The Platinum Guide Blog

If romance had a signature style, Chrissy and Chetan's wedding would embody effortless elegance, vibrant traditions, and modern charm. Their Indian wedding was nothing short of a masterpiece, where old-world grandeur met contemporary flair, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

Nestled in the heart of St. Petersburg, The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection was the crown jewel of Chrissy & Chetan's wedding celebration. With its historic architecture, lush gardens, and waterfront views, it set the stage for a love story that deserved nothing but the best. Whether it was the dreamy mandap framed by tropical greenery or the grand ballroom drenched in candlelight, every moment at The Vinoy felt like a scene straight out of a royal wedding fantasy.

Chrissy, dazzling in an intricately designed lehenga, and Chetan, looking every bit the regal groom, began their celebrations with a mehndi night filled with laughter, dance, and vibrant henna artistry by Henna Allure. The festivities escalated as Empire Entertainment took over the Sangeet, ensuring no guest remained seated too long! On the wedding day, the magic truly unfolded. The Baraat, led by Cypress Breeze Farm, was a procession of pure energy and joy—where Chetan, surrounded by his hyped-up crew, danced his way to the mandap. And let's say this groom had some serious moves!

Guided by Priest Padmakar Gangatirkar, the ceremony beautifully blended heartfelt traditions and meaningful moments. Apsara Events meticulously planned and orchestrated every detail, ensuring a seamless and enchanting experience. Chrissy's bridal draping, perfected by Saree Stylist Ruchi, was a vision of elegance as she walked down the aisle to her forever. The mandap, adorned with breathtaking floral artistry by Partyland Sajawat, was a picture of divine beauty, enhancing the sacred rituals that united this couple in matrimony.

A wedding isn't complete without something sweet, and Cake Affection delivers with a stunning cupcake display that has guests sneaking in second (and third) servings! Anastasiia Photography beautifully captured every magical moment of the celebration, ensuring that the joy, laughter, and elegance of Chrissy & Chetan's big day will be cherished forever.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
We are both vascular surgeons and we met in residency. Our residency program accepts two applicants per year and we happened to be the two that were accepted. We initially became best friends and eventually fell in love.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
He proposed while we were on vacation in Banff. We went on a sunset hike around this beautiful lake called Peyto Lake. He hired a secret photographer to capture the moment. It was perfect because we both really enjoy hiking so it was very fitting that he proposed while we were hiking on a mountain together.

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 got married at the Vinoy Resort and it was an amazing experience. The staff was extremely hospitable and easy to work with. They went above and beyond and kept the bar open for two extra hours at no charge as they could see our guests were having such a good time.

I absolutely loooovvved my hair and makeup company. The owners name is Caroline Minerva and she was incredible! I recommend her to everyone I meet. She made me feel extremely comfortable with the whole process. We had an Indian wedding and I’m not Indian, so the entire process was very new and sometimes overwhelming to me. Caroline exposed me to some more non traditional hair and makeup styles which were more my style. I really prefer a more natural makeup look and she spent the extra time to ensure I was happy. Before every event she would ask me what I wanted changed before we finished and didn’t make me feel bad or uncomfortable for critiquing her work. She is amazing and I recommend her to everyone I meet.

Our photographer Anastasiia is also a close friend of ours. She has such a gift for capturing those special moments and using her artistic abilities to showcase your special day. She has done so many of our good friends weddings because she’s just so talented. Were all just ordinary people who don’t know the first thing about photography, yet somehow she captures the most beautiful qualities of her clients and everyone ends up looking like gorgeous models.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
My husbands cousin owns an Indian clothing boutique based out of Chicago and she helped me pick out all of my outfits. She would send me ideas until I found something that I loved. The best part of it all is that we did this remotely. Her clothing is made in India but we decided on all the options virtually. My husband and I are both surgeons so and very busy, so it would have been difficult to take time off to travel directly to India for lengha shopping, but she made things incredibly easy for us. All of the embroidery from the outfits is handmade and it’s absolutely stunning.

For my wedding gown, I made several alterations through an extremely gifted seamstress based out of Tampa to make modifications. She was wonderful to work with and very talented.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The food!! Going around to several different local Indian restaurants for tastings was the absolute best part, and for obvious reasons - Indian food is delicious!

