-
Kelly and Vivek
Vivek and Kelly’s wedding was a celebration of love, tradition, and beautiful memories, set against the stunning backdrop of The Westin Carlsbad Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, California. The couple, both dental specialists, had known each other for over a decade before tying the knot on October 29, 2023. Their journey began in 2013 during their specialty residency programs at the West Los Angeles VA hospital. Despite attending different dental schools, they chose the same 3-year program, and their paths crossed from the very first day. A month into the program, they went on their first date, marking the beginning of a long and fulfilling relationship.
For nearly nine years, Vivek and Kelly nurtured their bond, collaborating both professionally and personally. Over the years, they navigated the challenges of long-distance, as Vivek worked in San Diego for a year before returning to Los Angeles, while Kelly stayed in LA. Despite working separately, they dreamed of one day collaborating together professionally. In mid-2023, they took a leap and moved to sunny Tampa, where they now co-own multiple dental offices.
BANQUET HALLS The Westin Carlsbad Resort and Spa 760-827-2800 | BEAUTICIAN Vanessa Rene Artistry 949-326-8707 | CAKE The Cake Korner 562-865-3200 ext. 1 | CATERING Mantra Indian Cuisine 909-496-6824 | DECORATOR Tip Top Event Designs 323-402-1500 | EVENT PLANNER Shilpa Patel Events 714-585-8779 | MEHNDI Dimpsi Mehndi Service 858-609-9039 | Mobile Beauty Team 619-414-9048 | MUSICIAN Dancing DJ Productions 619-514-3117 | PHOTOGRAPHER One Story Weddings 562-972-0888 | GaryCoelhoPhotography 562-972-0888 | PRIEST Dharmasetu Das Adhikari 619-300-6542 | WEDDING SERVICES Zola 408-657-ZOLA
Vivek proposed to Kelly during a trip to Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico, in June 2022. The surprise proposal was perfectly planned, though Kelly had no idea it was coming. Vivek had coordinated with the Rosewood Mayakoba to arrange a proposal spot on the beach, complete with a photographer and family members in the know. As they walked along the beach, Kelly noticed a heart drawn in the sand with “V+K” inside. At that moment, Vivek dropped to one knee and popped the question, leaving Kelly overwhelmed with joy and surprise.
The wedding itself was a stunning blend of Indian traditions and Western customs. It began with a welcome event and Mendhi on October 27, 2023, featuring a vibrant color scheme of fall tones, including pinks, salmon, and lavender, complemented by greenery. Birdcages, candles, and flowers such as carnations and dahlias decorated the venue. A particularly special touch was the folding of 1,001 origami cranes by their families. This Japanese tradition symbolizes peace, love, and longevity, and the cranes were incorporated into both the Mendhi and wedding ceremonies, hanging above the sweetheart table during the reception.
As the couple transitioned from the Mendhi to the wedding itself, they hosted a casual lunch in downtown Carlsbad on the day in between, providing a relaxed setting for guests to socialize. The wedding ceremony, held on October 29, was an outdoor Hindu ceremony, complete with a traditional Baarat. The ceremony was officiated by a priest who ensured that guests, many of whom were unfamiliar with Indian wedding traditions, understood the significance of each ritual. The floral decor remained consistent, with the same vibrant colors and flowers from the Mendhi, and the Mandap was kept simple yet elegant.
For the reception, the couple embraced Western traditions, with a white wedding ceremony officiated by a close family friend, Kent Siladi. They re-purposed the flowers from the Mandap and continued the crane theme with the 1,001 origami cranes adorning the sweetheart table and the backdrop. A unique touch was the traditional Japanese sake ceremony, “San San Kudo,” where the couple drank from three stacked cups, symbolizing love, wisdom, and happiness.
The evening continued with a series of dances, speeches, and a cake cutting. The couple’s first dance was to “And I Love Her” by The Beatles, a song that held special meaning for Kelly, having been a lifelong fan of the legendary band. The day concluded with a night filled with laughter, dancing, and cherished memories, marking the beginning of their new life together.
-
Roshni and Parth
Roshni Parikh, a 39-year-old radiologist, and Parth Worah, a 36-year-old nephrologist, embarked on their beautiful journey of love that culminated in a stunning wedding on May 18, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa in Bastrop, TX. With 250 guests in attendance, the wedding was a grand affair, filled with vibrant celebrations, personal touches, and unforgettable memories.
The couple met on Hinge in late 2022 after Roshni relocated to Houston from St. Louis, MO. Their first date at Chuy’s Tex Mex sparked an instant connection, leading to six months of memorable outings, from axe throwing to attending the Houston Rodeo. They soon became inseparable, and after meeting each other’s families, it was clear that their bond was meant to be.
