Italy’s medieval streets, stunning Lake Como and myriad historic structures proved to be perfect backdrops for Rishabh and Pooja’s pre-wedding photo shoot. WeddingSutra Favorite – CineLove Productions captured the couple in stunning frames and the experience turned out to be very special for everyone involved. Rishabh shares some highlights here.
How We Met
“Professionally, I take care of my family business while Pooja is a fashion designer. An arranged marriage proposal initiated by our parents brought us together. We may have started as strangers, but within no time, we connected deeply, and from there began our fairy tale love story. Our conversations led to the realization that we connected on so many levels. One thing we have in common is that we both love getting photographed! So we decided that we would capture some special moments before the wedding and treasure the pictures and experience in our hearts for a lifetime.”
Pre-Wedding Shoot
“Pooja and I wanted our shoot to be dreamy but as realistic as possible at the same time. We were keen on locations that looked royal and offered beautiful landscapes. After exploring many options, we chose Milan and Lake Como. The photoshoot was carefully curated by the CineLove Productions team, keeping our personalities in mind. Shooting amidst a crowd was not as easy as we thought, but posing by the Cathedral with the locals looking at us warmly was encouraging and made us feel at ease.”
“Some elements like feeding the pigeons and using drones for overhead shots helped make the shoot a rather interesting one. We will cherish the whole experience and our beautiful photos forever!”
Locations: Lake Como, Milan and Bellagio (Italy) Photography:CineLove Productions
Warm, breezy locations can be a wonderful choice for pre-wedding photo shoots as the climate lends itself to languid silhouettes and cool splashes in the pool or the ocean. Zainab and Murtaza opted to head to Oman for their pre-wedding photo shoot to capture that essence of a romantic summer soiree.
With swaying palm trees, striking traditional architecture and bougainvillea blooms brightening up the landscapes with their pops of colors, Oman served up a range of breathtaking backdrops. WeddingSutra Favorite WhatKnot captured the couple’s romance, and here, Zainab shares their love story and some highlights of the experience.
How We Met
“Murtaza is from Muscat but was studying in Boston when we first connected, while I hail from Mumbai. I mistook him for somebody else, which is how we got talking on Facebook. We never thought our paths would cross, but we developed a special connection with each other. He and I started confiding in each other and began sharing things via text messages. The first few months we simply talked a lot, but not once did we think that it would lead to anything more. However, one day we just touched upon the topic of us being together, and that’s what marked the beginning of our relationship! Our first video chat was an unforgettable moment. The expression on his face with that twinkle in his eyes made me realize that what we had was special. Our chats and calls continued for months until December! The moment Murtaza completed his semester, he flew down from Boston the same night to meet me. Our deep connection made it easier for us to tell our parents that we had found our soulmates in each other. They were supportive and thrilled, and could not believe how we managed to pull everything off. We got engaged the following week!! As the saying goes, ‘When you know, you know,’ seemed apt in our case.”
The Proposal
“When I was in Muscat, Murtaza planned a very thoughtful proposal for me at Sifah beach. A very romantic setup was arranged under the beautiful starry skies where it was just the two of us, the ocean and glowing candles. Everything was perfect! Murtaza sent me a voice note and asked me to hear it. The voice note is significant since that’s how I had heard his voice for the first time when we were getting to know each other. He then went down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was all so dreamy!”
Pre-Wedding Photo Shoot
At first, Murtaza was not keen on a pre-wedding photo shoot but agreed to do it for Zainab. She shares, “Murtaza isn’t a great fan of getting himself clicked but agreed to go ahead with a pre-wedding photo shoot for me. We picked the gorgeous Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa in Oman as our photo shoot venue. The property is situated on a cliff that overlooks the beautiful Gulf of Oman. Eventually, I could also see Murtaza warming up to the idea, and he was playful and jovial with the crew which helped out a lot. ”
The couple posed against traditional archways, in front of the calm waters of the gulf and on the lush gardens of the property. The WhatKnot team captured a series of images that fused sun rays, shadows and silhouettes in a compelling manner, thereby making this pre-wedding photo album a uniquely aesthetic one.
A scenic country situated on the shores of the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan is a captivating destination that offers rich history and contemporary charm. Little wonder then that it is fast becoming a magnet for high-profile celebrations for couples and families from across the globe.
One such celebration was the 25th wedding anniversary of Rajesh and Shilpa Kothari that was planned by WeddingSutra Favorite Swaaha WMC in the walled city of Baku, which is the capital of Azerbaijan.
Telling us more about the grand three-day event, Hemant Kale and Mareesha Parikh of Swaaha WMC shares, “A couple’s 25th anniversary is just as, if not more, special as their wedding. It is meant to honor their journey and strong bond. So for Mr. and Mrs. Kothari, we designed lavish celebrations that went on for three days and left everyone with many precious memories.”
Why choose Baku as a location for the anniversary bash?
Hemant Kale explains, “Baku is a medieval town which has been getting a lot of attention from people all over the world, yet it is relatively unexplored by many Indians. It’s a land that offers a layer of Arabic culture with a Russian twist owing to its Soviet past which is a unique combination. Additionally, it is easily reachable from India. All of these factors made this place a clear winner.”
Exotic Extravaganza
The festivities began with a high tea at Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers, where folk dancers of Azerbaijan welcomed the guests and gave them a glimpse of the local culture. Soon it was time for ‘Polka Fever’ which was a retro-themed party that the couple threw in honor of their younger days. “This party served up a heavy dose of retro Bollywood, and the dress code requested everyone to wear outfits with polka dots on it. The idea was to rewind time and let everyone relive the fun of the 70-80s era. The night concluded with a Gatsby-themed soiree at Enerji Club, one of Baku’s most hip clubbing venues where guests witnessed enthralling acts by fire performers.”
Repeat of Vows
A fleet of vintage luxury cars transported guests to a 120-year old Lutheran church the following morning where the couple exchanged their vows once again. “We called this ceremony ‘I Do Again’ and decided to host it at one of the most beautiful churches in Baku. The decor included lots of white drapes and pastel flowers that highlighted the building’s original architecture. This was a very heartwarming day for the couple and their guests.”
Stunning Sunset Soiree
Once the rituals were over, the party moved to the Yacht Club where the two had their ‘first dance’ which was followed by rocking sunset after-party titled ‘Azeri Night’ where everyone enjoyed beautiful views of the Caspian Sea from the venue as well as authentic Azerbaijani entertainment. “We had local artists and performers booked for the night, and the venue was set up to look like a village square that was brought to life by live music and lots of lights.”
Treasure Hunt Trail
The third day began on an exhilarating note as guests zipped through the city in London-style taxis decoding clues as they searched for exciting gifts. “The treasure hunt was another event which everyone thoroughly enjoyed! They went around town despite the chilly weather and unfamiliar roads, and not a single team gave up without a good try. This activity was such a success not only because of our planning but also because of the spirit of all the participants!”
Charming Conclusion
‘Shukran Night’ was the title for the grand finale where the couple expressed their thanks to their family and friends for their presence. The evening was filled with dance performances by the duo’s nearest and dearest and made for a fitting end to three-day-long gala.
Venues: Energi Club (Gatsby Night), Lutheran Church (I Do Again) & Yacht Club (I Do Again celebrations) Planner:Swaaha Experience Management Co. Décor: YES Decor, Baku Photography and Videography: The Wedding Pheras
While glimpses of the fairy chimneys, blue skies dotted with hot air balloons and otherworldly land formations immediately pin the location as Cappadocia, Turkey’s magical ‘moonscape’ – you could wonder if Nhaveya and Sagar played with time and captured four seasons in one day.
One moment the sky is a summer blue, another moment a tree is turning gold and in yet another photograph, the couple stands, embracing each other in snowfall. WeddingSutra Favorite Divine Mantra has excelled in this pre-wedding shoot that places the couple amid breathtaking landscapes, showcasing both – their burgeoning new love and the ancient, mystical magic of Cappadocia.
