Spring + Summer 2016

SPRING/SUMMER 2016 print/digital

BE DARING

BE DIFFERENT

photography: Maloman Photography

hair . makeup . nails www.michelereneethestudio.com info@michelereneethestudio.com 813.531.7770

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I want to express my sincerest gratitude to all those who contribute to help create South Asian Bride Magazine. The brilliant event coordinators, designers, decorators, florists, lighting specialists and of course the photographers.

Thank you to all the brides and grooms who support us, share their memories with us and use SAB as their guide in their wedding planning process. We strive to live up to your expectations each and every time.

--Sadaf H. Kherani, Publisher | Editor in Chief Credit: RAGartistry, | www.ragartistry.com, Make-up: Nalani Bott, Location: Biltmore Ballrooms

photography // D iina D ouglass , A ndrena P hotography floral ar tistry // S hawna Y amamoto of S hawna Y amamoto E vent D esign hair + makeup // J eannie J effries , C outure B eauty T eam venue // M alabar C oast L iving cover fashion // D reams C ollection cover jewelry // F rontier H eritage model // O lyea S hah

SOUTH ASIAN BRIDE MAGAZINE, INC. info@southasianbridemagazine.com

ADVERTISING: 404.591.4142 | 888.956.6661 Copyright South Asian Magazine, Inc. No material herein or portions thereof may be reprinted without the consent of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. Views/Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the paper and no liability is assumed by the publisher thereof. Advertising copy and artwork are the sole responsibility of individual advertisers.

SHOP AT: www.southasianbridemagazine.com

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For more information, contact one of our wedding planners at 770-955-8000 or visit cobbgalleria.com.

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Pure Emotions Photography

THE PERFECT PLACE TO START YOUR JOURNEY TOGETHER Welcome to Hilton Orlando, a magnificent AAA Four Diamond AwardÂŽ winning resort, with the mission to turn your vision from dream to reality. This spectacular resort features venues perfect for private Baraat locations, breathtaking indoor & outdoor ceremony options and three grand ballrooms to meet all of your needs. From engagement parties to traditional ceremonies to elaborate receptions, you will enjoy the comfort and convenience of hosting your celebration in one fabulous location.

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6001 Destination Parkway I Orlando, Florida, 32819 | ORLOC_Weddings@hilton.com | 407-313-8458 | thehiltonorlando.com/weddings

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BALANCING BOLLYWOOD ACCESSORIES & BEAUTY

Beauty maestro Karuna Chani, shows us how to balance our favorite statement jewelry with equally 'show-stopping' beauty. Never too much, and always in balance, Karuna created five stunning looks, on model Nilisha Patel. Some breaking Hindu 'rules' like wearing white for your wedding and others embodying all things romance, through the simplicity of a well placed pearl tikka, a blush outfit, ruby lips and kohl lined eyes. If this story doesn't inspire your makeup looks for the rest of the year, we don't know what will!

photography // T ara S harma hair/makeup // KC M akeup by K aruna C hani stylist // K ollin C arter venue // C rystal C lub W embley video // B rian C hoy model // N ilisha P atel of MSA M odel A gency 20 southasianbridemagazine.com

outfit // K aruna C hani private collection necklaces // S urana J ewelers of J aipur tikka // H ouse of M arigold N ew D elhi , I ndia

mint & pearls tunic // CTC M all , N ew D elhi , I ndia tulle skirt // E tsy crystal/pearl tiara // E tsy

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outfit // E voluzione B outique in N ew D elhi , I ndia earrings // H ouse of M arigold N ew D elhi , I ndia

lehnga // P ayal S inghal necklace // S urana J ewellers of J aipur headpiece // ouse of M arigold N ew D elhi , I ndia 24 southasianbridemagazine.com

headpiece // H ouse

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LOS ANGELES . TORONTO

www.frontierheritage.com (562) 653-9396 // (905) 796-0600

braja mandala photography

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braja mandala photography

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D ĂŠcor | F loral | F abric | L ighting | F abrication Facebook / Pinterest / Instagram: @OBSevents

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691 N. Cass Avenue Westmont, IL 60559 630.777.4133 630.468.2869 www.charismaindia.com

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NINA + SAM JAIPUR, INDIA // BRAJA MANDALA PHOTOGRAPHY Almost two years ago, Sam proposed to me at the Adler Planetarium against the Chicago skyline. It was right after he proposed that we started researching ideas and plans for our dream wedding. Throughout the process, we spent many nights online looking for inspiration and my vision blossomed when I came across what looked like a bride and groom posing in a Vogue photo with an elephant’s trunk wrapped around their bodies. The instant I saw that photo, I knew that was what I wanted to come to life for Sam and I. After spending endless hours researching potential vendors for our dream wedding, I came across Braja Mandala’s website with what feels like fate. The first thing that caught my attention about her work was her experience with elephants and her ability to capture them so effortlessly in her photos. It was a fairytale of mine to have an engagement photo session in Jaipur, specifically because I had always dreamed of visiting a place filled with such beautiful architecture and Sam’s childhood growing up in Rajasthan would bring back many nostalgic memories.

