Priorities

Your priorities should be Budget, Location, Dates and Guests.

Once you have all the four stated above, sit down with your fiancée’ and talk about your wedding day. What do you both envision for your special day? Talk about the ceremony. What are your “must haves?” It’s important as you want to make sure that both of your needs are being met as each person’s must haves/priorities may be different.

Now you can begin finding the Perfect Venue for your Perfect Day!

Finding the right professional will help you navigate through the complexities of finding the perfect venue and hotel accommodations for you and your guest and will alleviate unnecessary stress for you over the coming months. They are experienced and do this on a day-to-day basis, they will have more information to provide in addition to saving you time and money. They know your needs and have your best interest in mind along with your budget.

When starting a search for your venue you will need to develop an RFP to send out to several venues within the location. Keep in mind, looking at only one venue may limit the amount of choices you have as far as dates, space availability, room availability, etc. If you are looking at a destination and not familiar with the venue options, ask your professional. They can provide you with the best options in any destination.

Reviewing the responses from the RFP that was sent out will provide you with all the details you need to go to the next step. It will contain the dates available, capacity, F&B minimums, etc. From this list you may be able to discount certain venues according to the information they provided.

After close review and conversations with your fiancée and professional you will have developed a list of possible venues. Your professional will arrange for you to visit each of the venues so that you can ensure the space you saw on their website photos looks the same in person. You’ll get a feeling of how the space can be transformed, you’ll have the opportunity to taste their food, look at their accommodations and ensure they have enough rooms for your guests, ensure they have enough parking for your guests. It’s easy to fall in love with each venue, however, make a list of the pros and cons so at the end you have everything in front of you to make the best decision.

Now you are ready to request a contract. Your professional will negotiate with the venue on your behalf. If you don’t understand a portion of the contract, ask for clarification. Make sure you understand what the payment/deposit schedule is, make sure that it’s stated in the contract. Don’t be afraid to ask for revisions to be made for the contract. Don’t sign the contract until it is exactly what you want. Make sure that you receive a final countersigned copy of the contract. Make note of all the deadlines that will be outlined within it. Missing a deadline with a venue can cost you thousands of dollars.

Now the fun begins. Go dress shopping, taste lots of cakes, etc. Enjoy it all, before you know it, Your Special Day will be here!

About The Author

Loretta Champion Johnson and Kimberly Reckert provide Venue Sourcing/Hotel Accommodations with HelmsBriscoe. Since 1992, HelmsBriscoe has earned the reputation as the global leader in venue site selection. They work diligently to match clients with the best venue at the best value based on their specific requirements. Whether you are a wedding planner working for a couple, or coordinating your own event, they can help secure a venue and block at the hotel that best accommodates your needs, budget and location! Email KReckert@HelmsBriscoe.com and LChampJohn@HelmsBriscoe.com for more information.