How We Met
“Our families met via a mutual relative and it all began there. I was in Chennai and Sagar is from Delhi and we began conversing on text at first. Our chats began with a few words but then would stretch out over hours. Once we began chatting, we couldn’t stop. We talked for 11 hours at a stretch! It felt like ages but it had been only a week by then and then we decided to meet in Delhi.
Once we saw each other there was a definite connection that felt very strong. We knew this was meant to be. Despite being an arranged marriage, it feels like we have known each other for a really long time.”
Pre-Wedding Photoshoot
“Divine Mantra suggested we have our pre-wedding shoot in Cappadocia, Turkey. The surreal landscapes, the hot air balloons in the background and the snow helped make this the perfect locale for the photo shoot.
We stayed at the Museum Hotel Cappadocia, in itself an apt venue for a photo shoot. The snow on the ground was slightly challenging but also made for beautiful elements in the photos. We have amazing memories from the shoot that will be cherished forever.”
Venue: Cappadocia, Turkey Photography and Videography: Divine Mantra
Shrey and Shivali’s beautiful post-wedding photo shoot at a Rajput fort inspired locale in Faridabad by WeddingSutra Favorites Studio Finesse and We Don’t Say Cheese exuded grandiose vibes.
How We Met
Shrey and Shivali first met as students at the Jaypee University of Engineering and Technology. The initial days of their first year at university marked the beginning of their friendship which silently blossomed into love. As their relationship deepened, it led Shrey to confidently ask Shivali, “When do you want to get married?” instead of “Will you marry me?” 10 years later, Shrey and Shivali stand happily married and ready to spend forever together.
Post-Wedding Photo Shoot
An interesting and unique concept with a cause – Indiaphotopedia – dominated the theme of Shrey and Shivali’s post-wedding photo shoot with four different photography teams capturing some cherished moments. The Perfect Location in Faridabad proved to be a dramatic and multi-faceted venue for the shoot.
Studio Finesse focused on keeping the historic elements of the locale intact. The bride’s opulent look was a perfect match for the baroque decor at the venue, while the groom gave compelling poses with his innate confidence and candour. Glimpses of Bollywood could be seen in the photos by We Don’t Say Cheese. Shivali’s red dupatta added a nice pop of color to the backdrop that seemed like an ode to regal Rajput forts.
Venue: The Perfect Location, Faridabad Bride’s Outfit: Om Prakash Jawahar Lal, Chandni Chowk Groom’s Outfit:Manyavar Makeup Artist: Makeup By Sapna Thakur
Actor Mohit Marwah is marrying his long-time girlfriend Antara Motiwala in the peaceful Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK). The venue for the three-day wedding is Waldorf Astoria, and the high-profile celebrations are being planned by UAE/ Mumbai-based Milestones to Memories (MtoM).
Mohit Marwah and Antara Motiwala
Mohit Marwah is the son of Reena and Sandeep Marwah from New Delhi. Reena Marwah is the only sister of Bollywood actors Anil and Sanjay Kapoor, and producer Boney Kapoor – all of whom will be there at the celebrations. All eyes will also be on the groom’s cousin sister and soon-to-be bride Sonam Kapoor whose wedding is expected to take place at a secret destination in end-March or April (earlier the buzz was that it would be hosted in Jodhpur; now there are whispers that it may be held in New Delhi or at a secret destination in Asia or Europe).
Antara, a Bollywood stylist by profession, is the daughter of Bhavana Motiwala who is the elder sister of Tina Ambani. So this will be a grand celebration with Bollywood A-listers and business biggies including Karan Johar and Varun Dhawan alongside Anil and Tina Ambani. There are rumours that the Bachchans are expected to attend too.
The Marwah-Motiwala wedding will commence with a welcome dinner on February 18th. The afternoon mehndi will be held the following day on the hotel’s Cabana Lawns, followed by an evening sangeet at the Al Fayrouz Beach Front. The wedding ceremony will take place on February 20th, followed by the finale cocktails and dinner at the Al Fayrouz Poolside. The design & decor production for all the events is by Fete Events Dubai.
Mehndi at the serene setting of Cabana Lawns
Sangeet at the Al Fayrouz beach front
Sehra Bandhi at the glamorous Camelia Lounge
Cocktails and Dinner at the Al Fayrouz Poolside overlooking the beach
Luxury resort Waldorf Astoria tucked away in RAK is an ideal venue for a big Indian wedding. Several prominent business families, including Bangalore’s Mantri Builders, have hosted grand wedding celebrations at this resort which has a private white sand beach, 346 rooms, and spacious suites with pristine views of the Arabian shoreline.
The Mantri Builders family wedding was also orchestrated by the same team that is managing the Marwah-Motiwala wedding such as Aarti Manocha of M2M, and the design/ event production by Mallika Singh of Fete Events Dubai. Around 800 guests flew in from India for the Mantri Builders wedding, and were accommodated at the Waldorf Astoria and Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort in RAK. The wedding ceremony, beach party and cricket match took place at the Waldorf Astoria. The sangeet was organized at the Bassata Desert Village which is a 30-minute drive from Waldorf Astoria, and the reception was hosted at the Al Hamra Golf Course.
Watch this space and our Instagram page for more updates on the Marwah-Motiwala marriage!
The Soul Stories perfectly encapsulates the sweet and passionate bond between Prina and Rahul in the tropical surroundings of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The shimmering turquoise waters, clear cerulean skies, soft, warm sands, and a captivating forest make enthralling settings to showcase the couple’s relationship in their pre-wedding film.
Glimpses of the islands’ exquisite beauty are displayed through a montage of stunning landscapes, underwater footage of coral and fish, and aerial views of charming neighborhoods. The film then introduces the couple in their beautiful attire as the words of Faiz Ahmed’s ‘Mujhse Pehli Si Mohabbat Mere Mehboob Na Maang’ are earnestly narrated, leaving you with goosebumps as you take in the entire composition.
Gestures of love exchanged between the couple are blended in with candid moments; all perfectly captured and weaved into the video. From a romantic candlelight dinner on the beach to surreal shots of the couple effortlessly interacting with each other underwater, the video portrays two soulmates lost in their own special world. This pre-wedding film gives the audience intimate insight into Prina’s and Rahul’s wonderful bond, with the added visual treat of the beautifully-shot natural surroundings. It is a theatrical teaser of things to come during the couple’s wedding celebrations.
Our series ‘Young and Inspiring’ showcases fresh and exciting new talent from the design, fashion and events industries. We feature the teams who specialize in creating personalized dream weddings for couples, making every wish of theirs a reality on their special day.
Krafted Knots consists of a team of talented and passionate wedding planners led by two boss ladies who work closely with couples, translating their ideas and direction into elegant, opulent, one-of-a-kind events.
Shreya Dutta and Ekta Sharma are two best friends who realized that together their enthusiasm, creativity and talents could be pooled to provide an excellent wedding planning solution in an industry that demands freshness and uniqueness.
Their business venture has led them to becoming one of the most sought-after wedding planning teams in the industry today. Here, Shreya and Ekta share their journey and offer suggestions to couples looking to host a spectacular wedding.
1. From best friends to business partners, what led to the establishment of Krafted Knots? How has the journey been so far?
We have been friends since high school and are quite similar in many ways. We both like our things to be kept in an organized manner and are extremely careful about every detail of what we do. We first got a taste of working in the wedding industry while helping my sister during her wedding. We realized then just how much we enjoyed doing it. When we started Krafted Knots, we never really thought of it as a business because it was something we both felt very passionate about. The journey has been a rollercoaster ride: brilliant, exciting and scary! We have enjoyed every moment of it. A 9 to 5 job could never have given us the fulfilment we get from doing what we do.
