We are thrilled to bring the marvelous final event of Rima and Akshar’s big Indian wedding at the elegant Sheraton Mahwah! The handsome New Jersey couple celebrated the last night of their wedding festivities surrounded by charm and a big touch of glam that Abhishek Decorators gave to the already elegant hall for the special occasion. A dramatic deep red floral wall was the perfect backdrop for Sharad Patel to photograph the couple wearing their elegant evening outfits. The stylish Raja Akshar in a white tuxedo jacket and Maharani Rima looking absolutely pretty in a black embroidered lehenga set and an ecstatic bridal makeup by Arfana Jasar made the pair glowed under the lights of Amplifire Entertainment!  The fountains of fireworks enlivened the amazing first dance and Amplifire Entertainment’s music kept everyone entertained all night with their amazing tunes. In the last hours of the reception, the newlyweds sliced a marvelous three-tier cake from A Little Cake that was shared as a sweet treat with all their the guests! See the most significant moments of today’s sweethearts in our full gallery!

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How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
It began back on December 22, 2011, in New Delhi, India at the Swaminarayan Akshardham Complex. Akshar had just landed the previous night, while Rima had been giving tours at Akshardham for a little over one week. While Rima was knowledgeable and enthusiastic as a guide, Akshar spoke less than 10 words in his almost unconscious state due to jet lag. After the brilliantly executed tour, they both went their separate ways not knowing their paths would cross once again. 
 
Fast forward to July 2013, a few days after the BAPS North American Youth Convention in Atlanta, Georgia. Akshar, more active on Instagram in the days of yesterday, received a notification that simply read: "Riima Patel (@qtrima4u) followed you." His immediate thoughts: why does this adult woman's username start with a "qt"? Akshar didn't think anything of it and proceeded with his life PR (Pre-Rima). After a few silent and uneventful days, Rima struck once again - this time by following him on Twitter. And while he did think she was becoming very creepy, he recognized her face a little more clearly in her profile picture. Akshar messaged her about the tour in New Delhi, and they hit it off almost immediately. 
 
After a year of back and forth, they definitely and mutually decided to start dating while being long-distance. Rima felt nothing but heart-melting joy during this moment. After all, he had courted her for a whole year! Over the next two years, they experienced a relationship that proved to be fate. They traveled together, Akshar talked into the early mornings while Rima listened, they single-handedly generated Apple's revenue from its revolutionary FaceTime feature, and of course, bonded over their shared love of cheese and cheese-smothered foods. 
 
In 2016, Akshar was lucky enough to receive a job offer that took him to New York. They were finally within the same tri-state area! That led to many many dates & hangouts, they fell deeper and deeper in love every day.
 
How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I wanted to do the Sabyasachi floral design so when I went to India I found my own designer in Baroda & got the exact dress made!
 
What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The little details such as program fans, popcorn on the seat, a homemade welcome sign, & more.
 
What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
The venue, Sheraton Mahwah is filled with mountains outdoors. 
 
Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
The first look.
 

Give shape to all your wedding ideas with our tomorrow’s creative wedding stories! See you ladies.

STYLE
GUIDE style
Ballroom
Sangeet
 season
Summer
 color
Floral & Decor: Abhishek Decorators | DJ: Amplifire Entertainment | Planning & Design: Pearls Event and Co. | Hair & Makeup: Arfana Jasar | DJ: Amplifire Entertainment | DJ: Amplifire Entertainment | DJ: Amplifire Entertainment | Sangeet Venue: Hindu Samaj of Mahwah | Ceremony & Reception Venue: Sheraton Mahwah | Catering: BAPS Cherry Hill | Cakes & Treats: A Little Cake | Cinematography: Nihar Makwana | Photography: Sharad Patel
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