A Traditional Indian Wedding is a 3 day celebration,sometimes more. The colors are bold and loud, the smell of Indian spices in the air and the energy of 300+ guest.
The first evening is the Ganesh Pooja, usually at someones home for a more private setting. The couples, their bridal party and close relatives are usually the only ones to attend.
On our second day, we attended the bride’s Mehendi Party. She was joined by her girlfriends, and female family members. An artist drew intricate henna patterns on their hands,arms and feet, each one different and very detailed. She did all these by hand, it was beautiful.
Later that evening was the Sangeet, where the couples families are introduced.
The evening is filled with mingling, lavish treats, dancing, games and other performances. Everyone on the guest list joined the festivities.
And the third starts the Baraat, cocktail hour, the ceremony and reception. The baraat is the Big Bang that starts the wedding off in full swing. This takes place while the Bride is getting ready for the ceremony. Traditionally the groom will ride to the venue on a white horse, and all the close male relatives of the groom wear turbans as a symbol of honor. Unfortunately they weren’t able to locate a white horse for their wedding, so they settled for the next best thing.
A white Lamborghini. Genius.
After the grooms arrival, the procession begins. Close friends and family will lead the group, while beating Dhols. The Dhol is an Indian Drum. The grooms party forms dance circles around the groom and everyone sings and dances. They slowly make there way around, this sometimes taking longer than 20 minutes.
And after 3 days of nonstop celebration, the Ceremony is ready to begin. The decorations for this wedding were extravagant, and had beautiful details.
The priest, groom, bride and bride’s parents sit beneath a mandap, a canopy similar to a Jewish chuppah.
Lakeway Spa and Resort has a beautiful Venue, and being on the water is a nice perk. Thanks to the venue, perfect weather, friends and family this Indian Wedding was a huge success.
Capturing memories and telling stories, one wedding at a time.