After getting to know Braja a few moments on the phone, we realized that this fairytale of an engagement shoot would be possible.

Interestingly enough, when I described to Braja the Vogue photo, she knew exactly what I was talking about. From the royal outfits to the painted elephants, we both knew that this was something we just had to recreate in Jaipur. When shopping for both Sam’s outfits, and mine we looked for something that would mirror a typical Maharaja and Maharani, as if we were a king and queen living in Amer Fort. I specifically wanted to tie in the color red because it symbolizes my wedding outfit and Sam’s Rajasthani pagri beautifully contrasted with the royal architecture in the background.

Sam and I could not be more thankful for our experience in Jaipur with Braja and her husband Gene. In the two months spent in India wedding shopping, the most touching and soul-fulfilling moments were when we shot with the elephants. Not only were we able to recreate a vision that Sam and I wanted, but also it surpassed our wildest dreams when the elephants were up close and hugging us with their trunks. When the painters asked if we wanted to paint anything on the elephants, I had the idea of painting our hashtag #Patwani and it was the perfect touch to such a magical day. This experience would not have been possible with anyone else and we are so thankful and touched to have the opportunity to work with such a wonderful team. Braja’s love for the Indian culture and her willingness to go great lengths to capture our love story is something that Sam and I will forever cherish.

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THE

ethereal GARDEN

by M ani J assal photography // I rvin S idhu stylist/designer // M ani J assal hair + mua // RAV B B eauty C oncepts model // A man S andhu 42 southasianbridemagazine.com

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World

A

of

POSSIBILITIES Make it a wedding weekend getaway: Learn more about our exclusive spa packages, world-class Legacy Golf Course, renowned lakeside restaurants... and so much more!

Set upon the shores of stunning Lake Sidney Lanier, nestled in the foothills of North Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Lanier Islands is the epitome of romance.

With the magnificent lake views and luxurious accommodations, you will feel worlds away, while staying conveniently close to home. Lanier Islands Weddings provides a breathtaking backdrop for memories that will last a lifetime.

7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford, GA 30518 770.945.8787 • www.LanierIslands.com

Call one of our wedding consultants today! southasianbridemagazine.com 47

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VINTAGE glamour

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photography // J oy M arie P hotography planning+design // E xquisite E vents linen // W ildflower L inen flowers // W hite L ilac I nc . rentals // C lassic P arty R entalsv venue // H ummingbird R anch model // M adiha K han southasianbridemagazine.com 49

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get

glowing photography // JSK Photography mua + hair // P reet - G litz and G lamour S tudio wardrobe // W ellgroomed I nc . jewelry // E vocature henna // N eeta S harma - M ehndi D esigner decor // R&R E vent R entals model // M anpreet T oor

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Raaste ki Rani photography // A&A P hoto +V ideo planning+coordination // KIS C ubed E vents , H ouston decor+floral+clothing // P rashe mua + hair // B ridal E lements by N irjary D esai jewelry // A nokhi A da bangles // B ig B angle T heory

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ERUM + UMAR LOS ANGELES, CA // LIN & JIRSA PHOTOGRAPHY + AJITA CHOPRA EVENTS Erum and Umar met while in college at UCLA. Erum secretly wished to be a Bollywood movie heroine, but was studying to become a doctor. Umar was going to be a hot-shot businessman, but secretly loved watching Bollywood movies. Inevitably, the two finally met during their second year through a mutual friend during culture show dance practice. First impressions: Umar was a little too cool with overdone swag. Erum was a straight Fob Champion. Umar was the social butterfly of the team, always organizing parties and dinners, and Erum remained weary of him because of his flirtatious knack with the ladies. After many months, Umar was finally able to convince Erum to at least be friends with him. In fact, he told her that they would be best friends some day. Erum laughed at this and thought, that could never happen. We were so different.

Eventually, after many walks, Sprinkles cupcake bribes, and dinners, Erum finally became Umar's best friend. He would ask her about everything, especially her thoughts on various girls he was interested in. One day, Erum realized she had developed feelings for Umar when he was asking for her advice about pursuing another girl. But she told him to follow his heart, as a diehard Bollywood fan would.