2. Indian v/s the International market – what have the experiences been like?
We primarily do a lot of NRI and cross-cultural weddings, but we love organizing weddings in India. The opportunity to explore the different foods, rituals and music is amazing. These days there seems to be an increase in the demand for more adventurous elements and unique ideas at the celebrations. This is exactly what we love doing! Each of our clients have different tastes and wants, and we enjoy brainstorming and coming up with new and interesting concepts for them. We have been fortunate enough to work with like-minded clients who appreciate our style and way of working.
3. Krafted Knots takes care of so many aspects of a wedding. How do you manage to balance it all?
We are both quite organized and detail oriented but, more than this, we have an amazing team who has been with us since we started out. We understand each of our team members’ strengths and assign work accordingly. The best part is that we are like one big family. We don’t just work together but also hang out together! And we take our downtime very seriously. We work very hard but also balance it out by taking time off to do things that we love and spend time with our friends and family.
4. What do you both think is a wedding element, décor, idea or theme that is on the brink of becoming the next big hit?
Local flowers and locally-sourced materials. We really feel that these elements are currently under-represented. Everyone looks for exotic flowers but there is so much beauty in local flowers and locally-sourced materials and this is yet to be embraced. Choosing local flowers doesn’t just look gorgeous when styled well, it also has the added bonus of being sustainable.
5. What is your favorite destination wedding venue in India and abroad?
We have been wowed by Rajasthan – be it Jaisalmer, Udaipur or Jaipur. The food and the ambience is amazing. Internationally, we love Bali! The island vibe, along with the excellent hospitality, makes it a very beautiful destination.
6. Minimalistic, Elegant Wedding Theme or Grandeur, Glamorous Wedding Theme – what’s your pick?
Minimalistic, Elegant Wedding, always!
7. How can couples help wedding planners execute the perfect dream wedding?
As wedding planners, it’s always helpful to work with couples who have an idea about what they want for the wedding. If their vision is clear, it helps us create something as per their taste.
A suggestion would be to please get your wedding planner on-board as early as you can. It helps to have a sufficient amount of time to plan and also to get to know the family. Nothing good can be rushed.
It is also important to trust your wedding planner. Whatever due diligence needs to be done, it is best if done before. Once your wedding planner is on board, it isn’t productive to keep second guessing their inputs. Remember, we too want the wedding to be as beautiful as possible, and we speak from a place of experience. So yes, please share with us all your ideas and thoughts but also trust us when we tell you what’s going to work and what might not!
To book Krafted Knots to plan your dream wedding click here.
Payal and Yogesh’s pre-wedding photoshoot in sunny Melbourne, captured by Wide Eyedea Photography, was a bright and happy account of the couple’s relationship, with photographs that showcased their palpable chemistry. The vibrant city atmosphere and enchanting locales provided the perfect backdrop to their contemporary love story.
How They Met
While their families may have wanted to play cupid, it was through social media that the couple actually connected. Revealing their shared history, Payal says, “Our families knew each other well as they were part of the same circle. We were linked-up and teased about this from the time we were children. Later, they wanted us to get to know each other as adults. We, however, postponed this for many, many years! Then we had our first conversation… on Facebook. It was there that we got to know that we had common interests. Yogesh is a structural engineer and I am an interior designer, so work brought up many conversations at the start and, today, here we are.”
The Proposal
Their social media connection evolved into a whirlwind romance and the realization that they were soulmates. In December 2017, Yogesh decided to make it official and planned a special surprise for Payal. She shares her memory of the milestone, saying, “Yogesh’s family took me to Perth for his cousin’s wedding. We were out on Cottesloe Beach and enjoying the view when he proposed. It was natural, simple and minimalist. Just us in our jackets and sneakers. We later took some photos on his phone and everything felt simply perfect.”
Pre-Wedding Shoot
The couple chose the gorgeous city of Melbourne in Australia for their pre-wedding photoshoot. Choosing the location was an easy decision for Payal and Yogesh. Yogesh had studied there and continued to work there. The shoot was executed by a photography service from Melbourne called Wide Eyedea Photography. According to the bride, the mood board for the outfits and venues were all planned by the photographer. All they had to do was show up and get their special moments captured on film.
While the results turned out beautifully and it was a great experience, it wasn’t without some challenges. The bride elaborates, “Walking around in heels from one venue to another and changing outfits in the car or in public places was challenging. However, the photographer and his assistant were very helpful throughout. They assisted us wherever possible.”
Revealing her favorite part of the shoot, she says, “The most fun we had was during the first part of the shoot – around the coffee shops. We were dressed casually in sweaters, jeans and boots.”
Payal and Yogesh’s wedding took place on the 8th of December, 2018, approximately a year after their proposal. The couple made multiple trips back to India during that year to shop for their wedding trousseaus. Theirs was a destination wedding held in a small town in Indonesia; a place that the newlyweds fell in love with for its intimacy and uniqueness.
Location: Melbourne, Australia Photography: Wide-Eyedea Photography, Melbourne
The surreal beauty of Ladakh, with crystal clear waters mirroring the clear blue sky, made for a stunning setting for Kunica and Rahul pre-wedding photoshoot. The couple was keen on a unique destination with a striking scenery as the backdrop to their romantic shoot. Ladakh’s stunning vistas did not disappoint. The groom, Rahul, talks about the Bollywood-inspired photoshoot.
How They Met
“Kunica and I were introduced via her cousin, who was a friend of mine. At the time, we were both focussed on establishing our respective careers but, soon after being introduced, we became the best of friends. Our friendship gradually blossomed and grew into love.
We lived miles away from each other and were in a long-distance relationship for a while before we decided to get married with blessings from our families.”
Proposal
“I paid her a surprise visit in Surat, where she lived, and took her out for a romantic, candlelit dinner. As love songs were playing, I showered her with gifts, a delicious cake and a diamond ring surrounded by beautiful rose petals! Right in the middle of dinner, I went down on one knee and asked, ‘Will you marry me?’”
Pre-Wedding Photoshoot
“From the time we started dating we knew we were going to get married one day. Kunica had been thinking about her dream destination for a photoshoot for a while! She wanted a dreamy, Bollywood-ish shoot as she loves romantic movies, so we tried to go along those lines.
“We did some extensive research for about two years before we finally decided on Leh Ladakh, which she describes as paradise. Ladakh is one of the most enchanting and beautiful places we have seen.
We had about 12 outfits to choose from, that had a mix of styles, from sophisticated to dramatic, casual to Bollywood. We worked on coordinated outfits, which we customized from designers in our cities.
“Shooting in Ladakh was not easy; there were many challenges such as the weather and the way it affected us. The climate fluctuations, right from extremely sunny days at Nubra Valley (Hundar Dessert) to heavy rain and the cold and wind, especially at Pangong Lake, were a lot to deal with. However, we were determined and made it all work!”
India’s identity is multi-faceted but its joyous, colorful celebrations with their unique blend of reverence and revelry stand out. And amidst the calendar filled with seasonal carnivals, religious festivals and other moments of joy – the Indian wedding seems to surpass them all in the way they amalgamate love, cheer and sheer magnificence! Wherever in the world the Indian wedding may be – it will carry the colors and warmth of home.
WeddingSutra Favorite – Cineyug hosted a grand celebration in the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi and the festivities managed to inspire awe effortlessly.
To host their splendid celebrations, the couple chose the sumptuous Emirates Palace, a breathtaking backdrop for this milestone occasion. Impressive on its own, the Palace’s spaces lent themselves to the diverse concepts the planners envisaged for each function.
The revelries commenced with an engagement ceremony. Here, a nautical theme’s usual blue and white palette was infused with muted pink, making it stand out. Hosted by the open waters, the décor featured flowers, abstract objets d’art, and a minimalist skeletal backdrop with glass orbs that seemed to float between the poles. The aisle, elevated and made of glass, was filled with blooms underneath while over it a roof made of blue and white tassles and abstract waveforms arched. The table décor resonated with the concept – flowers beneath a transparent tabletop and chairs upholstered in pink velvet.