Venue Vendor Guide
The following is not an extensive list, but a list of venues that participated in the Desh Videsh Media Group survey.
Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center Hotel Contact: Regenia McLean 770-730-3720 Where: 246 Perimeter Center Parkway NE, Atlanta, GA 30346 Guest Rooms: 344 Banquet Hall Capacity: 6412 and 2595 of pre function space Email: regenia.r.mclean@marriott.com Web: www.marriott.com/ATLPC	Hilton Orlando – Altamonte Springs Contact: Jim Donovan 407-830-1985 Where: 350 South Northlake Blvd, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701-5389 Banquet Hall Capacity: 6,720 Sq Ft Email: jim.donovan@hilton.com Web: www.orlandoaltamontesprings.hilton.com
Gaylord Palms Resort Contact: Pam Becker 407-586-2248 Where: 6000 W Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746-4414 Guest Rooms: 1416 Banquet Hall Capacity: 46,000 Sq Ft Email: pbecker@gaylordhotels.com Web: www.gaylordpalms.com	Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek Contact: 407-597-3600 Where: 14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Ln, Orlando, FL 32821-4024Guest Rooms: 1009 Banquet Hall Capacity: 36,000 Sq Ft Email: bonnetcreekweddings@hilton.com Web: www.hiltonbonnetcreek.com
Bonaventure Resort & Spa Contact: Giselle Roach 954-349-5606 Where: 250 Racquet Club Rd, Weston, FL 33326-1114 Email: groach@bonaventurefl.com Web: www.bonaventureresortandspa.com	Innisbrook Golf and Spa Resort Contact: Melissa Davidson 727-942-5541 Where: 36750 Us Highway 19 N, Palm Harbor, FL 34684-1239 Banquet Hall Capacity: 200-800 guests Email: ccorbett@innisbrookresort.com Web: www.innisbrookgolfresort.com
Coral Springs Marriott Contact: Jeri-Ann Hart 954-227-4119 Where: 11775 Heron Bay Blvd, Coral Springs, FL 33076-1941 Email: jeriann.hart@atriumhospitality.com Web: www.marriott.com/fllmc	Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort Contact: Barry Rubin 305-949-1300 Where: 16701 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160-4201 Guest Rooms: 339 Banquet Hall Capacity: 4,800 Sq Ft Email: brubin@newportbeachsideresort.com Web: www.newportbeachsidresort.com
Doubletree by Hilton Sunrise/Sawgrass Contact: Karima Barnes 954-835-3605 Where: 13400 W Sunrise Blvd, Sunrise, FL 33323-0909 Banquet Hall Capacity: 5700 Sq Ft Email: karima.barnes@hilton.com Web: www.sawgrasshotel.com	Novare Events Contact: Hope Nudelman 404-962-8700 Where: 817 W. Peachtree Street NW, Suite 208, Atlanta, GA 30308-1150 Email: hnudelman@novareevents.com Web: www.novareevents.com
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay Contact: Caitlin Schmedeke 813-207-6630 Where: 2900 Bayport Dr, Tampa, FL 33607-1479 Guest Rooms: 444 Banquet Hall Capacity: 10,502 Sq Ft Email: caitlin.schmedeke@hyatt.com Web: www.grandhyatttampabay.com	Palm Beach Gardens Marriott Contact: Morgan Smith 561-630-1304 Where: 4000 RCA Blvd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410-4233 Email: morgan.smith@marriott.com Web: www.marriott.com/PBIPG
Gulf Stream Park Contact: Ray Briels 954-475-6957 Where: 901 S Federal Hwy, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009-7124 Banquet Hall Capacity: 14,000 Sq Ft Email: ray.briels@gulfstreampark.com Web: www.gulfstreampark.com	Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley Contact: Vanessa Jackson 919-571-5345 Where: 4500 Marriott Drive, Raleigh, NC 27612-3365 Email: v.jackson@marriott.com Web: www.raleighmarriott.com
Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa Contact: Kia Guilford 954-766-6128 Where: 3030 Holiday Dr, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33316-2414 Guest Rooms: 650 Banquet Hall Capacity: 14,900 Sq Ft (1800 people) Email: harborbeachcateringsales@marriott.com Web: www.marriottharborbeachweddings.com	Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel Contact: Tammie Guthrie 770-953-4500Where: 2450 Galleria Pkwy Se, Atlanta, GA 30339-3130Guest Rooms: 522Banquet Hall Capacity: 16,000 Sq FtEmail: tammie.guthrie@renaissancehotels.comWeb: www.renaissancewaverly.com
Hilton Charlotte Center City Contact: Tracy Suit 704-331-4380 Where: 222 E. Third Street, Charlotte, NC 28202-2315 Guest Rooms: 400 Banquet Hall Capacity: 11,070 Sq Ft Email: tracy.suit@hiltoncentercity.com Web: www.charlottebestwedding.com	St. Augustine Renaissance Contact: Emiliana Mes 904-940-8635Where: 500 S Legacy Trl, St Augustine, FL 32092-2719Email: emiliana.mes@atriumhospitality.comWeb: www.marriott.com/JAXBR
Hilton Daytona Beach Contact: Tiler Theisen 386-254-8200 Where: 100 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32118-4204 Banquet Hall Capacity: 8675 Sq. Ft. Email: ttheisen@daytonahilton.com Web: www.daytonahilton.com	Waldorf Astoria Orlando Contact: Daniele Spano 407-597-5500 Where: 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort LN, Orlando, FL 32821-4024 Guest Rooms: 502 Banquet Hall Capacity: 8000 Sq Ft with 4500 Sq pre function space Email: bonnetcreekweddings@hilton.com Web: www.waldorfastoriaorlando.com
Hilton Orlando Contact: Teresa Bernstein 407-313-8458 Where: 6001 Destination Parkway, Orlando, FL 32819-8117 Guest Rooms: 1424 Banquet Hall Capacity: 100–1,000+ guests Email: Teresa.bernstein@hilton.com Web: www.thehiltonorlando.com
Tips from Wedding Professionals “Single most important factor in choosing a wedding venue: The venue’s reputation and the feeling of excitement at seeing the venue for the first time and your first thought is “this is MY wedding venue” Pam Becker Gaylord Palms Resort “The most important wedding factor in choosing a wedding venue is how the venue makes you feel. Not only the atmosphere it provides, but the people who work there and will service your wedding. It’s important to pay a little extra for the experience your guests will receive, as you are hosting them for this special weekend.” Caitlin Schmedeke Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay “While price is always an important factor; service, package inclusions and added benefits are also essential when comparing venues. The Hilton Charlotte Center City has a variety of packages and unique ceremony locations to accommodate your vision.” Tracy Suit Hilton Charlotte Center City “When choosing a wedding venue, I advise to look for experience with Indian Weddings. Understanding the culture and rituals helps allows the venue to become a true partner in proposing space, planning the details, and thinking strategically to anticipate the needs of the family during this special time.” Teresa Bernstein Hilton Orlando “When choosing your wedding venue the most important tips are to know what location you are looking for and ensuring the location can accommodate the amount guests you are wanting to have.” Barry Rubin Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort “We believe it’s important to select a venue that has a team of experts who understand South Asian Weddings and fully embrace the rich cultural traditions. We put our clients at ease knowing they are in experienced, creative, capable and caring hands. Our clients become a part of our Renaissance Waverly family!” Tammie Guthrie Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel

