lot of green, so we wanted to stick with the bright, vibrant colors to contrast nicely. Our Sangeet I wanted a disco jungle theme -- the room where we hosted the event at our venue has large glass ceilings with lots of greenery within it. We had centerpieces made with tall vases with pink ostrich feathers and smaller disco balls filled with hot pink bougainvilleas. I really just wanted the sangeet to be fun, with fun foods. We catered our food from Paradise Street Eats where we had loaded butter chicken and paneer fries, butter chicken and paneer tacos, tandoori chicken wings, and so much more fun street food.
Our wedding reception I wanted to have a more sultry romantic feel. I am not the biggest fan of florals and wanted to do more greenery and candle light.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Enjoy the planning process! There were definitely stressful moments, and there will be things that don't go your way -- but the day of, the only thing you're thinking about is the person you love the most. I would 10/10 highly recommend having your coordinator set up a private sitting area for you and your husband to eat dinner away from all your guests. We did this, and it honestly was the best way for us to spend quality time together and actually EAT without having people coming up to you.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
My mehndi artist was amazing and captured so many beautiful details, including the Ohio State logo, which is where we met, an eye because I'm an optometrist, monogram initials, and a beautiful bride and groom display.

I wanted unique touches at our reception, so we had a martini ice luge and had them make lychee martinis to pour down!

We did a dessert bar from Sweet Dreams along with wedding cake because we wanted to have more options, and I'm still dreaming about the macaron tower.

We stuck with the traditional baraat, having Wes come in on the horse and everyone loved it!! I'm kind of tired of seeing the sports cars, but our horse also came with a carraige so after the ceremony Wes and I both left in the carraige together. It was very fairytale like and I loved it!

Our photobooth was AMAZING! I wanted a Kardashian esq photobooth, without any props or signs. I couldn't rave enough about UV Photobooth, they were great to work with.

Poonam & Wesley’s wedding was a celebration of love, culture, and personality.

Killer Creations Photography and Cinematography and Marigold Wedding Planners are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

Killer Creations Photography and Cinematography VIEW PORTFOLIO

Marigold Wedding Planners VIEW PORTFOLIO

For more information on how Platinum Guide members are chosen, click here.

Nirali & Varun's love story began at a party in Los Angeles, a serendipitous encounter that sparked an unbreakable bond. Three dates in five days? Talk about fast-tracking romance! Their connection deepened over monthly meet-ups nationwide, culminating in a Zoom graduation appearance and an impressively thoughtful gift of a Roth IRA. (Yes, financial planning can be romantic!)

The festivities kicked off at the Suburban Showplace, which the exceptionally talented Marigold Wedding Planners masterfully transformed into a colorful haven. Their meticulous attention to detail ensured that every element—from the vibrant decor to the seamless coordination—left guests in awe. The sangeet was an explosion of energy, with dance performances choreographed by the couple's talented friends. Punjab Indian Cuisine tantalized taste buds, while DJ Rohit Goswamy kept everyone on their feet.

Saint John's Resort set the stage for a dreamy ceremony in their Garden Pavilion. Surrounded by the stunning Michigan fall foliage, the couple exchanged vows under a breathtaking mandap adorned with soft florals and greenery. With intricate rose-gold accents, Nirali's custom ivory-white lengha from Frontier Raas left everyone in awe while Varun looked dashing in his cream sherwani. As the sunlight streamed through the glass walls, Magda's soulful violin tunes created a serene ambiance, making this moment feel like a scene from a romantic classic.

The Suburban Showplace welcomed guests back for an unforgettable reception. Nirali dazzled in a fiery red gown, and Varun complemented her perfectly in a velvet tuxedo. Farhat Sweets curated a dessert table that was a feast for the eyes and the palate. Fun fact: the couple cut a birthday cake for Varun, adding a personal touch to the celebrations!

The talented team at Urban Phulkari beautifully captured every breathtaking moment of Nirali & Varun's wedding. From the intimate glances shared under the mandap to the lively energy of the sangeet, their lens transformed fleeting moments into timeless memories. Their attention to detail and creative perspective brought the couple's love story to life, showcasing the wedding's joy, emotions, and stunning aesthetics. 

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
We met at a party when I was visiting Los Angeles. He somehow knew my older brother and sister-in-law from across the country, but we had never met. We went on three dates within 5 days of meeting, and when I went back to the other side of the country, we kept talking and meeting every month for 5 months. I knew he was the one when he attended my graduate school graduation via Zoom, and he gifted me money to open a Roth IRA before we even officially dating. We started dating a few weeks later, and in less than 2 years, we were engaged.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
We were supposed to meet our friends for a double date at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, where we had our second date. I was actually asking him when he was going to propose 15 minutes before he actually got down on one knee. I genuinely had no idea! The surprises continued all night as our friends and family joined us in celebrating at the same club we first met at in Los Angeles.