As the days went by, Erum knew that she couldn't keep her feelings a secret any longer. After all, Umar had also become her best friend, but she was afraid to admit it.

One night after a friend's birthday party at Erum's apartment, Umar was helping her clean up the place by vacuuming and taking out the trash. She finally built up the courage and told him about her feelings. He seemed shocked. For a few seconds, he was quiet and Erum was worried that maybe she shouldn't have said anything at all. Umar then broke his silence and told her (in typical Bollywood style) that he felt she was too good for him and he didn't want to lose her. That was the beginning of their love story.

As college ended, they had grown so much together and it was time to begin the long distance chapter of their relationship as Erum started medical school in Irvine, California and Umar decided he would pursue his business interests in Dubai. Fast forward a few years, they survived through the 12-hour time difference and 8,337 miles of distance, when Umar finally asked Erum to marry him on August 10, 2013. It was the most elaborate Bollywood inspired proposal involving an all-day scavenger hunt with dances, games, and all of their friends in matching T-shirts ending with Umar waiting on one knee with the sun setting behind him on the beach in Santa Monica, California. It was the perfect proposal! And thus began their happily ever after... southasianbridemagazine.com 61

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-weddingphotographer // L in & J irsa P hotography planner // A jita C hopra E vents decor // S hawn a Y amamoto E vent D esign rentals // CMC P arty R entals video // A vec L umiere catering // S3 C atering & J ay B harat venue // H yat t R egency , L os A ngeles baraat // E nchanted C arriages

-receptionphotographer // L in & J irsa P hotography planner // K evin C ovey decor // S qu are R oot D esigns light, sound // 3D S ounds video // A vec L umiere cake // A W hish & a W hisk stationar y // I nvite I nk venue // S t . R egis M on arch B each R esort southasianbridemagazine.com 65

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NISHA + EMIL RALEIGH, NC // MATEI HORVATH PHOTOGRAPHY + DESIGN HOUSE DECOR Their story began two years after their first brief introduction. Although they had met for a moment at Emil’s birthday party, they had to wait two years until their second and last introduction. A close mutual friend saw similarities in them as individuals and thought they would make a great match. After a witty introduction, their unforgettable journey began. In Nisha’s usual cautious manner, she insisted on first exchanging emails. However this quickly snowballed into hour long phone conversations and finally that first date.

Nisha skipped out of a rehearsal dinner to meet up with Emil. Little did she know that escaping one wedding event would pave the wave to her own nuptials. Their date started with an omakase dinner at Sushi of Gari followed by old fashioneds at Highlands in the West Village. Conversation was comfortable as they easily engaged in both light hearted and deep topics. With time Nisha looked beyond Emil’s corny humor and found in him a genuine and caring man. Meanwhile, Emil found in Nisha a breathtaking woman with a generous heart and willingness to laugh at his bad jokes.

Emil’s proposal was almost ruined by a grade 4 hurricane headed towards DC. A month before his planned engagement, he created an email thread inviting friends to a fictitious party at the Dumbarton Oaks. As the weekend approached, the unexpected hurricane loomed over his plans. Luckily, 99% of the meteorologists were wrong and the storm veered east. Nisha entered the garden expecting a crowd and found romantic seclusion as Emil poured his heart into his proposal. Luckily, she said yes. As she soaked in the moment, they wandered the many secluded and unique gardens to find their families awaiting to surprise and celebrate with them. However, one more surprise awaiting Nisha as the weekend came to an end, Emil whisked her away with a trip to Napa for rest, relaxation and more celebration.

The wedding planning was unforgettable and probably something neither Nisha or Emil would like to relive. After finding the perfect vendors and preparing for the special day, they were informed that the remodeled venue would not be ready six weeks before the wedding. Stress levels reached an all time high as they raced to find a backup venue. Luckily though the hotel, against all odds, finished literally in the nick of time. In fact, the driveway and entrance were opened to guests two days before the wedding. The couple had unsure expectations but the sangeet, ceremony and reception were beyond perfect. Working with Design House Decor was calming. A few conversations and brainstorming with the lead designer and she simply said “trust me.” Those were the words we needed to hear. When we walked into each event, we were as surprised as our guests to find the stunning decor that we wished we could have imagined. The food for each event was catered by Moghul and was absolutely delicious. Lastly, we couldn’t have had such a flawless weekend without the meticulous attention to detail of our planner, Ace of Events. Throughout the process and the wedding weekend, Emil and Nisha always understood that the wedding is made beautiful by the love shared by their family and friends, and the outpouring of love they felt that weekend was heartwarming and overwhelming. southasianbridemagazine.com 67