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
The general atmosphere from both our families and friends of just overwhelming love and happiness. Everyone said they could feel it during our events. Chetan and I, and our families and friends were all just so genuinely happy to be getting married and it was apparent to the guests and really set the tone for the weekend to be focused on love and happiness.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Our first look. Our wedding day started extremely early around 5am with hair and makeup. After hours of being separated while getting ready, the Sehra Bandi, the baraat, etc, I was just so so happy to be reunited with my best friend during the first look. Seeing each other after being apart all morning, and really having that one moment to ourselves, was extremely special.

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.
We had a fusion wedding (since I’m not Indian) and I really appreciated our planner and decorator during this process. They both helped me make small adjustments to the more traditional Indian decor to customize the events towards my style, without compromising on the traditional aspects that were important to our parents.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Be patient. The planning process is overwhelming. Choose a planner who you’re comfortable will help you showcase your own style while not compromising on what’s important to your parents.

Maharanis, here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happily ever after for Chrissy & Chetan!

The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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If fairy tales were written in the language of vibrant lehengas, heartwarming traditions, and a dance floor that saw more energy than a Bollywood blockbuster, Prita & Vishal's wedding would be the ultimate best-seller. Hosted in the heart of Orlando, FL, this multi-day Indian celebration blended regal elegance with the warmth of cherished traditions, all set against the opulent backdrop of The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. With its sprawling estate, lush green landscapes, and impeccable service, this venue perfectly blended luxury and cultural grandeur. Every corner of the Ritz was transformed into a breathtaking scene, from the ethereal outdoor ceremony setup to the grand ballroom reception, proving once again why it remains a top choice for couples seeking an unparalleled wedding experience.

A wedding like this deserved to be immortalized in every dazzling frame, and Love Like Wild LLC did just that. From Prita's breathtaking bridal portraits to the groom's grand baraat entrance (cue the dhols and the ultimate hype squad), each image is a testament to the day's magic. Their lens didn't just capture moments; it bottled emotions, energy, and the love that radiated from every corner of the celebration.

The wedding was flawlessly orchestrated by Rae Nicole Events, ensuring every detail, from the floral archways to the luxurious seating, reflected the couple's vision. Every guest left with their hearts full, their feet sore from dancing, and their camera rolls flooded with snapshots of the most unforgettable wedding weekend.

Before their grand Hindu wedding, Prita & Vishal honored their roots with a traditional Sikh ceremony at the Sikh Society of Central Florida. This intimate yet deeply spiritual affair left everyone in awe. And because one magical venue wasn't enough, the couple's wedding soiree took place at the stunning Shah Residence, where the golden glow of candlelight, the richness of red and gold florals, and a glamorous stage created a scene straight out of a royal celebration.

Prita's bridal look was nothing short of spectacular. Adorned in an exquisitely embroidered lehenga, she looked like she had walked straight out of a Sabyasachi campaign. Her A Touch of Fierce glam squad ensured her hair, makeup, and bridal glow were nothing less than perfection. And let's not forget the artistry of Amrita Henna, who adorned Prita's hands with intricate mehndi designs that told their love story in swirls and paisleys.

