Amazing features keep on coming, Maharanis, and we want to inspire you through them. Today, we have a couple that needs no introduction. They come from Ontario, Canada, and let me tell you, they are as romantic as they can be. Afshan & Anthony's grand celebration comes to us thanks to ABCi Studios. Talented fellows that stored for the ages, the glitter and romance that went on at the various rituals and the main ceremony at the Grand Empire Banquet Hall. Celebrations began early for our dazzling bride. The Haldi ceremony saw our Maharani wear a beautiful marigold dress that absolutely matched with the turmeric paste of her skin. She was looking gorgeous, even with the yellow paste on! After that, the always fun Sangeet was to dream for. The bride wore a deep blue lengha with violet details that matched with Raja Anthony's attire. They were looking so elegant! The clock was ticking and the moment was getting closer and closer. I even feel nervous just to think about what was going on in their heads prior to such a remarkable moment. Like a true Maharani, our bride kept it together and walked into their Christian ceremony looking like an absolute princess. Wearing this long white gown that pretty much mesmerized the nervous groom. She was escorted by the beautiful bridesmaids who lent themselves to be the muses of Azazie Bridesmaid Dresses. A true knockout of an entrance indeed! We know you want to see more, but for now, get that inspiration going with part one of what was Afshan & Anthony's dreamed Indian wedding, here, in our featured gallery of today.
![]()
How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
He was the boy that sat behind me in chemistry class, my high school sweetheart. We started dating in grade 12 and it just felt right. It's hard to explain because we are the complete opposite in every respect but I guess opposites really attracted here. I don't think there was a specific moment when I realized that he was the one but somewhere along our endless conversations the "ifs" turned into "when" we get married. I guess you could say we had chemistry!! lol
How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I actually went to Pakistan to shop for my red lengha however it wasn't a great experience. I was promised the world with the lengha but what came through was not what I signed up for. I left the lengha and thought to go to another store when my sister talked me out of it. She and I both knew my taste was Indian and that I was going to keep wasting money here. When I came back to Canada we went to a bunch of stores in Brampton. My top three were Well Groomed, Sunita Collection and Shahibafashion. In the end, I fell in love with my maroon velvet lengha from Well Groomed. I saw one at Sunita Collection that I really wanted to love as much as the one from Well Groomed because it was literally half the price but I was done compromising at that point and followed my heart. Thank God I did because I have no regrets what so ever with my lengha. I truly felt like royalty in it.
What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
I was having such a hard time finding photographers and cinematographers that were amazing at their jobs and budget friendly. Then a friend recommended ABCi studios and from the day I met Zak I was sold. That was probably the easiest and most enjoyable decision I made. They were actually way over my budget but they were worth EVERY PENNY. I had to give up my vinyl dance floor and so many other things to be able to hire them but I can honestly say that out of everything we had to pay for, they were the best choice we made. Shafiq and Yousif are such amazing personalities and are so calming to work with and their work is breathtaking. If you haven't already please check out their Instagram page or go visit them!
What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Aside from the open bar? Haha! Honestly, people loved that they were entertained the whole time. We had dances, speeches -that were short and to the point, we had a game and obviously they loved the amazing food. Oh and we also had a poutine station at midnight but I don't think people left the dance floor haha.
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.
Negative- My decor was not at all what I had asked for and agreed to. When I walked in I was shocked at what my backdrop looked like. When I called the company the owner made excuses and was busy decorating for another event. It was an absolute horribly moment. Looking back at it I had red flags about the company but they were giving me the best price so I gave in. I'm not saying the cheaper vendors are not good- most of the time they are great however be very careful. I wish I could turn back time and hire someone else. It would have cost me more but at least I wouldn't have been so upset right before the start of my reception.
I was so fortunate that my D.J and photographers came up with a plan with my A.V technician and moved half the spotlights to the stage so it didn't look so dark. Remember ladies, your backdrop is going to show up in all your pictures so if you need to cut corners then cut the centerpieces.
-------
In terms of the style: Go for what you want. If people give their opinions take them into consideration but don't feel like you have to include their suggestions. They will have their turn to do it their way but don't agree to something because you don't want to hurt someone's feelings.
-------
Dances- I was fortunate enough to have my sisters handle all the dances. Delegating is a great idea! Don't try to do everything by yourself.
-------
Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Wedding planning was probably the most stressful 8 months of my life. It's not just about you and your fiance as much as people want you to believe that. A marriage is between the two of you but the wedding is the chance for two families to come together which means that there will be lots of back and forth, lots of drama but also an amazing party at the end. To the future brides, I would say: Don't compromise on your outfits, photography, hair, and makeup. You can compromise on everything else but don't cheap out on these four, you probably will regret it. Lastly, remember that going through a roller coaster of emotions is normal and if you get too overwhelmed do something else. Take your mind off or take a break. It makes for a happier bride which makes for happy families and friends.
Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
I did A LOT of D.I.Y. My bouquet was DIY, the personalized hangers and boxes, my welcome sign etc. Don't be afraid to DIY but just be careful to plan it out and not take on too much.
Stay with us for the second installment of this beautiful bash!
No comments yet.
Please, sign in to leave a comment.