Perfect Wedding Venue

Budget

Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center Hotel

Hilton Orlando – Altamonte Springs

Gaylord Palms Resort

Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

Bonaventure Resort & Spa

Innisbrook Golf and Spa Resort

Coral Springs Marriott

Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort

Doubletree by Hilton Sunrise/Sawgrass

Novare Events

Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay

Palm Beach Gardens Marriott

Gulf Stream Park

Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley

Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel

Hilton Charlotte Center City

St. Augustine Renaissance

Hilton Daytona Beach

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

Hilton Orlando

Pam Becker

Caitlin Schmedeke

Tracy Suit

Teresa Bernstein

Barry Rubin

Tammie Guthrie

Wedding Professionals

Jeri-Ann Hart

Hope Nudelman

Karima Barnes

Morgan Smith

Caitlin Schmedeke

Vanessa Jackson

Ray Briels

Emiliana Mes

Daniele Spano

Tiler Theisen

Teresa Bernstein

After this romantic proposal came the real work. Planning and picking the right wedding vendors so their big day went as smoothly as possible. Planning a wedding along with trying to juggle between work, looking for a house, community service, and trying to have some sort of social life, seemed almost impossible. Luckily, from the very beginning Shivani and Aakash hired Umangi Patel & Rikti Smart with Elite Dream Creations. Shivani recommends any bride planning a traditional Indian wedding to hire a wedding planner! They have creative ideas and clever ways of efficiently handling certain situations.

Given most Indian weddings are large productions with several events and lots of people. Shivani and Aakash planned to invite more than 700 people for their celebration, so picking the right, and large enough, venue was a challenge. A venue in Orlando was ideal since Aakash lives in Tampa and Shivani in Viera. The couple wanted to be sure to find the right location, with hospitality and the right price tag. The Hilton Orlando offered everything they needed for their fairytale wedding.

The couple’s big day was November 9, 2019, and included pre-wedding events such as the Mehndi, Sangeet and Pithi.

The wedding ceremony was indoors. The Occasions by Shangri La decor team created a true vision in the ballroom. Upon entering, a beautiful floral ring of white, ivory, and hints of blush pink, hung over the mandap, with four hanging wisteria vines. The walls were covered with a beautiful golden drape and two massive Ultra HD screens projecting a live feed behind the mandap. Two white floral peacocks were resting at the front of the aisle, which was all white with floating candles lined across the side.

When planning the reception, Shivani wanted it to feel like the first day she met Aakash at Tomorrowworld. The stage was designed and decorated exactly the same way to resemble the stage where the couple originally met. The Grand Finale of the wedding came when couple’s first dance performance began to the tune “I Like Me Better” by Lauv. Schamir, one of Aakash’s groomsmen, played the piano while Hanna Malik, Shivani’s friend, sang the song.

BANQUET HALLS Hilton Orlando 407-313-8458 | BEAUTICIANS-COSMETICIAN Michele Renee Hair & Makeup Artist Group 813-531-7770 | CAKE Niaddi Flan 813-773-3526 Polka Dot It Cakes 407-448-5783 | DECORATOR Occasions By Shangri-la 407-614-2977 | DISC JOCKEY Krish Entertainment Inc. 352-299-0743 | EVENT PLANNER Elite Dream Creations 407-733-2597 | MEHNDI Henna Allure 321-444-5911 | PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHY Fine Art Productions 407-979-4749 | PRIEST Mahesh Gor 678-613-0641 | RESTAURANT/CATERING Aashirwad Indian Cuisine 407-370-9830 Flavors of India 407-778-5255 Khasiyat Indian Restaurant 407-888-2147