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photographer // M atei H or vath P hotography design+decor // D esign H ouse D ecor planner // A ni S andhu from A ce of E vents invitations // A rtys P aper H eritage makeup // S usmita P atel music // S andeep H ans catering // M oghul venue // M arriot t C rabtree V alley video // H ope M edia

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PRITAL + TANVIR NEW JERSEY, NY // SY PHOTOGRAPHY + BRIDAL ARTS AND EVENTS We first met in the 4th grade class of PS 131 located in Sunset park Brooklyn, NY when Tanvir moved to this school. After 6th grade graduation we lost touch. Unbeknownst to each other, we only lived 10 blocks away however always seeming to take opposite routes to school and later work. Through the magic of Facebook our 6th grade class had a reunion in 2009 and we reconnected. By hanging out with the same circle of friends several times after and Tanvir cleverly suggested that since we live so close we should just take one car. Soon it was apparent that we had similar interests especially for dining and traveling to a different country each year. We’ve been together officially since June 2010.

When it came to planning our wedding we wanted to pay homage to our roots. As the eldest children in both families and also being 1st generation Americans we always had to find a balance growing up between traditional Indian and American ways. So our wedding was true to both cultures, a mix of American and Desi culture. Prital’s ceremony dress was an American white gown with lace accents but showcased mehndi and 22k gold jewelry. While Tanvir wore a handsome all black with paisleys indo western Sherwani. For the reception we switched it up and Prital wore a custom made lacha style lengha gown and Tanvir a dapper 3 piece tailored suit. The wedding theme was peacock without it being over emphasized just having elements like the décor colors, peacock feathers at each plate setting. Other infused elements were masala chai tea and local honey wedding favors. Food featured a leg of lamb carving station as well fusion sushi along Indian classics like raj kachori, tandoori chicken and shrimp curry and of course mango lassi. The DJ music again was mix encompassing the sounds we grew up with in the neighborhood, hindi, top 40, reggae, hip hop, Spanish and even some oldies for the parents all beating to the dohl players and showcased by a Bollywood dancer.

We were really fortunate to have wonderful wedding planners who took our vision and materialized it in the vendors they presented.

It was truly the most memorable and all of our family and guests enjoyed themselves thoroughly and already contemplating an anniversary party.

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photographer // S yed Y aqeen SYP hotography design+decor // D esign H ouse D ecor planner // B ridal A rts and E vents dhol // R aj D affu makeup // S anj an a V aswani music // J ason J ani at SCE E vents catering // M oghul venue // T he P alace at S omerset P ark video // J oseph M in asi W eddings car riage // D ream H orse C arriage

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PRIANCA + MEELAN R OCKLEIGH, NJ // JASHIM JALAL STUDIOS + SONAL J. SHAH EVENTS

Prianca and Meelan met on the Fourth of July in 2014 in Manhattan. As they walked the streets of the East Village, fireworks exploded in the air as well as in their hearts. They met on the dating website, OKCupid and quickly learned they shared a passion for good food, live music, and international travel. Within a month, Meelan knew that he had found his future wife. Prianca had always wanted to go to Thailand, so Meelan took her there. Little did she know what was in store for her upon their arrival. Meelan planned a surprise excursion to the Island of Yao Noi. He hired a private boat, took her all around the gorgeous Thai Islands, and in the middle of a secluded lagoon, asked Prianca to marry him. Of course the answer was YES! Pre-wedding ceremonies included their Vidhis and a Mehndi night, which took place at the Park Ridge Marriott in Park Ridge, NJ. Their vidhis were spiritual, more serious events during the day, done separately by each individual family, while the mehndi night united both sides and transformed that day into a playful, capricious evening. The grand ballroom was filled with electric blues, pinks, oranges, and greens. The bride and groom envisioned a festive ambience, which Design House emulated with umbrellas and lanterns.

Sonali’s Dance Company performed and motivated the crowd to dance; although there were few non-dancers present throughout the weekend. Entertainment was also provided by various booths including a lipstick reader, thumbprint reader, henna artist, photobooth, and flash tattoo station. A diverse assortment of ethnic stations including Indo-Chinese, Mediterranean kabobs, chaat, and Gujurati food lined the perimeter of the ballroom. Meelan’s family led everyone in their tradition of garba and the night finished off with a dance-off between the bride’s side and the groom’s side.

The couple got married at the Rockleigh Country Club, in Rockleigh, New Jersey on April 2, 2016. Prianca and Meelan chose the Rockleigh because of its scenery and its reputation for impeccable service. They wanted to get married outside, but were not finding summer availability. Hence, they needed to find an indoor space that would capture an outdoor feel. The Rockleigh Country Club’s Bristol Foyer, lined with grand floor to ceiling windows with a lovely fountain in the background, did just that.