BANQUET HALLS Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa 512-308-1234 | BEAUTICIANS Blush and Glow 832-377-6979 | CAKE Rolands Swiss Pastry & Bakery 713-785-4294 | CATERING Daawat Catering 713-256-5441 | DECORATOR Mandap Creations 832-423-6003 | EVENT PLANNER Rathi Menon Events 281-387-4747 | HORSE Fantasias Carriage 512-914-4966 | INVITATIONS Invitationwala +91 96512 68836 | MEHNDI Nisha Henna Arts
512-961-6662 | Original Henna Company 346-977-0953 | MUSICIAN Desi Junction DJ 281-832-1919 | PHOTOGRAPHER Jennifer Campos Photography
631-358-0709 | VIDEOGRAPHY Epique Cinema 832-487-5342
Parth’s proposal was nothing short of magical. The couple was in Peru for a getaway, where Roshni had arranged a photoshoot. What she didn’t know was that Parth had planned a surprise proposal during the session. As the sun set over the Sacred Valley at the Rio Sagrado Hotel, Parth proposed with a ring surrounded by rose petals, making it an emotional and perfect moment, captured by the photographer.
Planning the wedding was made easier with the help of wedding planner Rathi Menon. Her expert coordination allowed the couple to focus on enjoying their day while Rathi and her team managed all the details. The couple chose the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa for its ideal location—just two hours from Houston—and the resort’s ability to accommodate a weekend-long celebration with family and friends.
The pre-wedding events were a delightful mix of color, culture, and fun. The Haldi ceremony, dubbed the “Color Bash,” featured vibrant hues of hot pink, yellow, and white, with fun games and performances. The Sangeet, themed “The Dhoom Dham Mela,” was a colorful celebration of Rajasthani and carnival influences, featuring a decorated auto rickshaw and a Desi Bazaar for guests to enjoy. The wedding ceremony itself was a beautiful outdoor affair, with the bride’s dog, Max, making a charming entrance in a miniature motorized white Mercedes.
The reception, themed “Soiree ‘A Paris,” was nothing short of glamorous. The ballroom was transformed with red, black, and white décor, featuring a Moulin Rouge canopy and a black-and-white checkered dance floor. Tall white floral arrangements adorned the tables, with personalized touches like red organza potlis filled with chocolates for guests. The reception also featured a love story video that cleverly tied into the couple’s grand entrance.
Music played a key role throughout the celebrations. The first dance, a medley of songs including Ve Maahi and Shape of You, set the tone for the evening. The father-daughter dance to Kudmayi from Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani, and the mother-son dance to Chaoro from Mary Kom, were heartwarming moments that brought tears and smiles to all. The dance floor stayed alive with a blend of Bollywood and Hollywood hits, making for a truly dynamic celebration.
One of the most personal touches was the Sangeet performance, where 16 dances by family and friends told the couple’s love story through five themed episodes. From how they met to the proposal, the production was a unique way to narrate their journey. Another highlight was the couple’s wedding podcast, which featured three episodes documenting their love story, wedding details, and a thank-you message to their guests.
DIY projects added a personal flair to the wedding, with the couple creating everything from personalized water bottles and a wedding newspaper to welcome hampers and a Desi Shopping Bazaar. These heartfelt touches made the wedding feel intimate and special for everyone involved.
The wedding truly had it all: beautiful décor, heartfelt performances, and personal moments that made it one-of-a-kind. For couples planning their own weddings, Roshni and Parth’s advice is simple—”Enjoy the entire process. The wedding planning process can be stressful, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The weekend will go by so fast, but it will stay with you forever.”
-
Vibrant and Colorful Decorations at Indian Weddings
Vibrant and Colorful Decorations
at Indian WeddingsIndian weddings are known for their vibrant and colorful decorations, transforming venues into breathtaking displays of culture and tradition. A riot of colors, featuring shades of red, gold, orange, pink, and marigold, often adorns the setting. Intricate floral arrangements are a hallmark, with fresh flowers like marigolds, roses, and jasmine hanging in garlands, creating an aromatic and festive atmosphere. These flowers often drape over entrances, mandaps (wedding altars), and stage backdrops.
The mandap, the focal point of the ceremony, is typically embellished with rich fabrics, shimmering crystals, and ornate pillars. The use of traditional motifs like paisleys and peacocks is common, rendered in colorful fabrics and intricate embroidery. Brightly colored drapes and canopies stretch across the venue, adding a regal and festive touch.
Lighting plays a crucial role, with strings of fairy lights, lanterns, and diyas (oil lamps) illuminating the space, creating a warm, inviting glow. Rangoli designs, made from colored powders, flowers, or rice, often adorn the entrance and pathways, welcoming guests with intricate and vibrant patterns.
Together, these elements create a mesmerizing, festive ambiance that reflects the joy and celebration of the couple’s union, making an Indian wedding a truly unforgettable experience.
In the next few pages, we will showcase unique photographs from four talented photographers who provided their exceptional services for the wedding we are covering in this issue. Each photographer’s distinct style beautifully captures the essence and vibrant spirit of the celebrations, offering a glimpse into the enchanting world of Indian weddings.