A traditional wedding followed this modern engagement. The planners – Cineyug conjured up an ethnic aesthetic playing with color and concepts. At the center of the venue, a golden dome and a large tent formed a glorious mandap. The Sri-Yantra backdrop was created using fresh flowers and foliage. In the center sat an Agni Kund designed to look like a blooming lotus. The canopy was surrounded by amphitheater-style seating, covered in awnings made of luscious fabric in Indian patterns. One of the most eye-catching features at the ceremony was the floral rangoli that added the perfect finishing touch to the elegant set up.
The festivities concluded on an extravagant note. The reception drew inspiration from Indian royalty infused with a few Western touches. The façade of a palace was recreated as a stage at one end of the venue, surrounded by regal balconies. Plush seating dotted the spaces and on the periphery, the planners placed canopies bathed in golden light. The dining area echoed the color scheme and royal mood but its distinctive personality was rendered via paintings evocative of Italian frescoes, framed by golden panels and lit by floral chandeliers.
The Wedding Makers Venues: Emirates Palace Wedding Planner:Cineyug Photos Courtesy: Badal Raja Company
Jay and Nimrat’s dreamy wedding photoshoot shot by WeddingSutra Favorite – Divine Mantra seems like just something out of a romantic fantasy. The aerial views from the heavenly Greek island of Santorini form the perfect canvas for Nimrat and Jay’s breathtaking wedding shoot against the sea and sky.
How They Met
Jay remembers the day he met Nimrat as clearly as though it was yesterday. He spotted her at a club in New Delhi and instantly found himself drawn to her. His sister introduced them, and he’s been thankful to her ever since. Nimrat and Jay spent the evening lost in conversation and stopped only when it was time to hit the dance floor. They forged a bond from that evening which has only grown stronger with each passing day.
Wedding
The couple’s traditional Sikh wedding ceremony, known as ‘Anand Karaj’ took place in New Delhi. The bride and groom closely looked into planning the wedding functions which reflected their true selves along with all the elements, colors and themes they loved.
Reception
The couple chose to host their reception in Greece at the groom’s uncle’s abode.
Photo Shoot Venue
Jay shares, “We wanted our wedding photographs to be worth remembering, so, we decided to have a photo shoot done in Santorini to capture what are now going to be memories of a lifetime.”
Wedding Photo Shoot
The dreamy locations inspired the couple to have a wedding photoshoot in the mystical Greek island of Santorini. The pristine whites of the complexes and the otherworldly charm like the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea meeting the skies were highlighted in the stunning shots captured by WeddingSutra Favorite – Divine Mantra.
Each shot was crafted with precision and finesse highlighting the undeniable chemistry between the couple. Nimrat’s traditional peach lehenga contrasted gorgeously with the brilliant blue of the backdrop. Talking about his experience of working with the Divine Mantra team, Jay shares, “The guys at Divine Mantra were our photographers, but it felt like we had friends there with us throughout all of the crazy wedding planning and on the big day. We highly recommend Divine Mantra!”
The prospect of starting a new chapter of your life amidst exotic locales is an enticing one. However, the challenge lies in choosing a venue that is easily accessible and has all the facilities you need to make your big day truly memorable. To help you shortlist some venues that are reachable from at least one major Indian international airport via just one flight, we got in touch with some leading planners of the industry. Here are their recommendations based on their experiences of organizing Indian weddings there.
Intercontinental Fujairah Resort, UAE
“Can’t choose between a mountain wedding and beachside do? You’ll can host both at Intercontinental Fujairah Resort. Sprawling on the Al Aqah Beach, the property affords views of the Hajjar Mountains as well as the Gulf of Oman. Furthermore, they house a number of distinctive indoor and outdoor venues, each of which lent a unique vibe to Alisha and Joel’s wedding functions.”
– Rahul Kumar & Arun Bablani of Vivaah Weddings
Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, UAE
“International travelers often prefer a venue that is close to the airport which makes Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre one of the most preferred venues in Dubai. The hotel’s convenient location combined with luxurious offerings allows couples and their guests to truly enjoy the wedding despite the travel. We recently hosted Mehak and Suraj’s wedding at this property, and we received such an overwhelming response from everyone present there.”
– Rachna Chadha, BAQAA Glamour Weddings & Events
Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
“A hotel that needs no description, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, is just the place to say ‘I do’ for seekers of unparalleled luxury. The iconic property effortlessly adds to the exuberance of any wedding with its lavishly done interiors and unmatched hospitality.
– Pooja Ghai of Tranquiil Weddings
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
“A property that has played host to Antara Motiwala and Mohit Marwah’s Bollywood wedding, the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah spells pure indulgence. The nuptials that we organized at this hotel were every bit a fairytale affair and the location that we chose for the festivities had a big hand in making it so.”
– Aarti Manocha of Milestones To Memories
“What’s makes this property such a great place to exchange your vows is that its luxuriously designed spaces make an ideal canvas for equally extravagant decor concepts.”
– Mallika Singh of Fête Events
Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE
“The Emirates Palace is a magnificent property where one finds matchless luxury and unbeatable grandeur. Fashioned to look like nothing less than the residence of a Sultan, this hotel transforms celebrations into larger-than-life events. Their ornate ballrooms, expansive lawns, plush rooms and suites, as well as the discerning staff, made Krupa and Ruchit’s wedding here a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the truest sense.”
– Monil Shah of KKings Events
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, Oman
“Oman is a treasure trove of distinctive landscapes. And while you can’t experience all of them at once, a wedding at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah allows you to witness its pristine shoreline and rugged mountains at the same time. In addition to these backdrops, the hotel also boasts some beautiful indoor venues along with manicured lawns. For Mahek and Divya’s wedding, we made the most of all the options that this hotel had to offer.”
– Rishi Rochlani and Yamini Shah of The Wedding Designers
Sheraton Oman Hotel, Oman
“Not only is the Sheraton Oman Hotel the tallest building in the city, but it is also home to the biggest ballroom in all of Muscat. From the rooms and venues here one can enjoy views of the lofty Hajjar Mountains in the distance, while they are taken care of by the hotel’s warm staff. We planned Nikita and Gilles’ wedding at this property which seamlessly added some Omani touches to their culture-rich celebrations.”
– Krupa Khimji of Mosaic Events
Hotel Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, Bahrain
“Bahrain, though steeped in history, has embraced modernity and has some wonderful luxury retreats including the Hotel Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. We recently worked closely with this hotel in order to organize a wedding and can say with confidence that this makes for a fantastic property to host Indian nuptials.”
– Vaibhav Kejriwal of Arika Event
“This hotel is one where it is easy to bring to life even experimental ideas and concepts owing to carefully done event spaces that have been designed to be as versatile as possible.”
– Priti Sidhwani of Dreamzkrraft
Çırağan Palace Kempinski, Turkey
“An Ottoman Palace and hotel, the Çırağan Palace Kempinski reflects the luxury and opulence that was characteristic of the royals of this empire. Weddings here are steeped in romance and are sure to make any bride feel like a real-life princess ready to tie the knot! The property has a number of utterly breathtaking event spaces, but the one that remains unmatched is the Palace Terrace, which is an open setting right beside the Bosporus river.”
– Imran Qureshi and Naureen Morani of Cineyug Celebrations
Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, Nepal
“In Nepal, a country that has been relatively unexplored by the Indian wedding industry, one will come across the Hyatt Regency Kathmandu. This property is an excellent option for couples like Deepak and Sakshi, who like unique architecture and splendid views. The hotel is a fine example of traditional planning and construction of Nepalese buildings; yet, their rooms and event spaces offer sophisticated, modern amenities.”