If anyone knows how to make an entrance, it's Vishal. Rolling up with his energetic baraat led by Awaaz Entertainment, the groom smiled (and made a few dance moves) as he made his way to his bride. The night continued with an epic reception with jaw-dropping décor by Simply the Best Creations, a dreamy sweetheart stage, and a candlelit ambiance that exuded pure romance. The dance floor? It was electric. And when Vishal twirled Prita in her dazzling gold reception ensemble, it was a moment straight out of a Bollywood climax.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
I was at his house one day and randomly stumbled upon a book he had called "Loving Someone with Anxiety" and immediately started to cry. I do struggle with anxiety and the fact that someone was willing to love me and accept my anxiety and figure out how to be better for me truly touched my heart. I was very used to hearing that my anxiety was something I had to fix and 'get rid of' so the fact that he truly loved me - for me - was amazing!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
He did a great job with the proposal. I own a condo on a beautiful lake. That lake is my favorite place in the world and it has a peaceful dock. At the time of the proposal, I had rented it out. Vish somehow got a hold of the tenant and convinced him to lie to me, sending me a text that a break-in had occurred at the condo. We were on our way to dinner to meet friends, so we had to make a u-turn and go to the condo. Once at the condo, I couldn't find the tenant. Everything outside the condo looked fine and normal. I got very worried the robber had kidnapped my tenant and was holding him hostage in my condo. As my freakout worsened, Vish told me to calm down, and that we should go to the lake and wait for the police there. Calm down is the worst thing you can say to someone who's freaking out! So I decided to try to open the door and that's when he pulled me back and said that today was not the day I would be superwoman, that this was way too dangerous and we needed to back off. He literally dragged me to the lake while I screamed and cursed him out. I couldn't understand how he didn't think this was a serious situation! Internally, I started doubting how I could love such an insensitive person. I must have figured everything wrong about him! As we got to the dock, I noticed a bouquet of flowers on the bench and then I realized what was about to happen. Vish had to set up this wild story because he knew there was no way he'd be able to get me to my favorite place in the world without me suspecting anything. He got down on one knee while a photographer hid in a nearby boat and captured the moment. It was incredibly sweet and romantic! He then took me to dinner, where we were supposed to meet our friend and when we got there, I saw that all my friends and family were there, waiting to celebrate 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.
It was a dream come true wedding at our local Gurdwara for the Sikh Ceremony, at our family's house for the Mehndi night and at the Ritz for the Hindu Ceremony and dinner reception. It was a perfect mix of a local home vibe mixed with an out of this world romantic glamour vibe.

The customer service at the Ritz was above and beyond. Chef Jayshree has her own signature Indian fusion dishes, and she's based locally in Orlando. She caters to all the Indian weddings at Ritz hotels across the country, and we were so lucky to have her do our reception food. It was delicious and a nice break from all the other Indian food we'd been eating at all the other events - while also still being Indian enough for those who love their traditional Indian meals! The atmosphere at the Ritz was also incredible. It was impeccable!

My hair and makeup team were the dream team, and were able to change over my looks, from top to bottom, with just 30 minutes to do so between looks. They were able to incorporate my vision while also gently encouraging me to take some risks that made my looks completely unique. My Sikh ceremony look was traditional, while for Mehndi night they turned me into a modern Barbie doll! My Hindu ceremony look was epic, they turned me into a royal queen, and for my reception look, turned down the drama into a soft and romantic gold shimmery Belle look. I didn't have to ask to change anything; all my hair and makeup lasted throughout every event, and the best part was that I still looked like me at the end of the day!

My photographer was incredible and was always there for me. Anytime I needed them for a photo, they were there. They understood my vision and went above and beyond to make sure they captured the shots I wanted. They had snacks on hand in case we needed anything as well and also handled our guests with such grace. I'll never forget how at the Gurdwara, all I wanted was a break. Our photographer pulled us away from our guests, tucked us into a study room, gave us water, and had us stay there for 5 minutes so we could get a breather - all while telling our guests we would be right back. I didn't have to ask for this, they could just tell and simply knew. They really went above and beyond to make sure we had a super special day and that they captured that day too.

Our theme was England Garden, and everything was very beautiful and natural with a lot of browns, greens and red-red roses. It wasn't a big over the top wedding, it was intimate and romantic. The one thing we wanted every guest to feel was loved, and I really think that's what was experienced.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I really like traditions. I love celebrating them and creating my own! We had a Sikh ceremony at the Gurdwara, and I wore bright red. For the Mehndi, I wanted to go completely against tradition and wore white with pastels and mirrors. The Hindu ceremony outfit was my favorite and was a deeper red and green. To change things up, I did two dupattas, with a green one on my head. I love how that look turned out. It was a great mix of traditional and modern. For reception, I was all gold! I had a lot of fun with my hair and makeup team changing up the looks to match each outfit. For the Hindu ceremony, my makeup artist wanted my look to be a bit more edgy, and she used dark green eyeliner in my waterline. I like taking fun risks like that. I think everything turned out beautifully!