Lauv

Ultra HD

Rikti Smart

right wedding vendors

all white

wedding ceremony

true vision

Umangi Patel

Tomorrowworld

certain situations

floral peacocks

real work

Mehndi

almost impossible

Shivani

fairytale wedding

best friend

Pithi

live feed

several events

Orlando

clever ways

Indian weddings

large productions

wisteria vines

decor team

Aakash

Viera

wedding planner

right price tag

Hanna Malik

social life

November

blush pink

same way

Tampa

big day

floral ring

community service

wedding events

romantic proposal

golden drape

first day

Grand Finale

Shangri La

first dance performance

Curtis Hixon Park

so big

right location

Sangeet

Schamir

creative ideas

Hilton Orlando

Indian wedding

Elite Dream Creations

For over 10 years, MyShadi Bridal Expo has been a community event not to be missed by those planning a South Asian wedding. What began as a small bridal show twice a year in Florida, has now grown into a platform for over 85 event vendors taking place in over six different cities across the Southeast US.

Hosted by Desh Videsh Media Group, the MyShadi Bridal Expo offers vendors a chance to showcase their products and services as well as the latest trends in South Asian weddings. Instead of driving around town meeting vendors weekend after weekend, brides, grooms, and their families can spend one afternoon checking items off their wedding to-do lists.

Raj and Aruna Shah, founders of Desh Videsh Media Group, dreamed up the idea of a South Asian specific bridal show soon after their youngest son’s wedding. At their most recent show at the Ft. Lauderdale Marriott Coral Springs Hotel on Sunday, August 25, 2019, the Shahs were humbled by the large crowds. “It’s so great to see so many young couples making plans for their futures. We love meeting couples as much as we do working with vendors,” said Mrs. Shah.

The MyShadi Bridal Expo has evolved over the years, and now hosts event planning vendors such as photographers, decorators, DJs, caterers, venues, clothing/jewelry boutiques, hair/makeup/henna artists, and more in one exhibition hall in one afternoon. Bold, inviting colors and a festive atmosphere provide a backdrop for the display of the many elements in a South Asian wedding. Beautifully designed mandaps with gorgeous floral arrangements and intricate reception table settings are just some of the wedding components attendees get to see in person. Many couples now blend tradition with modern elements, and the MyShadi Bridal Expo is the place to be inspired and create a unique wedding vision.

When it comes to bridal and formal wear fashion, the exclusive designer fashion shows provide a stunning look at the latest styles. Whether a wedding guest or the bride, the designer clothing and jewelry boutiques attending the show allow attendees to purchase items on site.

Over the years, the MyShadi Bridal Expo has become a place not only for wedding planning, but for all event planning needs. Attendees planning baby showers and anniversary and graduation parties are able to find photographers, venues, caterers and more at the show making the process that much easier. MyShadi Bridal Expo offers something for all members of the family!

For those hoping to check items of that wedding to do list or just feel inspired, the Desh Videsh Media Group team hopes to see at the next show on Sunday, September 15, at the Hilton Orlando! Be on the lookout for 2020 show dates to be announced soon.

For a look at what to expect at the MyShadi Bridal Expo, visit www.myshadibridalexpo.com and click on Past Events.