– Varun Dua of Evolve Weddings
Tiger Palace Resort, Nepal
“Tucked away in the outer foothills of the Himalayas, the Tiger Palace Resort adds a touch of serenity to one’s celebrations. While the natural abundance that surrounds the property creates an ambience unlike any other, the expansive premises and the wonderful interiors only add to the experience. While the hotel lends itself well even to a boisterous affair, it works particularly well for intimate Indian weddings thanks to its calm environs.”
– Kanika Kumria of Kaleerein by Kanika Kumria
Anantara Kalutara Resort, Sri Lanka
“Couples who are looking to get married at a popular tourist destination without being surrounded by the crowds will find the perfect wedding venue in the Anantara Kalutara Resort. Located only a 90-minute drive away from Colombo, the hotel extends the most striking beachfront setting along with a lush lawn as well as a stylish ballroom. We hosted Shikha and Tanya’s celebrations here which were a hit with their guests.”
– Vishaal S Shah and Anway P Bhoite of Purple Chariot Weddings – India & Sri Lanka Experts
Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, Switzerland
“Switzerland’s captivating landscapes are a sight to behold and for those who find themselves agreeing with this notion, a wedding at the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa will be one out of a dream. The historic property with hospitality that dates back over 150 years houses rooms that overlook the Bernese Highlands and Interlaken. Even the event spaces at the property encapsulate a distinctive character, thus ensuring that each function here is nothing but remarkable.”
– Bhavnesh Sawhney and Farid Khan of FB Celebrations
Kulm Hotel St. Moritz
“The mountains of Switzerland have forever had a place in Indian hearts and a property that allows its guests to revel in the glory of the Alps is the Kulm Hotel St. Moritz. The heritage resort began operations over 150 years ago and while it manages to retain the old-world charm through its interiors and design, it is also comes equipped with all modern-day creature comforts. For a couple looking for a cozy wedding with 350 loved ones in attendance and views of peaks blanketed in snow, this is just the place to be.”
– Ketan Sawant and Nitya Bagri of A New Knot
The Palayana Hua Hin, Thailand
“While Indian weddings have a reputation of having the most extensive guest lists, the current generation seems to be moving the needle on traditional weddings. Couples like Sanah and Dushyant who prefer celebrating their big day in a quiet and exotic location, with only their closest family and friends, will find a number of charming venues and plush accommodation options at The Palayana Hua Hin. The hotel easily hosts about 130 people at a time and even offers a complete buyout.”
– Naree Kiatvacharapong of Divine Events
Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort And Spa, Thailand
“The Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort And Spa is a property where each event space seems to be better than the last. Be it the rooftop, beachside, ballroom, garden, oceanside terrace or more, all of them set the stage for inspired events and one-of-a-kind celebrations. At Vranda and Chirag’s wedding that we organized at this hotel, each function was held at a different space thus ensuring that the festivities unfailingly packed a sense of freshness.”
– Ritu Lamba of Urbana Weddings & Events
Splash Beach Resort, Thailand
“A property that encourages cheer with its lively ambience, Splash Beach Resort is perfect for a fun wedding. The unmissable youthful vibe that permeates its premises heightens the boisterous spirit of weddings such as Jaskirat and Sujinder’s Punjabi celebrations. In addition, this resort even has its own waterpark which makes for an interesting diversion for the wedding party!”
– Sagar Vasudev of Wizkim Wedding Design and Styling
Angsana Laguna Phuket, Thailand
“A property that looks like it’s floating on the water, Angsana Laguna Phuket makes for one of the dreamiest wedding destinations in all of Thailand. With one side of the property opening up to the beach and facing a calm lagoon, this resort is an ideal pick for couples like Shivangi and Danny who tend to lean towards captivating waterscapes.”
– Sharan Hora, Ravina Sawhney and Ruchika Pawa of Pink Palki
Shangri-La Bangkok, Thailand
“The Shangri-La Bangkok is a hotel that unites accessibility with aesthetics. Located about 40 minutes away from the Bangkok international airport, this property welcomes wedding guests into an oasis of urban comforts. Here Indian festivities unfold seamlessly at their stylish ballrooms and picture-perfect waterfront venues.”
– Rosy Gambhir, Navneet Changchroenkul & Jasreen K. Narang of Version Events & Weddings
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, Thailand
“Perched by the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort is a sanctuary of tranquillity in the bustling capital of Thailand. Surrounded by 11 acres of verdant landscapes, overlooking the flowing river, the hotel combines the convenience of a city wedding with the relaxed vibe of an affair set amidst nature. That was evident at Priyanka and Rasesh’s lovely nuptials which took place here.”
– Keeran Baweja and Meghna Mirpuri of Keeran The Wedding Planner
Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, Thailand
“The couple who will never tire of the glitz and glamour of a thriving metropolis will find no better hotel than the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park to say ‘I do.’ With spaces that offer panoramas of the glittering Bangkok skyline and ballrooms that exude contemporary elegance, the hotel is indeed an ideal option for couples like Roshni and Nikhil who wanted to marry in the heart of this Thai city.”
– Sashi Pawa of Shanaya Celebrations
Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa, Thailand
“A hotel managed by an internationally acclaimed hospitality brand, Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa is located at about a two and a half-hour drive away from the international airport in Bangkok. Be it the sophisticated indoor event spaces or outdoor venues such as an expansive lawn, a lush hilltop, and even a pristine beach, they have it all. At Talisha and Neil’s nuptials that we hosted here, the locations lent themselves seamlessly to the decor concepts, thus allowing us to give them a unique event each time.”
– Neha Mehrotra of Foreign Wedding Planners
Shangri-La Hotel Singapore
“The Shangri-La Hotel Singapore is a property that is perfect for a wedding that celebrates modern-day romance. We hosted Mili and Bharat’s festivities at the contemporary yet versatile venues of this hotel and were amazed to see how different themes and concepts fused effortlessly with the spaces.”
– Satish Punjabi of Impressario Inc.
Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
“An utterly stylish property in Malaysia’s capital city, the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur creates a dazzling setting for an Indian wedding that has services at par with the highest standards of international luxury. The hotel extends views of the glittering cityscapes from its venues and indulges its guests in superior comforts and cuisines, thus making celebrations here unforgettable.”
– Keshika Advani of Shehnaiyan Weddings
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, Vietnam
“An eclectic property that opens up a world of possibilities, the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa has a number of standout features such as its bright-hued building complex and a seashell-shaped swimming pool, amongst others. This 19th-century French university has now been converted into a swanky hotel.”
– Pramod Lunawat of Marriageuana
Furaveri Island Resort and Spa, Maldives
“The Maldives is a tropical paradise which has no dearth of gorgeous luxury hotels and resorts; however, there are few that come close to the beauty of Furaveri Island Resort and Spa. With venues overlooking aquamarine waters as well as lush greenery, this resort offers breathtaking settings for a couple’s big day.”
– Snehal Vadi of Laksh Events
Sofitel Mauritius L’Impérial Resort & Spa Hotel, Mauritius
“The Sofitel Mauritius L’Impérial Resort & Spa Hotel is where sophisticated interiors, lush gardens, and white sands set the most spellbinding stage for milestone celebrations such as a wedding. Combining unparalleled French luxury with the best of Mauritius’ native aesthetics and offerings, the hotel extends the best of international hospitality with an unmissable local appeal.”
– Aarti Mattoo of Momentum Experiences and Events LLP
Click here to discover venues and possibilities for celebrations across the globe.
Monika and Aseem had an opulent wedding at the enchanting terrace and gardens of the Laxmi Palace Heritage Boutique Hotel in Jaipur, Rajasthan. With the help of the bride’s sister, an interior designer, the wedding was orchestrated perfectly in just five days. Take a sneak peek into the glittering gala planned and executed by WeddingSutra Favorite – Weddings by Event Crafter. Using the property as a backdrop and inspiration for the decor, here’s how the team conceptualized and executed three grand events for this wedding.
