The Platinum Guide Blog

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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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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There are weddings, and then there's Amy & JD's wedding—a breathtaking blend of tradition, modern elegance, and pure joy. Hosted in the vibrant city of Tampa, FL, this South Asian wedding was nothing short of a grand Bollywood spectacle, with every detail designed to dazzle.

Regarding capturing love in its purest form, Andrew Do Photography was nothing less than magical. Every frame tells a story, from the intimate stolen glances to the wild dance floor moments with guests partying like there was no tomorrow. Andrew's ability to balance vibrant tradition with contemporary elegance made each shot a timeless piece of art—scroll through the photos, and you'll feel like you were right there!

Amy was a vision in her bridal ensemble—graceful, radiant, and owning that red lengha moment. JD, not to be outdone, rocked his traditional sherwani with the kind of swag only a groom in love can carry. Together, they were the picture of elegance, proving that love (and great fashion sense) is all you need! Beauty Marked worked their magic to complete her bridal glow, ensuring Amy looked flawless from ceremony to reception. The perfect makeup and hair styling enhanced her natural beauty and complemented her stunning attire seamlessly.

Turning a vision into reality is no small feat, but In Style Events took the challenge head-on, crafting an affair that was equal parts regal and relaxed. With the stunning Tampa Garden Club as the ceremony venue, lush floral arrangements from Royal Events & Services, and jaw-dropping decor that blended classic Indian aesthetics with modern finesse, the ambiance was a total showstopper. Think twinkling fairy lights, rich jewel tones, and an aisle straight out of Maharani's dream. Once the vows were exchanged, it was time to turn up the volume—and oh, did they! With an impeccable setup from On the Move Productions, the reception was transformed into a glamorous wonderland.

As JD made his grand baraat entrance, the energy was electric. Decked out in white and gold, he danced into the crowd's hearts while DJ Raman Singh kept the beats pumping. Amy's entrance was nothing short of cinematic—every eye was on her as she walked down the aisle, the sun catching the intricate embroidery of her outfit just right. It was the kind of moment that gave you goosebumps!

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
JD proposed in St. Augustine, which was really special because that was where we went on our first trip together as a couple. During that first trip, we had planned to visit the fort but never actually made it inside. Instead, we ended up sitting on a wall overlooking the water, and that’s where JD told me he loved me for the first time.

Almost two years later, he suggested we go back for a weekend trip. I had a feeling a proposal might be coming, but I wasn’t entirely sure. This time, we finally explored the fort, walking through and taking everything in. Afterward, we made our way back to that same spot by the water. And that’s where he got down on one knee. It was such a full-circle moment!

How did you select your bridal lengha or wedding dress? Did you have a favorite color in mind?
I actually came across my bridal lehenga designer, Label Neha Sinha, on Instagram a few years ago (@labelnehasinha). I followed her work for a while and loved seeing her grow, so when it was finally time to pick my lehenga, I reached out to her.

I did try on a few lehengas at two different stores in New York, but none of them gave me that “Say Yes to the Dress” moment. So, I went back to Neha, and we started working together to bring my dream lehenga to life. I always knew I wanted to wear red, and she helped bring that vision to life. She involved me in every step—starting with sketches, then the sample kali, and finally the full piece. She also designed JD's sherwani and even incorporated embroidery from my lehenga into his outfit, which made it feel even more special.

When my lehenga finally arrived, I tried it on and just knew. The craftsmanship, the fit—everything was perfect, and I finally had my moment. I’m usually the kind of person who has to try things on a million times before deciding, but this was the one time I fully trusted the process. And I’m so glad I did!

I did try on a few lehengas at two different stores in New York, but none of them gave me that “Say Yes to the Dress” moment. So, I went back to Neha, and we started working together to bring my dream lehenga to life. I always knew I wanted to wear red, and she helped bring that vision to life. She involved me in every step—starting with sketches, then the sample kali, and finally the full piece. She also designed my husband’s sherwani and even incorporated embroidery from my lehenga into his outfit, which made it feel even more special.

When my lehenga finally arrived, I tried it on and just knew. The craftsmanship, the fit—everything was perfect, and I finally had my moment. I’m usually the kind of person who has to try things on a million times before deciding, but this was the one time I fully trusted the process. And I’m so glad I did!

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
While the planning process was definitely a lot of work, the most rewarding part was that JD was just as involved as I was. It truly was a 50-50 effort and having him by my side made everything more manageable and enjoyable. We got to make decisions together and share in the excitement, which made the whole experience feel more special.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
My biggest piece of advice would be to remember that, at the end of the day, it's about celebrating your love and the people you care about. The little details might feel huge in the moment, but try not to stress too much over things that won't necessarily be noticed. And most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the process—you’ll look back on it as a special time, so make sure to savor it with the people you love.