Prianca and Meelan wanted an ethereal, unique, but whimsical atmosphere that would have their guests talking. The aisle was clean, with tree branches lining both sides. The mandap was lush with plenty of branches and just enough florals and greenery to create a sense of romance. In keeping with the traditions of both sets of parents, the ceremony had both Marathi and Gujurati culture, but was a reflection of the couple as well. The spirit of the couple shone through their pandit cracking jokes to keep the audience engaged, their recitation of their own vows, and their yelling in excitement after officially getting married.

In the evening, cocktail hour was sumptuous with mainly Western influence. Guests were treated to a wide spread of appetizers including caviar, carving stations, sushi, an ice luge, and much more. They had a video booth outside of the reception with a red carpet on which guests could leave a video memento for the couple to hear. The reception took place in a chandelier-filled grand ballroom with moss elephants on the four main gold rectangular tables surrounding the dance floor. The stage had a customized background with sparkly filigrees behind the couple. Of course, details were of the utmost importance at this lavish event. The couple thanked guests for coming with a customized card that hung off the opening toast champagne flutes, left bathroom signs in both restrooms telling people to come back and dance, and had napkins at cocktail hour incorporating their wedding hashtag. Prianca and Meelan wanted to venture outside the norm of a standard Indian buffet, so Moghul worked hard with both families to create a sit-down dinner with an Indian fusion cuisine that all guests would be able to enjoy. This included tandoori lamb chops glazed with a rogan josh demi-glace sauce and halibut with a coconut serrano gravy.

For their first dance, the couple began with a waltz that broke into a dance medley including Indian music and hip-hop. The second surprise of the evening was a strikingly coordinated flash mob performed by thirty of Meelan’s cousins and their spouses. The rest of the night was spent celebrating and dancing the night away. At the end of the evening, the walls of the reception opened and revealed an array of desserts in which the guest could indulge. In the end, everyone remembered the effervescence of the wedding and the balanced mix of both Eastern and Western cultures. southasianbridemagazine.com 79

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photographer // J ashim J alal S tudios decor+floral // D esign H ouse D ecor planner // S on al J S hah E vents dj // DJ S unny E ntertainment makeup+hair // U nique V isions S tudios video // N eha M emon henna // N eha M emon catering // M oghul venue // T he R ockleigh C ountry C l ub video booth // SX S tudios

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RETRO

Glam

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photography // P eter N guyen P hotography set stylist // T as M ariam of T as E vents & D esign designer // F arzana J acksi M anekia , L e T rend B outique jewelry // D evam cinematography // I llumination F ilms retouching // Pratik Naik hair & Makeup // M ichele R enee T he S tudio models // R osanna B arsati , E shani B rahmbhat t , R amina A shfaque

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THE

GREAT GATSBY

INSPIRED BRIDE

photography // R ahul R ana P hotography coordinator/planner // C handani C handekar , E vents by C decorator // S wetal P atel , E legance D ecor venue // P almer H ouse H ilton rentals // D anielle O rtega , C lassic P arty R entals cinematography // A ria M atin , A ria F ilms stationery // L oreal N ewson , TRL D esigns clothing and Jewelry // T aj S ari P alace hair & Makeup // H iral V yas model // S amy S imha

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queen

FIT FOR A

A Bridal boutique based out of South Florida, Devam presents a unique collection of decadent fine jewelry & Indian bridal attire for today's dulhan.

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floral

Indulgence photography // D iina D ouglass , A ndrena P hotography floral ar tistry // S hawna Y amamoto of S hawna Y amamoto E vent D esign hair + makeup // J eannie J effries , C outure B eauty T eam venue // M alabar C oast L iving fashion+jewelry // F rontier H eritage fashion (this page) // D reams C ollection model // O lyea S hah

floral headpiece // N icole A ustin floral bracelets // B rit tney F ye

for for

S hawna Y amamoto E vent D esign S hawna Y amamoto E vent D esign fashion // F rontier H eritage

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HINAL + RIKESH WARWICK, RI // NADIA D. PHOTOGRAPHY + KIS (C ub e d ) EVENTS Rikesh and I actually met in 2011 in California but never spoke to one another. We met again in 2013 in California through my uncle and his aunt and started talking via texting. We went out on a 10-hour date in Boston and since then have talked every single day (even while I was in India for over a month)!

Rikesh was finishing up med school in NYC and I was working in Providence, RI, so we've always had a long distance relationship. It was definitely hard trying to see each other due to both of our schedules, but Rikesh always made it work somehow so we would see each other at least once a month for 4-5 days at a time. We went on a ton of dates and a lot of trips, getting to know each other better and better everyday.

