Real Wedding

Shipra Arjun and Abhishek Parekh’s wedding was a celebration steeped in love, adventure, and the beauty of shared experiences. Their journey began on a crisp autumn evening at Stony Brook University, where a chance meeting during a dance practice ignited the spark between them. Abhishek was immediately captivated by Shipra, and what started as a simple hello soon blossomed into a deep friendship. Their initial connection was solidified during an unplanned five-hour conversation over a meal at Panera in Long Island, which revealed a promising future together.

The summer that followed was marked by a memorable hike up Mt. Washington, where Abhishek planned to confess his feelings to Shipra. Though nervous, his heartfelt proposal eventually led Shipra to embrace a new chapter in their relationship. Their bond grew stronger through shared adventures, including a notable mishap in Yosemite where they found themselves lost in the woods, only to emerge ith a story to laugh about.

BANQUET HALLS Hyatt Regency Long Island 631-784-1234 | BEAUTICIANS-COSMETICIAN Cinderella Bridez 914-361-9488 | CAKE The Rolling Pin Bakery 631-689-2253 | DECORATOR Exclusive Events 516-942-3925 | EVENT PLANNER Karma Events 516-398-8435 | HORSE Ponies Will Travel 347-725-6447 | MEHNDI Poonam Henna Arts Boston | MUSICIAN DNA Events & Entertainment 516-588-5599 | PRIEST Pandit Krishna Dixit | RESTAURANT/CATERING Tandoor Restaurant & Caterers 718-997-6800 | PHOTOGRAPHER House of Talent Studio 516-644-5454

On February 6, 2022, Abhishek chose Beavertail State Park in Rhode Island for his proposal—a place rich with memories from their time together. The sunny, snowy morning was perfect for his heartfelt question: “I guess this means we’re hiking and getting lost together for the rest of our lives.” Shipra’s joyous acceptance marked the beginning of their wedding preparations.

The couple decided to hire a wedding planner, a choice they found essential for navigating the complexities of their big day. The Hyatt Regency Long Island in Hauppauge, NY, was selected for its all-in-one convenience and modern appeal. Although Abhishek’s family is from Long Island and Shipra hails from Massachusetts, the venue was an
ideal fit for their vision.

Their wedding celebration was held entirely at the Hyatt Regency, with a Sangeet that featured vibrant Indian décor, including traditional elements like matkis, umbrellas, and colorful linens. The ceremony took place outdoors on the garden terrace in the afternoon, where a white wooden mandap adorned with silk flowers and fresh greens set a picturesque backdrop. The aisle was lined with pedestals holding fresh flowers and two decorative elephants, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

For their reception, the couple embraced an enchanted forestry theme. The Grand Ballroom was transformed with three-tier cylindrical vases holding orchids and votives, glass vases with fresh flowers, and chandeliers draped with cascading white wisteria. The bridal party and newlyweds entered through the main door, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.

Classic wedding and Bollywood music filled the reception, with memorable performances by the bridesmaids and groomsmen adding to the celebration. Shipra and Abhishek infused their love for hiking into the event by naming each table after a significant hike they had taken together. They also crafted DIY welcome signs and centerpieces,
adding personal touches that reflected their journey.

Among the highlights was the touching moment when Shipra’s pet turtle made a surprise appearance during the ceremony, and the joy of sharing their wedding cake. The lively dance floor, particularly the spirited wedding party dance, left a lasting impression on everyone present.

Shipra and Abhishek’s wedding was a beautiful fusion of their personal passions and shared adventures, creating a day filled with love, joy, and unforgettable memories.

Sureena Patel, a Digital Content Coordinator, and Kishan Desai, Vice President of Acquisitions, embarked on a journey of love that culminated in a breathtaking wedding celebration. Their love story began at Six Flags in Atlanta during Halloween’s Fright Night. Kishan’s clever conversation starter about Sureena’s Stussy t-shirt sparked a connection that would shape their future.

The proposal was a meticulously planned affair in Houston, Texas, against the backdrop of the James Turrell Twilight Epiphany Skyspace. As the sun set and a stunning light show began, Kishan got down on one knee, and
Sureena said yes, enveloping the moment in pure joy.

With the help of a wedding planner, Sureena and Kishan orchestrated a destination wedding in Fort Myers, Florida,
mindful of the travel logistics for their international guests. The JW Marriott, with its proximity to the airport and flexibility with vendors, proved to be the perfect venue.

The wedding festivities kicked off with pre-wedding events adorned with elegant decor, leading to a ceremony filled with love and unique touches. The reception dazzled with its grand entrance, exquisite centerpieces, and a vibrant atmosphere.