Maharanis, their big day was filled with vibrant energy, stunning decor, and joyful moments. Enjoy!

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Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Moon Palace The Grand in Cancun, Niyati and Rachit's wedding was nothing short of a fairytale brought to life. They complemented the evening, offering a stunning setting and indulgent culinary delights that had guests whispering about coming back just for the experience. This Indian wedding wasn't just an event—it was an experience filled with love, color, and a touch of tropical elegance. Here's a glimpse into their unforgettable celebration that left everyone in awe.

From the vibrant Mehndi celebration to the ethereal beachside ceremony, every moment of Niyati & Rachit's wedding was a masterclass in blending tradition with destination magic. The stunning floral installations by Evoke (Palace Resorts) and Grupo Gama transformed the venues into dreamlike settings. At the same time, Styling Trio ensured the bride radiated elegance with their impeccable hair and makeup artistry. But the couple's electrifying first dance at the reception, with sparklers lighting up the night, truly stole the show—a moment etched in the hearts of all attendees.

No grand celebration happens without a dream team, and Niyati & Rachit's was exceptional. Dream Shaadi's expert planning and design ensured every detail was executed flawlessly, leaving the couple and their guests free to revel in the joy of the moment. Special recognition goes to Indian Destination Wedding, whose travel concierge services made the logistics seamless for everyone attending from afar. Their dedication to creating a hassle-free experience allowed family and friends to focus on the festivities rather than the flights.

Let's not forget the visual storytellers who captured every magical moment—Saptapadi Weddings. Their expertise in photography and cinematography preserved every glance, smile, and tear, ensuring these memories will be cherished for generations to come. Loto Mehndi's intricate designs adorned Niyati's hands, telling the story of love in a way only henna can. The Mehndi event was lively, bursting with laughter, music, and pops of vibrant color.

Here's to a lifetime of love, laughter, and spontaneous dance-offs under the stars!

Indian Destination Wedding and Saptapadi Weddings are members of the Platinum Guide. Love what you see? Explore their portfolios.

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Amidst the stunning beauty of Riviera Maya, where crystal-clear waters meet soft, golden sands, Krina and Jon celebrated their love in a magical wedding. Hosted at the picturesque Generations Resorts and El Dorado Resorts, their Indian wedding seamlessly intertwined timeless traditions with contemporary elegance, crafting unforgettable moments that perfectly reflected their one-of-a-kind love story.

Krina, a spirited Gujarati woman, and Jon, a calm Taiwanese Michigander, met on a frosty January day at a medical school interview. Krina recalls spotting Jon sitting quietly and thinking she'd shine next to him (classic confidence!). Little did she know, this quiet man would one day promise her parents to keep her happy forever. Jon's sweet proposal at Torrey Pines, complete with her favorite snacks and a sweeping ocean view, sealed their forever—a love story as sweet as a charcuterie board. From a traditional Gujarati shrikhand to Indo-Chinese delicacies, the couple poured their love for food into a menu that delighted their guests. And the nerdy cocktails? Iconic! "Code Blue" and "Pink Eye" added a humorous nod to their medical professions—Krina, a cardiologist thriving in the ICU chaos, and Jon, an ophthalmologist enjoying clinic calm.

Jhankarlo Photography brought this wedding to life with a masterful eye for detail and storytelling. Every angle felt intentional, capturing the intricate embroidery of Krina's exquisite bridal lehenga and the vibrant energy of the baraat as it danced across the sandy shores. The photos reflect a cinematic charm, especially during the first look—where Krina, glowing under the Riviera sun, approaches Jon with a palpable emotional depth through the lens. From sweeping wide shots showcasing Etirios Floral Atelier's stunning decor to intimate close-ups that revealed the couple's raw emotions, every frame told a story of love, tradition, and joy in breathtaking style.

The planning and design for Krina & Jon's wedding were exceptional, thanks to the talented collaboration of Beloved Planners, Jennyfer Reyes Wedding, and Lilly Cruz Weddings. Their expertise ensured that every moment was thoughtfully curated, from the breathtaking ceremony setup on the sandy shores to the vibrant reception brimming with energy and elegance. Each detail was perfectly tailored, seamlessly blending cultural traditions with a modern twist. For Krina's stunning Mehndi, Loto Mehndi worked their magic, adorning her hands with intricate designs that told a story of love and tradition. The delicate patterns were a work of art, perfectly complementing the vibrant colors of the celebration.