We dated for almost 1.5 years before Rikesh proposed on April 17, 2015 at India Point Park in Providence, RI. He was sneaky about it, keeping it all of a surprise for 4 months! His brother and best friends flew in from California for the proposal. He didn't miss a single detail and included my parents, siblings, and close friends to be a part of the proposal. I was completely shocked, as I was not expecting this until a few months down the road when he graduated med school. His friends captured the moment from when I stepped foot into the park until after the proposal when they all popped out from behind various hiding spots. We all went out to dinner that night but the real surprise was that behind my back, my parents and Rikesh spent a month planning a surprise party at my house for the engagement so it was amazing to celebrate with everyone the following day! As an engagement gift, aside from my gorgeous ring, he booked us a trip to Italy 5 days after the proposal! Everything was truly perfect and I couldn't have asked for anything more!

We wanted to enjoy the engagement phase since we know we wouldn't get that back, but I was stressed planning a big fat indian wedding so that idea didn't go over too well! We spent 14 months total, planning from the day he proposed to our wedding date.

We had a total of 6 events for the wedding. The week of events started with my Pithi on Thursday, June 9 and my Mendhi on the evening of June 9, both at my home. My Saatak was held on Friday June 10 also at my home and the remaining festivities (Garba, Wedding, Reception) were held at our venue - The Crowne Plaza, Warwick, RI. We had a welcome speech by my siblings welcoming the grooms’ side along with a performance at my Garba, Friday evening.

Saturday, June 11, 2016 was my favorite day. I not only had my dream wedding but I was marrying my best friend. The decor was classic elegance with blushes and cream florals with a heavenly custom floral print raised aisle done by the one and only Design House Decor. The wedding was truly flawless and Rikesh and I were so pleased with how everything turned out, especially the reception!

DHD did a renaissance themed stage for us and still incorporated my blushes and cream florals with beautiful wisteria floral rings for centerpieces. Everything was truly beautiful and we cannot wait to see all the photos captured by our amazing photographer, Nadia!

We could not have done this without the help of our parents and an amazing team of vendors. southasianbridemagazine.com 113

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photographer // N adia D. P hotography design+decor // D esign H ouse D ecor planner // KIS ( cubed ) E vents music+dhol // DJ G aurav S ood hair+makeup // S onia C & G uisella A guirre lighting+dance floor // DJ B unty venue // C rowne P laza H otel video // R obles V ideo P roductions henna // H enn a by S ue southasianbridemagazine.com 117

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SHEENA + SAMIT KISSIMMEE, FL // HARING PHOTOGRAPHY + PAWAR, INC. From meeting in Chicago to falling in love in New York, the planning of our fairytale wedding began soon after the proposal on the Chicago skyline. We had known many of the vendors we had wanted to work with prior to planning the wedding, and we knew they would execute our dreams into reality. They not only achieved this, but also went above and beyond our expectations. With the support from our parents, the organization and coordination from both our wedding planner Amen Pawar-Larosa and catering manager at the Gaylord Palms, Pam Becker, we were able to achieve four days of fun, friends, family, and great food. Together with them we oversaw every detail of the wedding, which began with the custom invitations that were individually hand-made. After the invitations our engagement pictures began in various places such as Scottsdale, Chicago, Dominican Republic, and Miami. We then planned our two week trip Mumbai and Delhi to meet and work with some of the top designers that regularly work with Bollywood stars. We wanted to have different looks and themes at all our events so we made it a point to have a different designer for each event. This was no small undertaking, as we wanted to coordinate not only ourselves with each theme, but also the immediate and extended family members, bridal party, and close friends. The colors and styles of the garments and the small details from the invitation, from the texture of the paper to the bold laser-cut artwork and Swarovski broach, were then used to execute the final design for each event by Occasions by Shangri-La. This process took months as so many revisions were done and each detail was meticulously planned and re-planned to give us exactly what we wanted. One of the themes that was carried throughout the entire wedding was our custom monogram, which was an infinity symbol transformed into an S representing both our names combined. This monogram was seen from the custom welcome bags, to the handkerchiefs at the baraat, cocktail napkins at the Mehndi, antrapat and snack boxes at the wedding, the surprise magnet at the end of a drink, to the reflection on the dance floor.

Next we wanted to shift our attention to food and drinks, as this is always one of the most talked about things at Indian Weddings.