MyShadi Bridal Expo
community event

South Asian wedding

Southeast US

Desh Videsh Media Group

Raj Shah

Aruna Shah

South Asian specific bridal show

Ft. Lauderdale Marriott Coral Springs Hotel

Indin Wedding photographers

Indian Wedding decorators

Indian Wedding DJs

Indian Wedding caterers

Indian Wedding venues

clothing/jewelry boutiques

hair Style

makeup Artist

henna artists

Hilton Orlando

Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel

Simrans Designer Wear

Shubhra Singh Chohan

Yasmin Hetherington of Blushing Bride

Mital of Myar Decor Inc

Exclusive Entertainment Events

Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley

D The Event Planner

Banjara Indian Boutique

Wedding Hair by Liz

Royal Event DJs

Vikwabs Decor

Rosanna Barsati

Le Trend Boutique

Michele Renee Hair& Makeup Artist Group

Dudha Productions

Hilton Charlotte Center City

Ritu Bhat

Heartfelt Fashion

DJ Pawan Entertainment & Events

House of Masaba

Devam

Miami Ethnic

Rima of Dil Se Dance
Beauty Cafe Salon

Infinite Soundz Entertainment

Myshadi Bridal Expo in Charlotte

Myshadi Bridal Expo in Orlando

Myshadi Bridal Expo in Fort Lauderdale

Myshadi Bridal Expo in Raleigh

Myshadi Bridal Expo in Atlanta

Hilton Orlando is the perfect place to start your journey together as a couple. Tucked away in the heart of Orlando is where you’ll discover Hilton Orlando, a vibrant, contemporary resort with an exciting personality to complement an exceptional location. Centrally located to all major theme parks and attractions, this resort features lush landscaping and tropical inspirations. Choose the perfect backdrop for your big day with 3 marvelous ballrooms, private Baraat locations, or picturesque outdoor venues, featuring The Promenade, or our secluded pool deck. From traditional ceremonies to elaborate receptions, you will enjoy the comfort and convenience of hosting your wedding weekend in one fabulous location. Each of your guests will be welcomed with the personalized service with the goal of creating unforgettable memories. From our 1,424 luxurious guest rooms and suites, to a little R&R, the heart of the resort is the expansive recreation area featuring a tropical oasis with sweeping waterfalls overflowing into two pools and a lazy river lined with luxurious cabanas. For more activity, take a plunge down the winding water slide, or enjoy an afternoon on one of the sports courts. Inside, take the time wellness and enjoy eforea, the onsite spa and fitness center. Hilton Orlando is truly a destination with a unique experience in of its own.

Bringing two people together in marriage is one of the most important traditions for every culture and religion. We look forward to working with you and appreciate all the friends and families that we have had the pleasure to meet along the way. At Hilton Orlando, we cater to Indian weddings and celebrations, and have experience creating events that respect and showcase cultural traditions and customs, including customized Indian Wedding Packages to meet all of your needs. Let our wedding specialists show you have we can coordinator all the details to make your special day truly represent your heritage and help you celebrate as you begin your life journey together.

traditional ceremonies

elaborate receptions

private Baraat locations

Indian Wedding hosting

Indian Wedding Packages

wedding specialists

Contact Info:
Teresa Bernstein, Director of Catering
Email: Teresa.Bernstein@Hilton.com
Tel: 407-313-8458
www.thehiltonorlando.com/weddings

Posted on: 05-31-2019 by: Deshvidesh

Making use of airline voucher tickets that were about to expire, Manali and Nikesh booked a trip to New York City. Nikesh used this as the perfect opportunity to pop the big question. He planned a memorable evening at a lovely New York City rooftop restaurant complete with candles and music! For Manali, the night was a dream come true.

The couple chose to host the wedding in Orlando, Florida, as Manali’s family lives in Melbourne and Nikesh’s in Tampa. The Hilton Orlando was the perfect venue, and the couple enlisted the help of a wedding planner. The pre-wedding events included a Moroccan-themed mehndi, vidhi ceremony, and sangeet.

The groom entered the main wedding event in a helicopter accompanied by his cousin sisters. He surprised Manali with a small dance performance especially for her with his friends and some of her bridesmaids. The wedding ceremony took place outdoors and the mandap was adorned in white, red, pink, and green florals. Waterfall effects in the background along with an aisle lined with candles and greenery pedestals enhanced the atmosphere. Music at the wedding events was a mix of Bollywood and western hits. Manali and Nikesh’s celebration included many surprise dance performances making the day memorable.

The evening reception was held indoors and featured a black and white dance floor along with a neon lit chandelier and matching centerpieces. Personal touches made the event more intimate with pictures of the couple’s wedding photo shoot in Jaipur and Jodhpur at the entrance.

Nikesh and Manali feel that the process from dating to the wedding can be long and drawn out filled with hard decisions, but in the end, it is all worth it when the love of your life stands before you in the mandap.

BANQUET HALLS Hilton Orlando 407-313-8458 | BEAUTICIANS / COSMETICIAN Michele Renee Hair & Makeup Artist Group 813-531-7770 | Payal MUA 267-394-0466 | CAKE Anna Cakes 407-792-8096 | Nothing Bundt Cakes 407-720-3839 | DECORATOR Utopian Event Florida 407 929 6641 | DISC JOCKEY Jashn 404-441-3539 | M4U Events 732-429-4837 | EVENT PLANNER Nisha Pandya 407-488-6677 | HORSE – CARRIAGE Orlando Horse & Carriage 321-278-8007 | HELICOPTER Max Flight Helicopter 407-505-9694 | MEHNDI Henna Allure 321-444-5911 | PHOTOGRAPHER / VIDEOGRAPHY Asaad Images 407-221-3333 | AZM Cinematography 954-854-2808 | PRIEST Rushi Maharaj 813-503-3388 | RESTAURANT/CATERING Aashirwad Indian Cuisine 407-370-9830 | Agave Azul Mexican Restaurant 407-704-6930 | Khasiyat Indian Restaurant 407-888-2147 | Saffron Indian Cuisine- Orlando 407-674-8899 |

