We've been doing wedding photography + videography for over 10 years, but this year we got the opportunity to do something completely new for us. When Ashwini reached out about her upcoming wedding it was an immediate YES from us! Not only are Sid + Ashwini absolutely adorable together but they were having a traditional Indian wedding which is something that has been on my bucket list for, well... forever. The more they explained the traditions and ceremonies the more I wanted to be there. It is a photographer's dream; all the bright colors, dancing, and details.
If you want to skip ahead and see ALL of the photos, go HERE!
The two-day event started on Friday night with the Sangeet taking place underneath the giant whale at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The outfits were spectacular - aren't they the cutest?!
Before the performances, guests enjoyed a delicious buffet of traditional dishes, rode the carousel, and got henna tattoos.
Of course, the most exciting part of the night by far was the performances prepared by the family. The whole crowd gathered around tightly and all eyes were glued to the dance floor!
Even Sid + Ashwini performed - they were so cute together.
Needless to say, there was no shortage of dancing and the rest of the night was full of celebration and love.
After a short sleep, wedding day arrived. Ashwini's day started at 5am - talk about a long day! We were blown away with all of the detail and thought put into this wedding from the traditions and the decorations to the florals and food.
The Fredrick Meijer Gardens' butterfly garden was such a gorgeous backdrop for our portraits of these two.
When it was time for the ceremony, Sid was brought to the Barat where his family danced him down the road to meet up with Ashwini and her family.
The ceremony was full of traditions and symbolism - absolutely beautiful!
After the ceremony, one of the cousins stole Sid's shoe and he had to bargain to get it back. What a fun tradition!
Reception means another outfit change and this time the dress alone weighed more than 50 pounds, not to mention the beautiful jewelry!!
At the reception, family and friends gave heartfelt speeches that left us all tearing up. Then, after dinner, the party took off! I don't think I've ever seen so many people on the dance floor and they did not stop until the final dance and grand exit.
We loved every moment of this wedding and are so grateful that they brought us along with them for everything. For the rest of the preview photos, go HERE!
Shoutout to all the wonderful local vendors that we got to work with at this wedding:
Caterer: Applause Catering + Events
Day of Coordinator: Nicole Gillespie of On This Day Weddings and Events
Photographer + Videographer: Pavé Wedding Productions
Florist: Fleurology Designs Sangeet Venue: Grand Rapids Public Museum
Ceremony Venue: Fredrick Meijer Gardens + Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids
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