With the help of our close friend Rupali Amin and Payal Mehta from Moghul Caterers based out of New Jersey, guest described the food as not only unique but an out of this world culinary experience. From the variety, to the presentation, to the taste, nothing was lacking. We covered many different cuisines, which were all executed flawlessly throughout the four-day event, which included: Gujarati, Mexican, Mediterranean, Chinese, Thai, Punjabi, and South Indian. The Gaylord Palms provided a dessert bar at the reception with over 8 different varieties of decadent dessert shooters from chocolate moose to key lime pie. Not only did we have a flowing open bar with top shelf liquor we also had a signature drink at each event, Coco Loco served in real coconuts at the Mehndi, a craft beer bar at the Sangeet, Strawberry Lassi and Pistachio Shakes, and a Mimosa Bar at the farewell brunch. We also wanted our event to be unique in every way, apart from the traditional entertainment from family and friends, and no better way to keep the party going than with Volkanic Entertainment and DJ Audio Rah. We also had caricature artists and Indian Idol singer Vishal Kothari at the Sangeet, Tiny the elephant at the baraat, and a helicopter send off at the vidhai. At the reception we had a slow motion booth, professional LED dancers from California, and our grand rotating-stage reception entrance that left the guests speechless.

Once all the details of our events were finalized, all that was left was for it to be captured by no one better than Otto Haring for Photography and iAerials for Video. They were very passionate about their work and captured every detail of our fairytale wedding.

For an extra touch we hired a painter to capture our wedding ceremony as it was happening. Although the planning and coordination of this magnitude was not easy task, we both grew much closer together through the process. Our path was not always a clear one, and definitely tested our limits, but our end goal was the same. If we could relive this weekend we would not change a single thing, everything was picture perfect. southasianbridemagazine.com 119

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photographer // H aring P hotography decor+floral+lighting // O ccasions by S hangri -L a planner // P awar , I nc ., A men L a R osa dj // V olcanik E ntertainment hair // S ameer N urani makeup // K ar un a C hani catering // A rora H ospitality G roup , M ast M asala venue // G aylord P alms R esort cake // C ake C reation video // i A erials M edia henna // T ej al H enn a LED Perfor mers // T he P owerhouse G roup

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MASUMA + SANJIV ATLANTA, GA //CRAIG O’BRIST PHOTOGRAPHY + ENVI EVENT PLANNING People plan for months in search of having that fairy tale wedding. They spend hours on end searching for the right venue, the right dress, and so much more, all with intention to have that one special day executed without a flaw. When my, now, husband and I decided to join this crazy world of planning a wedding, we knew we wanted something different. Something special. Something that we could always look back on and say that we had the perfect day. In order to understand why our wedding was so special to us, our family, and our friends, you would have to meet us as a couple.

You have Me, a strong-willed young woman from a Muslim family who met a patient and goofy man with an Indian dad and an American mom. Everything about our relationship was different, from the things that we would do for fun, even to the way we communicated. Our love was unique in every way which ensured there was never a dull moment, but it also kept us very humble in how we set our priorities. We cherish every relationship we make, whether with family or friends both old and new. No matter the cost, we would do whatever possible to spend time with the people that mean the most to us. Fast forward four and a half years to our special day.

Keeping to our uniqueness, we decided on a two-day wedding. Day one was our Sangeet, to celebrate the South-Asian part of our bond, and day two was our traditional American wedding, to commemorate our love to one another through a ceremony and a reception.

Going back to the planning, our Sangeet was beautiful. Opal event hall was covered in a royal haze of purple up lighting, topped off by a stage shrouded with a modest blend of gold and purple accents. The DJ was playing all the right tunes, food smelled amazing, and the camera flashes from our photographer made us feel like we were celebrities. The interesting part is a majority of the details I just listed came from me going back to look at pictures because these were NOT the most memorable of things. All of the time and money we put in to our celebration became the perfect empty canvas for Love to paint its masterpiece. My husband’s family brought him in with the happiest of smiles, the loudest whistles, and the stomping of their dancing feet to set the tone for our Sangeet. You could taste the pure happiness that encapsulated the room as I was brought in on my dholki being violently bounced around by the most cheerful group of guys from my family. We always heard about how meticulous the next part was as our families lined up to take pictures with the newlyweds. Like I mentioned before, the sheer joy from being with one another on the happiest days of our lives, alongside a family who wanted to spend these same moments with us, made even the most “meticulous” moments magical. As the delicious food was maliciously attacked by our guests, everyone gathered outside for the most punishing pithi I have ever been a part of, let alone, started by smashing a fresh egg on my husband’s head. After the smell of bbq sauce, egg, and dog food cleared the air, all that was seen, evident in the photographs, was that same amount of joyfulness on my husband and all of our families’ faces. This ended up being the perfect precursor to our traditional American wedding.