BANQUET HALLS JW Marriott Tampa Water Street 813-613-0136 | BEAUTICIANS Michele Renee The Studio and Salon 813-531-7770 | CATERING Khasiyat Restaurant 407-252-8756 | Saffron Indian Cuisine-Orlando 407-674-8899 | DISC JOCKEY Dhol Beat International 281-808-3328 | EVENT PLANNER Legacy-Productions 951-897-9403 | LIMOUSINES Alpha limousine 813-247-6190 | MEHNDI Bridal Henna 01 727-459-6448 | PHOTOGRAPHER Andrew Kwak Photography 714-604-8226 | VIDEOGRAPHY Epique Cinema 832-487-5342

The couple’s first dance was to “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran, followed by heartfelt father/daughter and mother/son dances. Throughout the reception, a mix of music kept the energy high, culminating in unforgettable moments.

Sureena and Kishan incorporated personal touches into their wedding, ensuring every detail reflected their love story. From DIY projects to surprising performances, their wedding was a testament to their unique bond.  Their advice to couples planning their wedding: Get a planner and embrace the journey, even when faced with unexpected challenges. Despite initial hiccups, they found joy in every moment, cherishing the laughter and smiles that filled their special weekend.

In hindsight, they can now laugh about the power outage at the venue and the last-minute cancellation of Kishan’s baarat boat, turning unexpected setbacks into memorable anecdotes. Sureena and Kishan’s wedding was a celebration of love, laughter,  and overcoming obstacles, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey together.

Zinkal Bhutwala, a 33-year-old physician, and Ravindra Reddy Panumati, a 30-year-old business owner, tied the knot on April 22, 2023. Their wedding took place at the beautiful Florida Rustic Barn Weddings in Plant City, FL, where they also held their reception. They celebrated with 100 guests, sharing their joyous day through their wedding website.

The couple’s journey began through a mutual friend at a tennis court. Their bond grew stronger through regular gym meetings and dinners. Their first official date was a magical dinner cruise, followed by a memorable trip to the Smokey Mountains, which solidified their relationship. After dating for eight months, Ravi proposed on February 13, 2022.

The proposal was a beautiful surprise during a glamping trip at The Lodge @ Runaway Bay in Seville, FL, where they celebrated Ravi’s birthday and Valentine’s Day. Zinkal had planned a special dinner, but it was Ravi who created the unforgettable moment by proposing during the dinner, capturing the event with the help of the lodge owners. The moment was emotional and joyful for both.

The wedding planning was made easier with the help of a wedding planner provided by the venue. The couple had initially considered a beach wedding but found their perfect spot in a barn venue that combined their love for nature and water.

BANQUET HALLS Florida Rustic Barn Weddings
813-363-7935 | BEAUTICIANS Bridal Make Up By Jigna Patel 813-493-0625 | CATERING Khasiyat Restaurant 407-252-8756 | HORSE BFR Carriage Service LLC 863-409-8129 | MEHNDI Mittal Patel | PHOTOGRAPHER Fine Arts Photography 732-939-2104

Pre-wedding events, including haldi and mehndi, were held at home with close family and friends, with decorations done by Zinkal’s family. The wedding ceremony took place outdoors, surrounded by trees with a mandap decorated in pinkthemed real flowers. The groom arrived on a horse carriage, adding a traditional touch to the festivities. The reception was held indoors in the barn, featuring blue and white real flowers. The newlyweds made a grand entrance with their family, dancing their way in.

Music played a significant role in their celebrations, with a first dance medley of “Kashmir Main Tu Kanyakumari,” “Saami Saami,” and “Ranjhana Hua Me Tera,” followed by the father/daughter dance to “Papa Mummy” by Swasti Mehul. The couple added personal touches like a bridal dance entry and giving lottery tickets as return gifts.

Zinkal and Ravindra’s wedding was a blend of tradition and personal style, making it a memorable day for all involved. They advise other couples to enjoy the planning process and consider a wedding planner to alleviate stress unless they have a family member who can take charge.

Aarti Patel, an Accountant, and Nir Mistry, an Athletic Trainer, embarked on a whirlwind journey of love that culminated in a grand wedding celebration at the Le Meridien Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina. Their love story began when Aarti, in Las Vegas for a friend’s birthday, matched with Nir on DilMil, a dating app. Despite the initial distance, they soon discovered they both lived just an hour and a half apart in North Carolina. Two weeks of exchanging heartfelt messages led to their first date at Nir’s gym, followed by a sweet visit to a cookie dough
place.

The proposal was a picturesque mountain sunrise in Asheville, North Carolina, where Nir surprised Aarti with a ring amidst their shared love for hiking and sunrises. With friends hiding behind trees to capture the moment, the proposal left them both overjoyed and surprised.

With the help of a wedding planner, Aarti and Nir meticulously planned their wedding at Le Meridien Hotel, a venue that perfectly accommodated their 800 guests. Despite both being from nearby cities, they chose Charlotte for its vibrant atmosphere.