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.
Planning our wedding was a full combined family effort as we were planning a wedding in my home state of Michigan while living in California. I have to give my husband a shout-out because the whole process would’ve been much more difficult without his negotiating and planning skills.

I dreamt of a unique wedding venue that was different than all the ones I have typically seen in metro Detroit. Tina from Marigold Planners heard our families' wishes and helped us find the perfect wedding venue at Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth, MI, about an hour away from where I grew up. The Garden Pavilion, in my opinion, was perfect for someone seeking a simple but elegant canvas for a wedding. The 360 glass walls of the pavilion allowed guests to enjoy the beautiful fall morning in Michigan.

For my wedding shopping, I didn’t have the time to go to India myself for shopping so I did all my shopping from online or through the help of family in India.

My hair and make up were on point the whole weekend, thanks to Simona Vigh (hair) and Amanie Mokdad (make up). I wanted something different for each look and trusted the artists to do their job and they did a phenomenal job.

For our wedding decor theme, we chose an ethereal forest theme.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I had always wanted an off-white wedding dress. I had seen a dress at Frontier raas in different materials and colors and got a custom dress made from them in an ivory-white color. When I saw the dress for the first time, I was in awe of the stunning, intricate designs and handwork and unique rose gold color accents. I couldn’t hide the details of my outfits from my fiancé, so I wanted to surprise him with at least one element of my outfit: my veil. The veil came together last minute, within 2-3 weeks before the wedding!

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Being able to plan easily with our parents and fiancé.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
The food and music, as well as the coordination for the weekend. Sangeet and Reception food is prepared by Punjab Cuisine, and the wedding food is prepared by Krishna Catering and Restaurant. Music by DJ Rohit Goswamy and Planning + Coordination by Marigold Wedding Planners

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
The whole weekend lol

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.
Many of our friends and family were on college dance teams, so our sangeet was very exciting. The l dances showcased both of our unique cultures (Punjabi and Gujurati) as well as our talented friends who helped choreograph and dance the different routines.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Wedding planning can be very overwhelming and stressful, make sure you take time to enjoy the process. Try not save any big planning details until the end—3-4 weeks before the wedding is when you should start enjoying all the Pre-wedding excitement.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
I am still in love with my wedding set from paisley pop. I stacked two necklaces for a fuller look, and I’m happy I chose pieces I can re-wear in the future in different ways. It was also very special for me to be able to incorporate family heirlooms into the accessories I wore.

We opted not to have wedding cake, but a dessert table spread instead for more variety. We Ended up still cutting a cake, however, as it was my husband birthday!

The magical moments will remain etched in everyone’s hearts forever.

Marigold Wedding Planners is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

Marigold Wedding Planners VIEW PORTFOLIO

For more information on how Platinum Guide members are chosen, click here.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Mexico City, the majestic scene was set for a wedding that was nothing short of cinematic. Shivani & Neal, our stunning bride and groom, embarked on a journey of love and commitment, surrounded by the beauty and tradition of their Indian heritage, meshed with the vibrant culture of Mexico.

The festivities started with a colorful Sangeet at Hacienda Pedregal, where laughter and music danced through the air. This venue, known for its breathtaking architecture and lush surroundings, became a canvas for Shivani & Neal's pre-wedding celebration. The night was a spectacle of vibrant dances and heartfelt performances, setting the stage for the grandeur to follow.

The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, a name synonymous with luxury and elegance, hosted the ceremony and the reception. With its sumptuous décor and impeccable service, this iconic venue added unparalleled sophistication to the wedding. The Ritz-Carlton's grand ballroom, transformed by Flor y Flora into a scene from a royal palace, was the perfect backdrop for their vows. The reception was held at Ex Convento San Hipolito, a stunning 17th-century building with rich Spanish baroque architecture. The venue was transformed into a magical setting with super screens displaying beautiful landscapes of India and lush nature, seamlessly integrating technology with tradition. The effect was a breathtaking ambiance that transported guests to another world, celebrating both Indian and Mexican heritages.