I cannot thank my husband, friends, and family more for my perfect Sunday wedding. I arrived early to get ready with my bridesmaids in the one place I had always wanted to get married. The beautiful rooms and gardens in Glendalough Manor were a perfect backdrop to such a magical day. After both my husband and myself consumed enough liquid courage to get as much of our nerves out as humanly possible, our bridal party walked down the aisle, arm and arm, while my father then guided me to my husband. There was not a cloud in the sky as we stared into one another’s eyes, said our vows and happily kissed and embraced one another to celebrate our marriage. As we entered the reception hall for our first dance, I couldn’t have asked for a more magical moment, staring at my husband’s goofy smile as we swayed and turned to our favorite song. The music was loud, the atmosphere was electrifying, and everyone was joining in on the fun. It was perfect……. But not because we planned it perfectly. Everything was spontaneous, from our vows, to our first dance, even all the way to the speeches from our family and friends. This made it genuine. All of the flaws that people look for in the minutia of what our decorations and our lighting looked like did not matter. Everyone was there for us, everyone spoke from the heart, and it was one of the most humbling moments of our lives. My message for any future bride reading about my special day is don’t focus on all of the monetary parts of your wedding. They will only last in pictures. Focus on the atmosphere, the happiness, the candid moments that cannot be captured in pictures or videos and transcend all of the things you can buy. Love the moment and enjoy the celebration of you starting your life with the only person in the world you would want to spend the rest of your life with. southasianbridemagazine.com 125

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photographer // C raig O’ brist floral // J ose V iera sangeet decor // R oyal D ekor planner // E nvi E vent P lanning dj+lighting // DJ J asmeet S ingh hair // K elli B r umb augh makeup // M imi J ohnson sangeet // O pal H all american ceremony venue // G lendalough M anor video // W averly W eddings southasianbridemagazine.com 129

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PRINCESS bride ar t director & co-producer // J arar K azmi , L'A telier L umière I nternational P hotogrphie co-producer and creative director // H arinder G ill , G.P.S D ecors planner & coordinator // B iji P lanners florals, design and stylist // K ulpreet B hambra , G.P.S D ecors cake // F ine C akes by Z ehra photography // L'A telier L umière stationery and table menu // Y our O ccasion beauty // L esonne B ridals fashion // F rontier H eritage jewelry // M aya ’ s B outique Cutlery, Glassware & Flatware // E vent R ental G roup Louis Chair Rental // L uxe M odern R entals

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A REGAL AFFAIR photography // S tephen R enney , E levate C reation s photoshoot design // R ibha E vents designs // R anisha P atel , B inari A rts lighting // I ndaglow P roductions florals // J im W hite hair // K imberly makeup // K ripa real couple of ribha events // N atasha and S umit

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Glamourous Brides photography // K eith C ephus P hotography gowns // T he B outique by B.B elle E vents head adornments // M int L ola headdress // C harles S chwartz & S ons makeup // K ym L ee hair // C harlene B rown , A bove H air S alon floral design // D exter F ields F lowers casting + pr // M aggie F ancy F rancois venue // T he W illard I ntercontinental H otel

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THE SUNSET BEAUTY photography // M ohit D asaur from I mpressions P hotography hair + makeup // H amana A rtistry designer // A man C outure

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BEHIND THE INDIAN VEIL

A Journey Through Weddings in India Behind The Indian Veil chronicles award-winning photographer Sephi Bergerson’s extraordinary journey through uncharted wedding traditions in India. It reveals the differences and similarities in Indian wedding traditions, while seeking the common essence of this grand, colourful, fantastic celebration.

After living in India for more than 13 years, with almost seven of which spent working on this project, Sephi has arguably experienced, witnessed and documented a greater variety of Indian weddings than any other person on earth. As he traveled the length and breadth of India, he was invited into sacred places and intimate moments normally inaccessible to outsiders, witnessing traditions buried so deep in the subconscious of the subcontinent that even people from India don’t necessarily know about them. This incredible array of stories he was able to capture reveals cultures, traditions, and legacies as complex and diverse as India herself.

Behind The Indian Veil features images and written stories from a vast assortment of Indian communities: Tamil Brahmin, Bengali, Sikh, Hindu Punjabi, Hyderabadi Muslim, Rajput, Kashmiri Pandit, Ladakhi Buddhist, Goan Catholic, Syrian Christian, Zoroastrian Parsi, Dawoodi Bhora, and Kodava Coorg.

http://wedding.sephi.com/wedding-book/

www . frontierheritage . com

(562) 653-9396 // (905) 796-0600

LOS ANGELES . TORONTO