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Doing it with my husband by my side. We were both equally involved, and I felt so grateful for his support! This truly was both of our weddings :)

Oh - and the food tasting was awesome! The team at the Ritz really made sure we enjoyed everything and left with very full bellies! As we left, I took a deep breath, taking in the incredible scent they had flowing through the Ritz. I said, "I wish my house smelled like this." Moments later, their event coordinator came out with gift bags for me, my mom, and my mother-in-law. We all got candles of the Ritz scent so we could burn them at home! They made us feel so special!

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Everyone knows that the only thing guests care about is food, booze, and music, haha! I will say though that our guests also had a great time. Everything was very well planned and we got a lot of compliments on the timelines of each event (it wasn't Indian Standard) as well as how little time was wasted. There were a lot of breaks and time for people to chill out and relax between events. The mandate photos went smoothly, and we captured everyone in under 30 minutes! Our wedding planner did a great job planning each second out!

I think the guests could tell how much my husband and I loved each other during the events as well. Our love for each other came out in different ways - from the wedding and reception entrances to the speeches. The speeches were so heartfelt, even I was moved to tears. I also wrote a song for my husband and sang it for him at the reception. That was his and everyone else's first time hearing it, so that was very special.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
We aren't dancers, so every time we practiced our first dance, we were making mistakes. It got to a point where we said it was ok if we made a mistake during the actual performance because we just couldn't manage to nail it. When it was showtime, somehow, we actually did the whole dance without any mistakes! We just looked at each other in disbelief and felt so accomplished at the end of the performance! It was like we had just won a gold medal together! Best moment ever!

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 friends and family put together a great 5-minute Punjabi/Gujarati dance mashup. The best part was the end when everyone joined flashmob style! It was great to see my coworkers absolutely killing it on the dancefloor and dancing to Bollywood!

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
You have to really tune out the outside voices and do what is best for you. You're never going to make everyone happy, and someone will always feel left out, someone will always find the food too cold or spicy and someone will always think you did something wrong and now your marriage will be cursed.

Everything happens very fast, so make sure you take moments to enjoy your partner and plan in moments to have some time just the two of you. Remember - this is just one day. Don't sweat the small stuff and put all that energy into your relationship and make sure it is healthy and nourishing. That is much more important than any wedding detail.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
My husband is Hindu and I am Sikh. A special memory that comes to my mind is how all the men in his family got their Pugries tied for our Sikh Ceremony. I felt so loved and appreciated that I wanted to celebrate our customs with us and didn't shy away from it. Also, Vishal's cousin Ami did something very special for me. My Naniji is 90 years old and is bedridden. She couldn't attend any of the festivities. When we were doing Mehndi at home for the family, Ami took one of the cones and put mehndi on my Naniji's hands so that she could also be a part of the wedding celebrations. It really moved my heart that his family did all this for me and my family. I felt so loved!

This was more than a wedding—it was a royal celebration to remember.

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes and Love Like Wild LLC are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Every wedding has its charm, but some are so full of love, joy, and grandeur that they become unforgettable—Trisha & Karthik's was the latter. Their Hindu wedding in Garfield was an extraordinary fusion of tradition, elegance, and pure joy, leaving guests mesmerized and Instagram feeds flooded with snapshots of the magic. From Trisha's intricate Mehndi to the couple's picture-perfect moments, their journey to "I do" was straight out of a dream, with just the right dash of rom-com charm!

If ever a love story was captured in its most actual essence, Surya Garigipati Photography & Films LLC did just that. Every frame, every stolen glance, and every burst of laughter felt like a page out of a storybook. Their lens caught it all—from Trisha's intricate Mehndi featuring the Chicago skyline (because home is where the heart is!) to Karthik's teary-eyed reaction during the first look. If pictures could talk, these would sing love songs in full surround sound.

Trisha & Karthik's nuptials unfolded like a dream at The Venetian, where their Hindu ceremony was a mesmerizing blend of tradition and elegance. Think golden mandaps, fragrant jasmine, and a radiant love that could outshine any chandelier. The reception at Razberrys took things up a notch, transforming the space into a red-and-gold wonderland with a royal ball's grandeur (except this time, the prince and princess get to party till dawn!). Planning a wedding of this scale is not for the faint of heart, but Weldone Events pulled it off with finesse. Every detail—from the perfectly timed entrances to the seamless flow between rituals—was perfectly curated. If there were a gold medal for wedding planning, they'd take home first place and a standing ovation.