The talented Akash Wadhwani captured every moment of Shivani & Neal's special day. His photography tells a story of emotion, celebration, and love, preserving memories that the couple will treasure for a lifetime. Akash's skill in capturing the essence of the wedding through his lens was a key component in bringing the day's story to life. The Mehndi, beautifully applied by Mehndi by Verónica, cascaded down her arms in elegant patterns, symbolizing love and joy. Complementing the elaborate Mehndi, Shivani's makeup, masterfully crafted by Martha Turrent, and hair by Kari Alba, enhanced her natural beauty while reflecting the grandeur of the occasion. 

Laurah Luna and her team at Indian Weddings Mexico City orchestrated the entire event. The wedding was a testament to her dedication and expertise in creating a seamless and spectacular celebration. Music and entertainment, crucial elements in any Indian wedding, were masterfully handled by DJ SNS, who blended Indian beats with local Mexican music, creating a festive atmosphere that kept the guests dancing all night. Including a Mexican mariachi band was a delightful surprise that added a unique twist to the traditional proceedings.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Neal tricked me into thinking we were heading to Chicago for a casual Friendsgiving, and I had no idea he was about to propose. Once we got to the hotel, there was a card on the bed telling me to pick a dress, get ready, and to not ask questions. He tasked my friend to buy six dress options for me and have them in the hotel room! We then went to a beautiful dinner, and he popped the question in the restaurant before the other diners arrived. After dinner, there was a surprise party with our closest friends and family!

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
We went to India to shop for our wedding outfits - we had several outfits to buy in only 4 days. We went to Ahmedabad, where Neal's sister lives. I had an inkling I wanted to have a green wedding lehenga but had not found a great option online. On our third day of shopping, we went to Shyamal & Bhumika, and when I laid eyes on their gorgeous green wedding lehenga, I absolutely knew I had to have it. I tried it on, and it was perfect! They were so great at customizing certain aspects of the lehenga, and it turned out absolutely beautiful.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
My favorite part was our trip to Mexico City! Our planning team, Indian Weddings Mexico City, took usa and our families under their wing during each trip and showed us the absolute best venues, caterers, and vendors. Not to mention we had the BEST food every time we went! It was a blast to show our families why we fell in love with Mexico City and watch them fall in love as well.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
I think our guests really enjoyed all of the thoughtful and personal touches we added to the weekend. For instance, we had small gifts and postcards with personal handwritten notes from us delivered to the guests' rooms during the reception so they had a fun surprise when they got back!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Walking in and seeing our sangeet venue for the first time - we were absolutely BLOWN away by how amazing the dance floor, hanging arrangements, table scapes, and all of the florals and decor looked!

Each moment beautifully showcased their unique love story against the backdrop of Mexico City.

The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City VIEW PORTFOLIO

For more information on how Platinum Guide members are chosen, click here.

Beneath the expansive skies of Phoenix, AZ, Shilpa & Shubham embarked on their forever journey with a ceremony mirrored the grandeur of a classic love story. Set against an enchanting backdrop, their wedding seamlessly intertwined age-old traditions with a dash of personal style, creating moments that seemed lifted from the pages of a romantic epic.

Before the grand revelry, the welcome party set the stage at the Ahwatukee Community, where friends and family mingled under the serene skies, hinting at the joy and elegance to come. Shilpa dazzled in a kaleidoscope of colors, each laugh and twirl a whisper of the morrow's promises.

As if stepping out of a fairy tale, the couple entered their reception venue, the Boojum Tree Hidden Gardens, where magical realms unfold amidst lush greenery and rustic charm. Here, Indian traditions found their splendid expression, with Shilpa in her stunning bridal attire that shimmered with intricate designs and Shubham, ever so dashing, in his designer ensemble that spoke volumes of grace.

Every emotion, from the whispers of first looks to the echoes of heartfelt vows, was immortalized by Santiago Almada Photography. His photographs are not just images but storied canvases that bring to life the laughter, the tears, and the dance moves that could rival any Bollywood spectacle. Each frame curated by Santiago is a portal to those cherished moments, reflecting a mastery that only a genuine passion for photography can achieve.

The magical setting was brought to life with the impeccable stylings of Crystal Palacio on hair and makeup, ensuring Shilpa looked the queen of the night every bit. Larisa Jackson's delectable cakes perfected the sweetness of the occasion, and Kalpana's Mehndi designs on Shilpa's hands told tales of their upcoming journey in their intricate patterns.

Here's to love – boundless and brilliantly captured. Cheers to Shilpa & Shubham, and cheers to the many hands that made their day possible. Follow us for more tales that weave love, culture, and artistry into the tapestry of weddings.

May their journey be filled with love, laughter, and countless shared adventures.

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

Santiago Almada Photography VIEW PORTFOLIO

For more information on how Platinum Guide members are chosen, click here.