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.