The wedding festivities included a series of prewedding events, each adorned with unique decor and outfits designed by Annu Creation, Perinaspopup, and others. From Aarti’s personalized Mendhi party to Nir’s colorful celebration at his house, each event was filled with joy and love.

BANQUET HALLS Le Meridien Charlotte Hotel 704-372-9610 | BEAUTICIANS Makeup By Pallak Manocha | CATERING Zayka Indian Cuisine – Raleigh 919-361-5370 | DECORATOR Prashe Decor 972-980-4483 | DISC JOCKEY M4U Events 732-771-9648 | FLORIST Stringed Petals 770-367-5290 | MEHNDI Henna4Happiness by Minaz 704-724-8084 | MUSICIAN DJ NIK 908-636-1765 | PHOTOGRAPHER Bhowmik Dave Photography 980-446-9449 Catch Motion Studio 571-446-0004

The wedding ceremony took place indoors in the morning, with music ranging from Bollywood to Hispanic, reflecting the couple’s diverse tastes. A highlight was their baaraat, with Nir arriving in a McClaren and Aarti in a Lambo. The reception dazzled with its pink-themed decor, with the bride in a stunning Manish Malhotra outfit and the groom in a tuxedo. The evening was filled with heartfelt dances and speeches, including surprise performances from both the bride and groom’s sides.

As for advice to couples planning their wedding, Aarti and Nir emphasize the importance of taking one step at a time, not procrastinating, and, most importantly, enjoying every moment. Despite any funny dreams or calamities leading up to the day, their wedding was a beautiful celebration of love and laughter, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Ashima Madan, a dentist specializing in orthodontics, and Gautam Anand, a physician training in gastroenterology,
embarked on a journey that culminated in a beautiful wedding celebration on December 16, 2023, in St. Petersburg, FL, at The Vinoy. With 400 guests in attendance, their love story unfolded in a series of memorable events.

Their modern romance began on the online platform DilMil. After a week of incessant texting, they had their first Facetime date. Despite the virtual setting, Gautam’s thoughtful gestures, like sending roses and Thai food via UberEats, sparked a connection. Meeting in person on Labor Day weekend in 2021 sealed their fate, and they knew they had found something special.

Gautam orchestrated a pictureperfect proposal during his Internal Medicine residency graduation in June 2022. With meticulous planning, he arranged for a rooftop setting adorned with a glowing “MARRY ME” sign and showered rose petals. Ashima was swept off her feet, and amidst awe, she happily accepted his proposal.

To navigate the complexities of wedding planning, the couple enlisted the help of Premini Events. Choosing The Vinoy in St. Petersburg, FL, was an easy decision, resonating with Ashima’s Florida roots and the venue’s iconic pink façade, matching her favorite color. The wedding festivities commenced with a vibrant Mehndi at Ashima’s parents’ home, followed by a warm welcome party at The Vinoy. The Haldi event and Sangeet were lively affairs, filled with music, dancing, and cherished performances from both sides.

BANQUET HALLS The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club – Autograph Collection 727-894-1000 | BEAUTICIANS Henna Allure 321-444-5911 Renata Estepan Makeup and Hair 305-903-3989 | BOUTIQUES Falguni Shane Peacock India 91 9004765981 Sabayasachi 91 9830593953 | CAKE Sweet Divas Cakery 727-498-6323 | CATERING Chef Gaurav Anand 212-683-4228 | DECORATOR Prashe Decor 972-980-4483 | EVENT PLANNER Premini Events 908-591-4050 | HORSE – CARRIAGE Wind Chase Farm 772-285-3480 | MEHNDI Bridal Henna 01 727-459-6448 Henna Allure 321-444-5911 | MUSICIAN DJ Shilpa 908-227-5795 | PHOTOGRAPHER Dukes Images by Duke Khodaverdian 626-744-9695 | PRIEST Pundit Manikya Sharma 813-484-9568 | VIDEOGRAPHY P. Taufiq Photography 617-407-3700

Despite unexpected rain, the wedding ceremony at The Vinoy exuded magic. Vibrant pink décor adorned the indoor setting, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Traditional Punjabi music filled the air as Gautam made a grand entrance on horseback. The reception dazzled with blue and gold décor, featuring stunning floral arrangements and thematic elements. Ashima and Gautam’s first dance to “Dil Diyan Gallan” set the tone for an evening of celebration, with DJ Shilpa spinning a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Spanish, and English music.

Personalized cocktail napkins featuring their family dogs added a charming touch to the festivities. Ashima’s entrance under a floral canopy held by her brothers and uncles was a breathtaking moment, along with witnessing the live painting by Allison Allianic. The couple advises future brides and grooms to enjoy the wedding planning process and cherish every moment. Thankfully, they didn’t experience any funny dreams or nightmares leading up to the big day, nor any calamities to laugh about afterward. Ashima and Gautam’s wedding was a beautiful blend of tradition, love, and joy, creating unforgettable memories for themselves and their loved ones.