The mehendi function was designed with a pink color palette. The terrace of the hotel was covered with delicate light pink gota strings and tassels hanging under a bright pink canopy of drapes. The soothing pink complemented the wintery mood of the of the day and made the mehendi decor look fresh and lively. The floral elements offered the perfect backdrop, and the cute pink tables enhanced the charm of the whole setting.
The cocktail night, held at the same terrace, was designed as a night full of stars. The environs gleamed bright with fairy lights, soft-lit crystal lamps and romantic candles, creating an enchanting ambiance. The golden decor that lit up the terrace exuded intimate elegance. The guests enjoyed every bit of the night and swayed to the tunes of musical acoustics while enjoying hookahs.
The grand dinner was held in an open lawn adorned with warm maroon and gold elements highlighting the royal backdrop of the palace. The venue was set ablaze with candles, green vines, chandeliers and royal shamadaans. The majestic staircase, decorated with red roses, made for the perfect backdrop under the magnificent sky, and a grand setting for the couple as they exchanged their garlands with pyro fireworks dramatizing the ceremony.
The perfect tablescapes were all about bespoke exquisiteness. The customized lampshades, flower vases, candle stands and handcrafted mosaic mirror work inspired by Thikari art added an element of sophistication. The fresh red rosebuds and tuberose sticks complemented the royal palette for the evening where the guests relished a regal feast with winning flavors and service.
Nestled within 15 hectares, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is a heavenly haven in the midst of the bustling Dubai city. With multiple customizable indoor and scenic outdoor venues, this five-star luxury hotel is a preferred option for destination weddings.
We got more insights on wedding planning, accommodation, and venues available from Linda Mwaffak, Director of Sales at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, who told us how the hotel stands out in comparison to others, and how this luxurious property is ideal for hosting a big, fabulous Indian wedding.
1. Couples want to work with teams who have a deep understanding of their culture and requirements. What kind of facilities can Indian/NRI couples expect at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre that make it a perfect choice for hosting Indian weddings?
“Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is the perfect one-stop-shop for Indian wedding festivities. We have one of the largest ballrooms in the Middle East, which can host over 1,500 guests, making it ideal for a big, fantastic wedding. The Great Ballroom is equipped with the latest audiovisual equipment supported by world standard technicians, providing the perfect facility to host extravagant themed musical events such as a sangeet night or a cocktail party. It has an onsite bridal suite, facilitating pre and post-wedding arrangements for the couple. Supported by 580 rooms, luxury suites, and smaller functional event spaces, it is ideal for hosting destination weddings and multiple functions under one roof. The hotel is staffed by over 50% nationals from the Indian Sub-continent, making it easy to communicate in the national language. A dedicated team in the banqueting department is assigned to the wedding party, and it is the single point of contact for planning and executing the functions, addressing the room inventory enquiries, and for making the Food and Beverages arrangements.”
2. With destination weddings being the biggest trend, how many Indian weddings have taken place at the property so far?
“Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is one of the leading event venues in Dubai to host Asian, Middle Eastern and Western expat weddings. In the last two years, over 50 Indian weddings have taken place successfully at the hotel.”
3. Having exceptionally luxurious and the grandest of ballrooms in the Middle East which are perfect for big, fabulous Indian weddings, how many guests can you accommodate in each ballroom? How compatible are they with the various and latest technology, decor needs and seating arrangements?
“Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre has several acclaimed wedding venues, which provide the perfect event spaces to host multiple functions characteristic of large-scale Indian weddings. The venues offer the flexibility to extend and divide the moveable partitions based on the wedding party’s requirements. The event space is entirely customizable with a round table seating arrangement and provision for the stage and a dance floor. The banqueting team works with the wedding party and event management company to tailor the event layout and decorations based on their requirements. The Great Ballroom can accommodate from 850 to 2,000 guests, the Wasl Ballroom can fit in 200 guests, and the Falcon Ballroom has space for 500 guests. All the ballrooms are equipped with the latest technology such as projection systems, A/V equipment, smoke machines and multimedia, which are managed by world-class technicians. We also work with a specialized audiovisual and lighting company to cater to the guest’s needs.”
4. Does the property have wedding planners and decorators on its panel who couples could work with? How open is the hotel about working with new or external teams that couples may prefer?
“Yes, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre has a dedicated team of specialists including wedding planners, decorators, and an A/V in-sourcing company available for the hosts to choose from. We are also completely flexible to work with the wedding party’s preferred specialist teams to address their discerning needs.”
5. An Indian wedding includes several rituals that may not be possible to conduct at a lot of international venues. Are there any restrictions or special arrangements that couples need to keep in mind when hosting a wedding there?
“Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is the perfect venue to host Indian festivities, as we have multiple event venues which can be customized for the bespoke requirements of various Indian functions. We can also accommodate the important Indian ritual of pheras indoors in the functional areas, or outdoors at the hotel garden.”
6. Food being the number one priority at Indian weddings, many communities prefer having vegetarian or vegan options on the menu. How comfortable are your chefs with preparing traditional vegetarian cuisine that will please Indian palettes?
“We have a team of specialized Indian chefs, who can prepare vegetarian meals to cater to the bespoke requirements of Indian communities, and regional cuisines to appeal to the specific palates of the North, South, East or West ethnicities from India. We are also open to collaborating with the wedding party’s preferred chefs and F&B venues to address specific needs.”
7. When planning a destination wedding, logistics and budgeting can become a tad bit tricky. What is the approximate budget that families should keep in mind when hosting a wedding at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre?
“The hotel can cater to wedding functions from as small as 25/30 guests to 2,000 guests at different price ranges based on the event spaces booked, set-up requirements, and attendee numbers. We have a variety of food and beverage menu options with different price points, to suit the budget of the wedding party.”
8. Dubai ranks at the top for couples looking for destination wedding options in the Middle East. What makes Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre different from other properties?
“The hotel is conveniently located next to the airport, making logistical arrangements easily available. It is also close to the Downtown area, yet away from the city’s hustle and bustle which makes it the perfect destination to host grand Indian weddings. It has 24 event spaces to cater to functions of variable attendance sizes, 580 well-equipped rooms and suites to house overseas guests, and 18 onsite restaurants and bars which offer multi-cultural cuisine options ranging from Chinese, Thai, Italian, Continental, Indian, Japanese, and more.”
Click here to explore the distinctive spaces at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre.
You can call them on +97142170000 or write to them at eventshub.lmdubai@lemeridien.com
Creative Producer Lauren Lavinger and director David Laven first crossed paths in high school. Sparks didn’t quite instantly fly between them until they were re-acquainted some years later in New York City. After dating for over 10 years, David popped the question to her, with his beloved great-grandmother’s ancestral ring.
On their hunt to find the perfect destination for their wedding, they visited Jamaica and instantly fell in love with this unsullied Island. The Rockhouse, a hotel placed on a perfect cliffside in Negril, with the mesmerizing view of the pristine blue waters made a perfect venue for their island wedding.
Since it was an island wedding, the dress code was ‘Island Formal’. The wedding saw an interesting combination of guests dressed up in tuxedos paired with hip sneakers, vibrant colored silk gowns, and some in see-through vintage pajama sets that stayed in tune with the theme.
The celebrations kicked off with a Welcome Dinner hosted by the couple for their guests. Lauren donned a vintage Alaïa gown for the event while David chose a cool-pearl peach kurta with a matching embroidered Nehru Jacket that he paired with sneakers.
The couple’s fathers are both Jewish. David’s mother is Indian and Hindu, and Lauren’s mother is Chamorro, a Catholic from Guam. So, they made the ceremony a multi-faith, non-denominational service. To honor David’s Indian heritage, they even performed the Saat Phere.
On their wedding day, the Chuppah had a tropical look and feel as it was made out of palm leaves, against the astonishing backdrop of the sparkling sea. The rain Gods had been kind and had ceased to give way to soft gray clouds overhead as the bride majestically walked down the aisle with her father. David’s face lit up as soon as he saw his bride arrive. He could not hold back his tears of joy.