Photos by House of Talent Studio (www.houseoftalentstudio.com )
Photos by John Barone Photography (www.baronephoto.com)
Photos by JSK Photography (www.jskphotography.com/)
Photos by Fine Art Productions (www.fineartproduction.com/)
-
Memorable Wedding Moments
Memorable
Wedding MomentsBursting with vivid and bold hues, opulent décor and intricate but elegant designs very well describe Indian weddings. Also known as Shaadi or Shadi, Indian weddings are best known for their grandeur, traditions, grace, colors and almost carnival-type celebration.
Unique photographs taken at an Indian weddings are made up of warm glances, shared laughter, loving stares, bold colors, elegant mandaps, and unique table settings.
Whether a stolen glance or a planned pose, couples and their families can relive the celebrations through heartfelt moments captured by photographs. Weddings are special events that are celebrated for an entire lifetime through photographs.
John Barone Photography (www.baronephoto.com).Memorable Wedding Moments
-
Risha and Mike
Risha Kohli and Michael Koval celebrated their love on April 6, 2024, at the Loews Hotel Millennium Ballroom in Philadelphia, PA, with 260 guests joining the celebration. Risha, a marketing professional, and Michael, a finance expert, first met on the dating app Hinge in 2021. Despite the pandemic, their initial meeting at Harpers Garden felt effortlessly natural. By their third date, sharing stories and inside jokes at a wine bar, they both sensed something special. Their love deepened through shared experiences, including an international trip to France and Belgium in November 2022. Mike proposed in June 2023, after about 1.5 years of dating, with a surprise proposal in Rittenhouse Square followed by a celebratory weekend with their families.
To navigate their wedding planning, Risha and Mike enlisted a wedding planner to help with logistics and venue details, though they believed it wasn’t strictly necessary. They chose Philadelphia, where they both live, for its personal significance, selecting the Loews Hotel for its unique historical charm. This venue, once the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society, allowed them to incorporate historical elements into their celebration, including signage about the building’s past.
BANQUET HALLS Loews Hotel Philadelphia 215-231-723 | BEAUTICIANS Joseph Anthony Retreat Spa & Salon 215-310-0036 | CAKE Classic Cake Cherry Hill 856-751-5448 | DECORATOR Xtraordinary Events by Vito Russo 267-551-4400 | EVENT PLANNER SLC Event Company 954-591-3611 | INVITATIONS Chick Invitations 215-592-1407 | MEHNDI Hirals Henna Designs 215-760-6565 | MUSICIAN EBE Dreamtime 888-323-2263 | PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHY John Barone Photography 215-620-4214 | Abominable Productions 610-420-7710
Their pre-wedding events were thoughtfully designed. On Thursday, they hosted a ‘Welcome Party’ at Harp & Crown, a speakeasy bar with old-school bowling lanes, which delighted their younger guests. The following day’s Sangeet at the Loews Hotel’s 33rd floor featured breathtaking views of the Philadelphia skyline, enhanced by purple linens, floral centerpieces, and candlelight, creating a nostalgic ambiance.
For the wedding ceremony, the theme was modern elegance with green, white, and shades of purple. The mandap was adorned with white and green flowers and glass pearls, complemented by cherry blossom trees and tall aisle structures. Bridesmaids carried long candles in vases down the aisle, adding a unique touch. The music for the ceremony included an instrumental version of ‘Jashn-E-Bahara’ for the wedding party and ‘Teri Ore’ for the bride’s entrance. Instead of a traditional Baraat, the groom walked down the aisle with his parents while the bride’s parents offered blessings at the mandap, allowing all guests to witness the ceremony in a unique and meaningful way.
The reception decor reflected their color scheme of purple, green, and white. Fresh floral centerpieces, candle orbs, and dynamic lighting transitions—from amber for photos to purple for dancing—set the scene. The couple entered to ‘This Will Be (An Everlasting Love),’ inviting all guests to join them on the dance floor shortly after. The first dance, father/daughter dance, and mother/son dance featured a blend of special songs, including ‘Kudi Nu Nachne De’ and ‘You’ll Be In My Heart.’ The groom’s surprise performance of ‘Mr. Brightside’ was a highlight of the night, energizing the dance floor.
Their wedding incorporated personal touches such as a customized Hindu ceremony script with English explanations and the use of Mike’s family pearl necklace as a replacement for the traditional mangal sutra. DIY elements included signage highlighting the venue’s history and a memoriam table for loved ones who had passed. A special “WOW” moment was the serving of Mango Lassi and Chai right before the ceremony.
Risha and Mike’s advice to future couples is to focus on what truly matters to them and create their own traditions, rather than adhering strictly to norms. They managed to avoid pre-wedding nightmares through meticulous planning, and they still laugh about a minor mishap during the Milni when their fathers’ scarves were humorously misaligned.
