We love to get the chance to work with Indian weddings! These weddings usually last around three to four days. They are full of traditions, rituals, and big families! We were so excited to be part of capturing Karthik and Megan’s amazing wedding. Each venue location was beautiful, with colorful decorations and spacious areas for all the wedding festivities. All four days were filled with so much laughter, colors, family, and special memories!
During the first day, called Mehndi, the women and girls had their hennah tattoos done. Megan’s hennah was so thoughtfully created. Looking closely, she had the letters from Karthik’s name spread out throughout that Henna. Her henna turned out beautifully, making it one of the best ones we’ve seen!
On the day of Vedhi, a lot of religious and traditional rituals were done.
The third day, known as Garba, each family member was introduced while a live band played in the background. Not only were Karthik and Megan coming together as a couple in marriage, but two families merging into one. It was a very fun way for everyone to meet each other. Ashyana Banquets was decorated so beautifully! They also had a lot of fun entertainment during the night.
Finally the last day, known as Baraat, came with the processional starting at 8 am. With Indian Weddings, one of the most impressive things is the amount of energy there is! Members from both families were jumping and dancing. If that wan’t enough, Karthik’s parents surprised the couple by hiring a group of dancers and performers to add to the celebration. The energy from the group, dancers, drummer, and the speakers was so intense! Again, we could not believe it was only 8 in the morning! With all the celebration and dancing going on, Karthik came in riding on a magnificent white horse.
At that time, the families came together as one with Karthik being officially welcomed into the family, and thus, beginning the welcoming ceremony. At the welcoming ceremony, each of Megan's family member-uncles, aunts, grandparents, etc- exchanged real flower necklaces with one another. They were called one by one, and some hugged and teared up with excitement to receive the gift. Afterwards, they concluded with a prayer.
Once seated inside, the ceremony continued. Eventually it came time for the bride to come. After each bridesmaid walked in, Megan entered. She came in on a Doli, a platform which looked like a flying carpet, carried by her uncles and closest relatives. She looked absolutely stunning. The entire ceremony was again, beautiful, ending with very emotional time.
At this is the point, the bride symbolically leaves her family to be with his. After many tearful goodbyes, the couple left together in order to prepare for the reception.
After getting ready and before the reception, Megan and Karthik both took turns exchanging gifts. From Megan, a beautiful scrapbook filled with memories of their relationship. From Karthik, a creatively designed canvas with a picture of them together. Now it was time for the party!
As with tradition receptions, the bridal parties and important guests take turns entering the hall, and finally, bride and groom enter as they are announced an officially married couple. We had a blast capturing it all through photography and film. Throughout the evening, people danced, spoke, performed, and had a amazing time celebrating Karthik and Megan.