The bride’s off-shoulder pearl-white vintage full-sleeve wedding gown was designed by none other than the famous Alexander Wang, who happens to be one of her oldest friends. Her wedding attire was simple yet classic. She drew her design influences from her style icon, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s wedding outfit and Hailey Bieber’s Met Gala look. David donned a white embroidered kurta with a white coat on top of it along with a traditional Jewish Kippah.
The sundowner wedding was followed by a reception and an after-party by the poolside, with lots of merry dancing and fireworks. The live band performed dancehall music closing with reggae rendition of the Hora. The party was then amplified by foot-tapping music. The couple hit the dance floor and surprised their guests with a choreographed Bollywood number they had been practicing for months.
Throughout the event that day, Lauren went from her custom Alexander Wang gown to a classy red Alaia dress, to a Givenchy see-through pearl dress to a matching custom-made ‘Just Married’ t-shirt, and finally, an after pool-party bathing suit giving an apt finale for a day well celebrated.
The next day, as all the wedding revelries ended, the newlyweds and their guests spent their day dipping in the ocean and creating some photo-worthy moments followed by some well-deserved relaxation by the poolside.
A truly tropical end to a truly grand wedding!
Venue: The Rockhouse, Jamaica Wedding Planners: Alecia Lici Eastwood & Shanique Montague Bride’s Outfits: Alexander Wang (Wedding), Alaïa & Givenchy (After Party) Accessories: Art Of Your Mind Custom Outfits: Art Of Your Mind Bridal Bouquet: Happy Isles Entertainment: Silver Birds Steel Drum Band, DJ Amrit, Taurus Riley Band Photography: Kristen Marie Parker
The wedding day is the biggest, most special occasion of one’s life.
For brothers Ashok and Chandan, the bounty of their joy doubled with a spectacular double wedding that unfolded at the exotic Aamby Valley City. Having found their soulmates together, they envisioned the celebration of a lifetime, and their dream wedding was brought to life with incomparable grandeur by WeddingSutra Favorite – 7X Weddings. As the two exuberant couples reveled in the festivities, their moments were eternalized by WeddingSutra Favorite – Priyam Parikh Pictures.
When the two brothers decided on embarking upon their respective new lives together, they had a clear vision of what they wanted for their wedding. They shared, “Getting the honor to tie the knot alongside your brother is a rare thing, and we wanted our celebration to be unforgettable and nothing less than a royal gala. Finding the right planner is of utmost importance to have the wedding of your dreams, and Rajat Sogani and Devang Shah of 7X-Weddings exceeded all our expectations. They handled every single aspect of the wedding from the word go and executed every idea and theme that was conceptualized by our sisters Asha and Usha to perfection. They worked so deftly that we were able to enjoy our planning period with our respective spouses peacefully”.
They further shared, “The hospitality that we received at Aamby Valley City was beyond comparison, and the serene backdrops and ambience were absolute heaven. Apart from conceptualizing our events, our sisters Asha and Usha, under their prominent fashion label Anaya, also curated our wardrobes in accordance with the theme of every event, making it all a superlative, unique and picturesque affair.”
Pool Party
The first day was decked for the fun and frolic of the navy themed pool party. The couples were twinning in custom designed blue toned outfits. The DJ set the mood by kick-starting the beautiful celebrations with some upbeat tunes that had everyone grooving on the dance floor. With a marine inspired decor of anchor signs and other Navy related memorabilia, the function boasted of a fresh concept with a cool, modern twist.
Sangeet
The sangeet was spectacularly designed to make everyone feel like they had walked into a star-studded gala. A stunning disco-ball setup welcomed one to the grand hall lit with choreographed lighting solutions and a massive stage. From the young ones and the parents of the to-be-weds, to the couples’ themselves rocking the dance floor made it a night to remember for all those who witnessed the marvel.
Mehek-e-Lucknowi
As everyone checked into the Aamby Valley Resort, the first event welcomed the guests in true Nawabi style. The enchanting performance of the Sufi dancers beckoned everyone into the magical ambience, peppered with purple and gold. Authentic qawwali entertainers followed the performance, serenading the guests as they enjoyed the delectable fare. The couples and their guests were dressed in beautiful tones of violet and pink as they swayed to the magical experience. It was a beautiful sundowner event for all who were present there.
Wedding
The day of the grand wedding was much awaited. Everyone waited in fervent anticipation of the celebrations to come. The ethereal decor left everyone awestruck as they entered through the Victorian inspired passage decorated aesthetically with vintage chandeliers. The pièce de résistance was the mandir setup for the varmala ceremonies. The grooms were decked handsomely in off-white soft sherwanis while the brides looked like a dream in crimson red lehengas and stunning jewelry that made for a great mélange. Fireworks and the melody of shehnai synchronized together as they set forth a magical ambience beyond compare.
The Wedding Makers
Venue: Amby Valley City Wedding Planner:7X Weddings Grooms’ Outfits: Anaya Fashion Luxuries (Lucknowi, Pool Party, Wedding), Gaurav Gupta (Sangeet) Brides’ Outfits: Anaya Fashion Luxuries (Lucknowi, Sangeet, Pool Party), Omprakash Jawaharlal (Wedding) Catering: TGS Foodz Photography and Videography:Priyam Parikh Pictures
Monika and Aseem had an opulent wedding at the enchanting terrace and gardens of the Laxmi Palace Heritage Boutique Hotel in Jaipur, Rajasthan. With the help of the bride’s sister, an interior designer, the wedding was orchestrated perfectly in just five days. Take a sneak peek into the glittering gala planned and executed by WeddingSutra Favorite – Weddings by Event Crafter. Using the property as a backdrop and inspiration for the decor, here’s how the team conceptualized and executed three grand events for this wedding.
The mehendi function was designed with a pink color palette. The terrace of the hotel was covered with delicate light pink gota strings and tassels hanging under a bright pink canopy of drapes. The soothing pink complemented the wintery mood of the of the day and made the mehendi decor look fresh and lively. The floral elements offered the perfect backdrop, and the cute pink tables enhanced the charm of the whole setting.
The cocktail night, held at the same terrace, was designed as a night full of stars. The environs gleamed bright with fairy lights, soft-lit crystal lamps and romantic candles, creating an enchanting ambiance. The golden decor that lit up the terrace exuded intimate elegance. The guests enjoyed every bit of the night and swayed to the tunes of musical acoustics while enjoying hookahs.
The grand dinner was held in an open lawn adorned with warm maroon and gold elements highlighting the royal backdrop of the palace. The venue was set ablaze with candles, green vines, chandeliers and royal shamadaans. The majestic staircase, decorated with red roses, made for the perfect backdrop under the magnificent sky, and a grand setting for the couple as they exchanged their garlands with pyro fireworks dramatizing the ceremony.
The perfect tablescapes were all about bespoke exquisiteness. The customized lampshades, flower vases, candle stands and handcrafted mosaic mirror work inspired by Thikari art added an element of sophistication. The fresh red rosebuds and tuberose sticks complemented the royal palette for the evening where the guests relished a regal feast with winning flavors and service.
Nestled within 15 hectares, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is a heavenly haven in the midst of the bustling Dubai city. With multiple customizable indoor and scenic outdoor venues, this five-star luxury hotel is a preferred option for destination weddings.
We got more insights on wedding planning, accommodation, and venues available from Linda Mwaffak, Director of Sales at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, who told us how the hotel stands out in comparison to others, and how this luxurious property is ideal for hosting a big, fabulous Indian wedding.
1. Couples want to work with teams who have a deep understanding of their culture and requirements. What kind of facilities can Indian/NRI couples expect at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre that make it a perfect choice for hosting Indian weddings?
“Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is the perfect one-stop-shop for Indian wedding festivities. We have one of the largest ballrooms in the Middle East, which can host over 1,500 guests, making it ideal for a big, fantastic wedding. The Great Ballroom is equipped with the latest audiovisual equipment supported by world standard technicians, providing the perfect facility to host extravagant themed musical events such as a sangeet night or a cocktail party. It has an onsite bridal suite, facilitating pre and post-wedding arrangements for the couple. Supported by 580 rooms, luxury suites, and smaller functional event spaces, it is ideal for hosting destination weddings and multiple functions under one roof. The hotel is staffed by over 50% nationals from the Indian Sub-continent, making it easy to communicate in the national language. A dedicated team in the banqueting department is assigned to the wedding party, and it is the single point of contact for planning and executing the functions, addressing the room inventory enquiries, and for making the Food and Beverages arrangements.”
2. With destination weddings being the biggest trend, how many Indian weddings have taken place at the property so far?
“Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is one of the leading event venues in Dubai to host Asian, Middle Eastern and Western expat weddings. In the last two years, over 50 Indian weddings have taken place successfully at the hotel.”
3. Having exceptionally luxurious and the grandest of ballrooms in the Middle East which are perfect for big, fabulous Indian weddings, how many guests can you accommodate in each ballroom? How compatible are they with the various and latest technology, decor needs and seating arrangements?
“Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre has several acclaimed wedding venues, which provide the perfect event spaces to host multiple functions characteristic of large-scale Indian weddings. The venues offer the flexibility to extend and divide the moveable partitions based on the wedding party’s requirements. The event space is entirely customizable with a round table seating arrangement and provision for the stage and a dance floor. The banqueting team works with the wedding party and event management company to tailor the event layout and decorations based on their requirements. The Great Ballroom can accommodate from 850 to 2,000 guests, the Wasl Ballroom can fit in 200 guests, and the Falcon Ballroom has space for 500 guests. All the ballrooms are equipped with the latest technology such as projection systems, A/V equipment, smoke machines and multimedia, which are managed by world-class technicians. We also work with a specialized audiovisual and lighting company to cater to the guest’s needs.”
4. Does the property have wedding planners and decorators on its panel who couples could work with? How open is the hotel about working with new or external teams that couples may prefer?
“Yes, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre has a dedicated team of specialists including wedding planners, decorators, and an A/V in-sourcing company available for the hosts to choose from. We are also completely flexible to work with the wedding party’s preferred specialist teams to address their discerning needs.”
5. An Indian wedding includes several rituals that may not be possible to conduct at a lot of international venues. Are there any restrictions or special arrangements that couples need to keep in mind when hosting a wedding there?
“Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is the perfect venue to host Indian festivities, as we have multiple event venues which can be customized for the bespoke requirements of various Indian functions. We can also accommodate the important Indian ritual of pheras indoors in the functional areas, or outdoors at the hotel garden.”
6. Food being the number one priority at Indian weddings, many communities prefer having vegetarian or vegan options on the menu. How comfortable are your chefs with preparing traditional vegetarian cuisine that will please Indian palettes?
“We have a team of specialized Indian chefs, who can prepare vegetarian meals to cater to the bespoke requirements of Indian communities, and regional cuisines to appeal to the specific palates of the North, South, East or West ethnicities from India. We are also open to collaborating with the wedding party’s preferred chefs and F&B venues to address specific needs.”
7. When planning a destination wedding, logistics and budgeting can become a tad bit tricky. What is the approximate budget that families should keep in mind when hosting a wedding at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre?
“The hotel can cater to wedding functions from as small as 25/30 guests to 2,000 guests at different price ranges based on the event spaces booked, set-up requirements, and attendee numbers. We have a variety of food and beverage menu options with different price points, to suit the budget of the wedding party.”
8. Dubai ranks at the top for couples looking for destination wedding options in the Middle East. What makes Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre different from other properties?
“The hotel is conveniently located next to the airport, making logistical arrangements easily available. It is also close to the Downtown area, yet away from the city’s hustle and bustle which makes it the perfect destination to host grand Indian weddings. It has 24 event spaces to cater to functions of variable attendance sizes, 580 well-equipped rooms and suites to house overseas guests, and 18 onsite restaurants and bars which offer multi-cultural cuisine options ranging from Chinese, Thai, Italian, Continental, Indian, Japanese, and more.”
Click here to explore the distinctive spaces at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre.
You can call them on +97142170000 or write to them at eventshub.lmdubai@lemeridien.com
Creative Producer Lauren Lavinger and director David Laven first crossed paths in high school. Sparks didn’t quite instantly fly between them until they were re-acquainted some years later in New York City. After dating for over 10 years, David popped the question to her, with his beloved great-grandmother’s ancestral ring.
On their hunt to find the perfect destination for their wedding, they visited Jamaica and instantly fell in love with this unsullied Island. The Rockhouse, a hotel placed on a perfect cliffside in Negril, with the mesmerizing view of the pristine blue waters made a perfect venue for their island wedding.
Since it was an island wedding, the dress code was ‘Island Formal’. The wedding saw an interesting combination of guests dressed up in tuxedos paired with hip sneakers, vibrant colored silk gowns, and some in see-through vintage pajama sets that stayed in tune with the theme.
The celebrations kicked off with a Welcome Dinner hosted by the couple for their guests. Lauren donned a vintage Alaïa gown for the event while David chose a cool-pearl peach kurta with a matching embroidered Nehru Jacket that he paired with sneakers.
The couple’s fathers are both Jewish. David’s mother is Indian and Hindu, and Lauren’s mother is Chamorro, a Catholic from Guam. So, they made the ceremony a multi-faith, non-denominational service. To honor David’s Indian heritage, they even performed the Saat Phere.
On their wedding day, the Chuppah had a tropical look and feel as it was made out of palm leaves, against the astonishing backdrop of the sparkling sea. The rain Gods had been kind and had ceased to give way to soft gray clouds overhead as the bride majestically walked down the aisle with her father. David’s face lit up as soon as he saw his bride arrive. He could not hold back his tears of joy.
The bride’s off-shoulder pearl-white vintage full-sleeve wedding gown was designed by none other than the famous Alexander Wang, who happens to be one of her oldest friends. Her wedding attire was simple yet classic. She drew her design influences from her style icon, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s wedding outfit and Hailey Bieber’s Met Gala look. David donned a white embroidered kurta with a white coat on top of it along with a traditional Jewish Kippah.
The sundowner wedding was followed by a reception and an after-party by the poolside, with lots of merry dancing and fireworks. The live band performed dancehall music closing with reggae rendition of the Hora. The party was then amplified by foot-tapping music. The couple hit the dance floor and surprised their guests with a choreographed Bollywood number they had been practicing for months.
Throughout the event that day, Lauren went from her custom Alexander Wang gown to a classy red Alaia dress, to a Givenchy see-through pearl dress to a matching custom-made ‘Just Married’ t-shirt, and finally, an after pool-party bathing suit giving an apt finale for a day well celebrated.
The next day, as all the wedding revelries ended, the newlyweds and their guests spent their day dipping in the ocean and creating some photo-worthy moments followed by some well-deserved relaxation by the poolside.
A truly tropical end to a truly grand wedding!
Venue: The Rockhouse, Jamaica Wedding Planners: Alecia Lici Eastwood & Shanique Montague Bride’s Outfits: Alexander Wang (Wedding), Alaïa & Givenchy (After Party) Accessories: Art Of Your Mind Custom Outfits: Art Of Your Mind Bridal Bouquet: Happy Isles Entertainment: Silver Birds Steel Drum Band, DJ Amrit, Taurus Riley Band Photography: Kristen Marie Parker
Mohit Marwah and Antara Motiwala
Mehndi at the serene setting of Cabana Lawns
Sangeet at the Al Fayrouz beach front
Sehra Bandhi at the glamorous Camelia Lounge
Cocktails and Dinner at the Al Fayrouz Poolside overlooking the beach