Hilton Orlando

VIEW PORTFOLIO

Michele Renee Hair & Makeup Artist Group

VIEW PORTFOLIO

Aashirwad Indian Cuisine

VIEW PORTFOLIO

Saffron Indian Cuisine- Orlando

VIEW PORTFOLIO

For more information on how Preferred Vendors members are chosen, click here.

garba night

indian wedding hair and make up michelle renne

indian wedding dress

wedding event

Nikesh and Manali

Indian wedding decorations

Indian wedding ceremony

Hilton Orlando

Michele Renee Hair & Makeup Artist Group

Aashirwad Indian Cuisine

Saffron Indian Cuisine – Orlando

INDIAN RESTAURANT

wedding planning

Orlando Horse – Carriage

The couple chose a destination wedding at the Hilton Orlando. The auspicious week began with multiple pre-wedding events including mehndi night and pithi ceremonies. The garba night was filled with energetic colors lit up across the ballroom. All the guests came dressed to impress as they danced and indulged in variety of delicious Indian, Mexican and Chinese street foods!

BANQUET HALLS Hilton Orlando 407-313-8458 | BEAUTICIANS / COSMETICIAN A Touch of Fierce 407-232-5743 | CAKE Rose Hill Cakes 407-962-7485 | CATERING Khasiyat Indian Restaurant 407-252-8756 | Tabla Bar & Grill 407-247-2509 | DECORATOR Nikun Events 407-448-7128 | DISC JOCKEY GTB Productions 404-606-0402 | HORSE CARRIAGE Orlando Horse & Carriage 321-278-8007 | MEHNDI Maheen Decor 850-980-5386 | MUSIC Pandiya Family 973-902-8868 | PHOTO BOOTH Event One 407-793-2551 | PHOTOGRAPHER / VIDEOGRAPHY Memories Studio 888-760-0425 |

The main wedding ceremony and all other festivities were made into starry events with the help of wedding planners, family & friends. Beautiful flowers and a natural setting on the garba night was made vibrant and lovely with the addition of many colorful hanging fabrics. The wedding ceremony was celebrated against a backdrop of peach and ivory along with crystals shining on a sunlit outdoor mandap with a live waterfall background. The reception was done in a navy blue, ivory, and gold theme. The stage had an elaborate backdrop with hanging floral centerpieces and archways.

Some unique personalizations created by the couple included the wedding newspaper and key cards for guests that detailed events, themes and fun facts about the wedding.

The guests were surprised as Nimish made his helicopter entrance into the Baraat ceremony. For Nimish, one wow moment came when he saw Shivali for the first time in her bridal outfit on their wedding day! From Garba to Mandap, life for the newlyweds will be filled with music as they live happily ever after!

Posted on: 02-25-2019 by: Deshvidesh

Hilton Orlando

A Touch of Fierce

Rose Hill Cakes

Khasiyat Indian Restaurant

Nikun Events

Memories Studio

Orlando Horse & Carriage

Indian Wedding In Orlando

Indian Wedding Planner

Indian Wedding Beauticians in orlando

Indian Wedding DJ’s in orlando

Indian Wedding Photographer

Indian Wedding Catering

Bridal Cosmetician In orlando

2018 MyShadi Bridal Expos:
Year in Review

The wedding industry’s top vendors are part of the show giving attendees a chance to meet with vendors who specialize in South Asian weddings. From event planners to photographers and banquet halls to decorator’s, the MyShadi Bridal Expo offers brides and grooms access to nearly every vendor needed to plan a wedding. Beautifully designed mandaps with gorgeous floral arrangements and intricate reception table settings are just some of the wedding components attendees get to see in person. MyShadi Bridal Expo is the place to be to feel inspired and come up with a unique wedding vision. When it comes to bridal and formal wear fashion, the exclusive designer fashion shows provide a stunning look at the latest styles. Whether a wedding guest or the bride, the designer clothing and jewelry boutiques attending the show allow attendees to purchase items on site. Many couples are now planning destination weddings, and the MyShadi Bridal Expo makes it even easier to do. The Destination Wedding Pavillion gathers venues and wedding planners together to ease the process of planning a wedding in an exotic locale. For those hoping to check items of that wedding to do list or just feel inspired, the team at Desh Videsh Media Group hopes to see you next year! Be on the lookout for dates to be announced soon. For a look at what to expect at the MyShadi Bridal Expo, visit www.myshadibridalexpo.com and click on Past Events.