Behind the scenes, Shaadi Destinations played a pivotal role as the travel concierge, ensuring every guest's journey to Riviera Maya was as seamless as the wedding itself. From coordinating accommodations to providing personalized assistance, they ensured that Krina & Jon's loved ones could fully immerse themselves in the joyous festivities without worry.

How did you meet your Groom and when did you know he was "the one"?
I met Jonathan on a cold January day. I had driven from Boston to Michigan for a medical school interview. I saw a quiet man sitting alone and immediately thought to myself that I would definitely shine next to him. We ended up both getting accepted to the same medical school,l and the rest is history.

I was raised in a traditional Gujarati household and never thought I would fall in love with a Taiwanese Michigander. On the surface, there were significant cultural differences but when I got to know Jonathan more, I realized that an individual's cultural and religious background does not matter as much as their personality. The more I got to know Jonathan, the more I realized that we had a lot in common with similar upbringings. I knew Jonathan was the one when he flew to Boston to meet my parents and promised them that he would do anything to keep me happy for the rest of his life.

Share the scoop on your Proposal Story!
Jonathan knew I always loved a romantic picnic but we never had much time as we were in a long-distance relationship. One of of our trips to San Diego, Jonathan drove me to one of our favorite locations, Torrey Pines, for a picnic. He had all my favorite snacks, which basically make up a charcuterie board. In true Jonathan fashion, he asked me to pose for a picture facing the water and when I turned around, he was down on one knee!

I honestly cannot tell you what he said next because I immediately started crying. The next few moments were such a blur but the perfect start to our forever.

What was the most enjoyable part of the planning process, and why?
Food tasting has to be the best part of any planning process. We have always bonded on their love for food. We both love trying new cuisines and making Indian and Asian delicacies. The best part of wedding planning was creating a fusion menu that highlighted our favorite meals growing up. It was so fun to work with the chef and create fun dessert flavors and a cocktail menu. As two doctors in vastly different medical fields, we knew they HAD to have nerdy cocktail names. I am a cardiologist who thrives in the chaos of an ICU, whereas Jonathan is an ophthalmologist who enjoys the routine in his clinic. Their specialty drinks were called Code Blue and Pink Eye.

What did your guests particularly love about your Wedding?
One thing we have constantly heard from our guests was how special they felt. They received constant communication from our planners and did not have to worry about getting to and fro the wedding venues. They felt like the wedding was very intimate even though the guest size was ~140 guests.

Despite all the traditional aspects of the wedding, they felt very included and enjoyed being involved. They loved how much our families danced and wanted everyone to be on the dance floor at all times. Lastly, we have heard from sooo many people that the food was incredible. Everything from the traditional Gujarati srikhand to the indo-Chinese was top-notch and one of theri best wedding meals.

Was there a really special moment in your wedding that constantly replays in your mind?
Growing up, every girl dreams of their wedding day. I was raised in Gujarat and had always thought I would get married in the traditional manner somewhere in India. Never in a million years did I think I would be having not one but two wedding ceremonies on a beach surrounded by our loved ones. I could not have imagined having a fusion wedding that equally celebrated and respected Krina and Jonathan's upbringing.

One of my favorite moments was walking down to the beach for our first look. Jonathan was waiting by the beach. I could hear him holding his breath as he heard me getting closer. Seeing each other that morning made it all real. Through the tears, we looked at each other and knew that we had made it.

Do you have any words of wisdom for Brides-To-Be?
Remember to eat. Indian weddings are long and stressful. I did not sleep until probably midnight after our Sangeet and had to be up at 3:30 for hair and makeup. I had no appetite and did not eat a big breakfast prior to getting into my wedding outfit. my lehnga weighed >40 lbs and I was minutes from passing out before my entrance towards the mandap. My advise-EAT and stay hydrated!

Despite all the planning, things will go wrong, and things will happen out of your control. Your loved ones will spend more time on ceremonies that may not be as important to you. Remember that this may be your wedding, but it also is a very important day for your parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and wedding party. Let them celebrate you!

Plan your hair and makeup trial on a humid/hot day and keep it on for the rest of the day. This way, you can prepare for the worst and see what adjustments need to be made. During my makeup trial, it incidentally happened to be a rainy day. I noticed that my undereye makeup got very cakey in the humidity. I spent the next few months finding a primer and setting powder that worked for my skin, and my makeup was truly flawless.

This Riviera Maya celebration was a true testament to love crossing all boundaries.

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

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