The jaw-dropping floral artistry by Wedding Design and Decor was a fairytale. Picture a floral explosion of roses, peonies, and cascading wisteria that created a backdrop so breathtaking that even Mother Nature would be jealous. And let's talk about Trisha's bridal glow! The magic touch of Karishma Arora had her radiating like a goddess, with hair and makeup that held up through laughter, happy tears, and a whole lot of dancing.

What's an Indian wedding without a feast? Moghul Caterers delivered a mouthwatering spread that made guests take notes on their following meal plans. And when it was time to hit the dance floor, DJ Amit Kapoor turned the reception into an all-out concert. Add in Mani Choreographer's Bollywood magic, and we had a dance floor filled with synchronized moves, epic twirls, and a few relatives who may or may not have improvised their signature steps! No wedding is complete without something sweet, and Cake Some ensured that Trisha & Karthik's cake was as delightful as their love story. 

The adventure of their life together as a married couple is just starting, and it’s bound to be magical.

Surya Garigipati Photography & Films LLC is a member of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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

Some love stories start with a grand romantic gesture, but Megan & Raj’s began with a simple Facebook message—one that would unknowingly change their lives forever. Suggested by mutual friends as a perfect match, their instant connection sparked a love story that led to a stunning, joy-filled wedding in Dearborn.

From the moment guests stepped into The Henry Hotel, they were transported into a world of elegance, tradition, and a touch of Bollywood magic. Marigold Wedding Planners outdid themselves, crafting a breathtaking ambiance filled with soft golden hues, regal floral arrangements, and intricate décor that made the entire setting look like a scene from a royal Indian wedding.

No South Asian wedding is complete without a stunning mehndi design, and Radhe Henna delivered intricate, story-telling artwork on Megan’s hands that was nothing short of mesmerizing. The celebrations began with an intimate Haldi, followed by a high-energy Mehndi night filled with games, fireworks, and a grand welcome banner for Raj’s family (because this wedding was all about the details!). Let’s talk about Megan’s glam! Thanks to the dream team of Amanie Mokdad and Hair By Rochelle J, she looked effortlessly radiant from the first event to the last. It was all about that perfect blend of tradition and modern bridal beauty.

Speaking of firsts, Megan & Raj’s First Look was one for the books. As Megan approached Raj, the anticipation was palpable. With a gentle tap on his shoulder, he turned around, and their jaws dropped in perfect sync. Killer Creations Photography & Cinematography didn’t just capture this moment; they transformed it into a cinematic masterpiece. Their keen eye for emotion, impeccable lighting, and artistic composition turned a magical second into a frame-worthy memory.

For their grand finale, Megan & Raj opted for an elegant reception with gold and white décor, creating an atmosphere of timeless sophistication. The night was filled with heartfelt toasts that had everyone reaching for tissues (both from laughter and happy tears) while DJ Genesis kept the dance floor packed with an epic Bollywood-American fusion mix.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
Our story began in 2016 when Raj sent me a Facebook message out of the blue as many mutual friends had suggested to him that we'd be compatible -- it didn't take long for sparks to fly.

From the first date, I felt I could be completely myself around Raj. He inspired me to be my best, and we discovered a deep compatibility, tackling everything from the mundane to the momentous with ease. Most importantly, Raj immediately appreciated and reciprocated my off-beat wit and playful sarcasm – a clear tell to me that he was "the one".

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
During the Holidays in our sixth year, I came home planning to attend Raj's company Christmas party...or so I thought!

Raj took me to the same spot where we had our first Valentine's day, and decorated the hall with the help of our family and friends. When we first walked in, I thought we were intruding on someone else's proposal -- little did I know!

With our favorite song playing in the background, Raj got down on one knee to propose to my surprise -- Afterwards, we had an unforgettable night celebrating with our close family and friends!