For Richa Desai, chiropractor, and Shashank Gandhi, neurosurgery resident, a day on the beach turned out to be something more. Little did Richa know that the walk would turn into a romantic proposal. When she and Shashank were walking along the Clearwater Beach at sunset, Richa saw bright drapes flowing in the breeze with three large photographs of them. “I immediately turned to Shashank. He took my hands and proceeded with the most beautiful proposal,” she said.

The wedding and reception were held in Richa’s hometown, Orlando, at the Hilton Orlando Resort on December 9, 2017, with 500 guests in attendance. The couple’s pre-wedding events were mehndi, grah shanti and sangeet and each included a live band along with traditional décor.

While the couple did hire a wedding planner, family also helped with much of the planning and arrangements. Their mandap was the largest ever — 40 feet wide with a 12-foot center golden medallion created by Occasions by Shangri-La.

Given the wedding theme was royalty, Richa and Shashank dressed as an Indian king and queen in customized royal designer clothing and kundan jewelry. The baraat arrived via a horse and carriage. Richa’s vidai was in a vintage 1962 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud Convertible.

The décor for the reception was a starry night with LED-backdrop that changed colors to set the mood and along with crystal chandeliers. Centerpieces included crystal vases with fresh flowers.

The most memorable moment of the entire event was the couple’s “James Bond-esque” entrance on a 12-foot golden rotating medallion, cut a life-size colorful dhol with the sound! A Big Fat Indian wedding it is!

BANQUET HALLS Hilton Orlando 407-313-8458 | BEAUTICIANS / COSMETICIAN Beauty by Tamanna 646-571-5585 | CAKE Tru-Cakes 407-473-5849 | CATERING Indias Grill Tampa 813-872-8222 | Taste of India 321-751-4191 | Sudhas Fast Food Caterer 407-758-1776 | DECORATOR Occasions By Shangri-la 407-614-2977 | DISC JOCKEY Roshni Productions 732-318-2136 | Volcanik Entertainment 201-240-9080 | EVENT PLANNER Eventrics Weddings 863-397-0547 | PHOTOGRAPHER / VIDEOGRAPHY Amita S. Photography 813-600-7014 | Fandango Wedding Films 305-785-3263

Indian Bride and Groom

Indian wedding reception

Indian Wedding mandap

Indian Wedding Theme

Indian Wedding Decorations

Indian Wedding Event Planner

Indian Wedding wedding planner

Indian Wedding CATERING

Photographer: Castaldo Studios LLC

Doctors Katherine Bautista, 34, and Sameer Draviam, 34, tied the knot on November 4 in Orlando, Florida. The couple dated for two years, before getting engaged and getting hitched this fall.

Katherine, an OBGYN Resident Physician met Sameer, an Emergency Medicine Physician (EMR) while working at the Osceola Regional Medical Center. Katherine is from Colorado Springs, while Sameer is from Cleveland, Ohio. From the very first instance when they met at the hospital, Katherine and Sameer connected.

It was on Katherine’s birthday on the Big Island, Hawaii, that Sameer popped the question. The duo went on a week’s holiday after attending Sameer’s friend’s wedding in California. It was a surprise trip planned as Katherine loved adventure. They hiked volcanoes and enjoyed scuba diving.

Katherine was not expecting a proposal, but rather was looking forward to a sunrise hike. However, when Sameer found a secluded waterfall while hiking, he went down on his knees and proposed. “I was very nervous and slipped on a wet rock, hurt my knee, but didn’t drop the ring,” he said. The duo celebrated their engagement with a private oceanfront dining at the Four Seasons that evening.

The couple hired a wedding planner — Casie Caldwell from Sparkleigh Productions. The couple also attended the My Shadi Bridal Expo in Orlando, where Katherine and Sameer had no doubts that the Hilton Orlando Resort would be the perfect venue for their wedding. Their guest list included 280 people. The sangeet or mehndi was organized at the Winter Park Community Center. The décor was traditional Indian, while the mood was set by the DJ with foot-tapping numbers. The couple had a church wedding followed by a reception. The church wedding was held in the First Congregational Church of Winter Park, Florida. Decor at the church included flower arrangements on the altar and front, a white runner, tall candelabras with bright colored sashes tied on both sides. “We left the ceremony in a horse drawn carriage with ‘Just Married’ written across,” said Katherine. The baarat arrived after the Christian wedding ceremony dancing to Bollywood, Bhangra, and desi numbers as a dhol player played on. Sameer sat on a white horse that was visibly restless, while the bridal party arrived in a black Hummer limo. Three cabana tents were erected at the Hilton; one was transformed into a hookah lounge with live flamenco and a guitarist. The outdoors, sunset with candelabras, crystal chandeliers, and flowers were perfect for the cocktail and reception. Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip Hop, EDM, Reggae, Reggaeton, and dancehall music played. Katherine advises couples to spend more on decorations rather than the venue. One incident she laughs about is how Sameer’s brother forgot the mangalsutra in the hotel before the ceremony, but luckily his mom was able to find it on time!

