3 minute read
Khushbu & Dhrudeep
Sara Gardner Photography
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Sometimes a connection is eternal and predestined, the kind that happens all of a sudden and heralds a new beginning. The bonding between Khushbu and Dr. Dhrudeep was just like that. It all began with Instagram, followed by a long Facetime chat.
Through these virtual interactions, the duo discovered the common thread of compatibility between them. They began dating and finally, Dhrudeep proposed to Khushbu on a trip to Miami. Khushbu knew that she would marry Shiv (Dhrudeep), however, the proposal was exciting and pleasing for her.
And then the preparations for the marriage between the lady accountant and the handsome doctor began. They did not hire a wedding planner; instead, the enthusiastic couple did all the preparatory work. The marriage date was fixed on May 28, 2022. Khushbu wanted the ceremony to be held at her home, in the backyard, and both the bride and her groom wanted a small and simple wedding ceremony. However, starting with only 50 guests, the list grew bigger, reaching 140!
Shiv’s parents are based in Canada and his brother is in India. With the longer guest list the couple decided the wedding venue would be the Peoria Hindu Temple in Illinois, close to Khushu’s home. Pre-wedding ceremonies of Mehndi, Gruh Pooja and Pithi were celebrated at Khushbu’s home and backyard. Mehndi was a close family affair, with the bride pampering herself with a warm gettogether and dancing. Gruh Puja had traditional and minimalistic décor with marigolds. The Puja was observed for both Khushbu and Shiv. Pithi or Haldi, too, was celebrated by the couple at the bride’s home.
The wedding took place in the morning and the couple wanted only natural flowers for décor. Since it was outside, on the lawn of the Hindu Temple, they used pastel-shaded florals to contrast with the lawn’s natural greens. Khushbu had two entries: one to welcome her groom and exchange garlands, and the other, a ceremonial entry. For the first entry, she climbed down beautiful steps accompanied by her niece. The ceremonial entry was with phoolon ki chadar, the floral canopy held by brothers and grandparents, and with pictures of her departed grandparents
accompanying her. Her aunts held their palms for their beloved girl. Music was a blend of popular Bollywood songs along with Gujarati songs. The stage was open, illuminated by natural lights and with Moroccan poufs and low chairs.
The reception party in the evening was full of surprises and fun. Khushbu’s in-laws put up a surprise performance to welcome her. Her brothers and sisters also danced for her and there was a speech about her childhood given by her sister.
The couple kept it minimal and enjoyed every moment of the ceremonies. It was a thoroughly wonderful event to begin their journey together.
Vendors
BANQUET HALLS Hindu Temple Of Central Illinois 309-671-5668 www.hinduheritage.wildapricot.org
CATERING Purohit Caterers 630-881-8156
DECORATOR Create a Scene Events 309-745-5440 www.createasceneevents.com
VIDEOGRAPHY Steve Weber Films 217-248-1580 www.steveweberfilms.com
Photos Courtesy
Sara Gardner Photography 217-553-9368
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