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.
When we began planning our wedding, our top priority was creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for our guests while still bringing our dream wedding to life. Knowing how overwhelming wedding planning can be, we took it one step at a time, breaking down the process into manageable pieces. Things fell into place beautifully from there.

We started with the venue and were lucky enough to find one that perfectly balanced our needs with the elegant atmosphere we envisioned. Next, we hired a wedding planner whose expert guidance proved invaluable. She connected us with a fantastic team of vendors, including a hair and makeup artist, caterer, DJ, photographer/videographer, and of course, a talented decor specialist.

Choosing my bridal outfit in Toronto with my family was a truly emotional moment. It was then that it really hit me – this was actually happening!

For the decor, I had always envisioned a simple yet elegant, almost regal, theme. My planner perfectly captured this vision and offered wonderful recommendations to bring it to fruition.

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
At first, I envisioned a traditional maroon velvet lehenga for my wedding. However, when I found my ultimate outfit, all my preconceived notions vanished. Even though it was different from what I had imagined, it felt absolutely perfect. Wearing it, I felt like royalty -- In that moment, I knew my bridal outfit was decided.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
The most enjoyable part of planning our wedding was the way it brought our families together. It truly takes a village to pull off a wedding, and we all had the same goal. Working together, we were challenged to have meaningful and honest conversations, which helped break down barriers and formalities, ultimately uniting us as one family.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
Since our wedding, we've been so touched by the feedback from our guests. They especially loved the vibrant and warm atmosphere at every event, from the Mehndi to the Reception. We made it a point to keep the energy high and smiles on our faces, hoping that positive vibes were contagious and that our guests felt it, too.

We've also received rave reviews about the food. Even though we primarily served Indian dishes throughout our various events, our caterer did an incredible job of adding unique touches to each meal, keeping everything fresh and exciting!

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
The special moment that replays in my mind is the First Look before our wedding. After getting ready for the ceremony, our photographer escorted me into into a private area where Raj was standing with his back turned -- from there, I tapped Raj on his shoulder, and with his back to me he slowly turned around and we had the same exact reaction, of pure excitement and jaws dropped --this has easily become my favorite picture from the wedding.

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 wedding celebrations began with an intimate Haldi ceremony with close family and friends. This was followed by a vibrant and eventful Mehndi party at my family's home, officially kicking off the wedding weekend. Raj and I had a joint Mehndi, a wonderful opportunity to welcome our families and informally introduce them to each other. We played games to engage all our guests and exchanged gifts. My parents worked tirelessly to transform our home into the perfect event space, adorning it with colorful, fresh flowers to welcome everyone. We also had fireworks and a large welcome banner for Raj's family.

The Sangeet was all about vibrant color and high energy, creating a festive and celebratory atmosphere. we even incorporated custom-made Bollywood posters, replacing the actors with our our faces, like "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai." We had live food stations serving Indian street food, and a jam-packed program filled with dances from our loved ones, including a surprise performance from Raj and me.

For our reception, we chose a more sophisticated theme using neutral colors like gold and white. Heartfelt toasts from our best friends and moving speeches from our parents brought both tears of joy and laughter to our eyes. Finally, our DJ took over, and with an incredible Bollywood-American fusion mix, keeping everyone on the dance floor all night.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
While wedding planning can be challenging and demanding, it's important to take it one step at a time. This is a unique opportunity to create a truly special event, bringing together all the most important people in your lives. Prioritize what YOU want out of the experience and try to enjoy the process.

It's also essential to find a team that shares your vision and values. I was fortunate to have a strong support system to step in when needed and vendors who expertly guided me through navigated uncharted waters.

Anything else you want to tell us? We'd love to hear all about your other details! (jewelry, mehndi, venue, cake, bouquets, etc.)
Early in the planning process, I sometimes questioned the value of hiring a wedding planner. Now, having gone through the experience, I can confidently say it's absolutely worth it. Especially when you're overwhelmed with the details, like timelines and itineraries, or even need expert advice on things like hair and makeup (which, as a first-time bride, I definitely did!), a good planner is invaluable.

Their path led to a breathtaking wedding celebration where every detail reflected their unique story.

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

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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.

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