Vendors BANQUET HALLS First Congregational Church 407-647-2416 Hilton Orlando 407-313-8458 BEAUTICIANS Michele Renee Hair & Makeup Artist Group 813-531-7770 CAKE Party Flavors Custom Cakes 407-578-2082 CATERING Tabla Bar and Grill 407-248-9400 DECORATOR/FLOWERS Prizm Event Design 407-921-1804 DISC JOCKEY Encore Event DJs 478-231-6282 HORSE – CARRIAGE Orlando Horse & Carriage 321-278-8007 MEHNDI Henna By Pria 727-459-6448 PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHY Castaldo Studios LLC 407-347-8926 PRIEST/OFFICIANT Rev. Shawn Garvey WEDDING PLANNER Sparkleigh Productions 321-431-6990

The post Katherine and Sameer first appeared on Desh-Videsh Media reaches 1.5 Millions+ Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshi, and Indo-Caribbeans..]]> https://www.deshvidesh.com/2016-myshadi-bridal-expos-year-in-review/ Mon, 05 Dec 2016 17:44:36 +0000 http://www.deshvidesh.com/?p=19804 Dazzling mandaps, gorgeous bridal wear, and the buzz of excited couples were a part of each of the MyShadi Bridal Expos this year. Couples along with their families and bridal parties attended the bridal show in the hopes of marking items off their wedding-to-do checklist. With a wide variety of vendors, from banquet halls and photographers to decorators and makeup ...

Dazzling mandaps, gorgeous bridal wear, and the buzz of excited couples were a part of each of the MyShadi Bridal Expos this year. Couples along with their families and bridal parties attended the bridal show in the hopes of marking items off their wedding-to-do checklist. With a wide variety of vendors, from banquet halls and photographers to decorators and makeup artists, couples were able to meet with many different vendors all in one afternoon.

Fashion shows by the region’s exclusive boutiques offered attendees a look at the latest trends in bridalwear. Well-known DJs created the perfect ambiance in the hall with a listen to a mix of popular Bollywood and Top 40 hits. A festive and celebratory feeling in the air created the perfect background for the MyShadi Bridal Expo, putting all attendees in the mood for wedding and party planning!

This year, a Destination Wedding Pavilion, co-hosted by Proficient Travel, was a part of each show and attendees loved the new addition. Offering couples and families a look at options for planning a destination wedding, the Pavilion brought together venues in Mexico and the Caribbean as well as travel experts.

For a look at what to expect at the MyShadi Bridal Expo, visit www.myshadibridalexpo.com and click on Past Events.

2016 MyShadi Bridal Expos
Visit www.myshadibridalexpo.com to view images and
Wedding Resource booklets for each show.

Sunday, March 20, 2016 Renaissance Waverly Hotel Atlanta, GA Fashion Show Sponsors: Choreography by: Shaveta Jain Nadia Hussain Blush Beauty Clothing by: Shama Collection by Salima Gillani Designed by Parul Jewelry by: Shama Collection by Salima Gillani A La Couture by Ruma Hair and makeup by: Denise Gober Hair Artistry Blush Beauty by Nadia	Sunday, April 3, 2016 Bonaventure Resort & Spa Ft. Lauderdale, FL Fashion Show Sponsors: Choreographed by: Achala Paul Khairun Rajwany Clothing by: Unique Creations Exclusive Fashion Showcase Jewelry by: Unique Creations Hair and makeup by: Anju Thaker Niki Creations	Sunday, April 24, 2016 Innisbrook Golf & Spa Resort Tampa, FL Fashion Show Sponsors: Choreographed by: Traditions Boutique Alisha’s Creations Hair and makeup by: Badar’s Hair & All Tiara Styles Beauty
		Sunday, September 11, 2016 Hilton Orlando Orlando, FL Fashion Show Sponsors: Traditions Boutique Letrend Boutique Hair and makeup by: Michele Renee Hair & Makeup Artist

The post 2016 MyShadi Bridal Expos: Year in Review first appeared on Desh-Videsh Media reaches 1.5 Millions+ Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshi, and Indo-Caribbeans..]]>