We time & again come across NRI wedding tales that reinforce the fact that an Indian- no matter where on the globe- will always be an Indian at heart. And how gorgeously we’ve witnessed the desi vibe through Heena and Anish Patel’s wedding tale!
Heena’s wedding pictures by @photobyrashmirao and @weddingdocumentary relay her deep love for traditions so precisely- it leaves us jaw dropped that this gorgeous lady has never been to India! The US-residing beauty tied the knot with her long-time boyfriend, Anish Patel, with due diligence to the rituals of a traditional Indian wedding.
24 April 2021 was the golden date when close well-wishers of the couple witnessed the new beginning amidst a lush outdoor set-up at the Grand Island Mansion in California, USA. The ceremony was preceded by aesthetic arrangements for the Pithi, Mehendi, and several other pre-wedding cultural essentials.
So, how did these two charming people come together? Was it the first spark or a gradual bonding?
The two beautiful souls shared a great vibe as college friends before stepping into the precious phase of love and oneness. From being moral support during exams to accommodating each other’s varied box-office choices, Anish and Heena fell for each other even before they knew it.
With an acceptance of each other’s imperfections, they nurtured the best out of each other- well, that is what love is all about!
The Proposal Hunt
Sounds like the exciting Treasure or Scavenger Hunt game we played during our teenage years? Yes- and that’s how Anish scripted the dreamy fairy-tale episode with a playful twist. Putting forth a quest to his lady-love during the leisurely hours of their holiday in Kauai, Hawaii, Anish recreated their journey through a written set of clues. Among all finds- Heena’s obvious favorite was a chronicle album of their treasured moments!
Already eager to know what happened ahead? First- let me tell you, the activities were discreetly recorded by a photographer whom Anish had hired well in advance. After all, this Hunt was going to be once-in-a-lifetime! It eventually led a tired but enthusiastic Heena to an aesthetic spot on their resort’s private beach when her man courteously went down on one knee to pop up the question.
Do we hear wedding bells ringing already? The romantic vibe to receive an official tag with a sacred ceremony soon….
And then the wave struck….
The Covid-19 pandemic, while ruthlessly claiming lives, also put a pause on millions of dreams worldwide; Anish & Heena’s wedding tale included. However, with unwavering enthusiasm for the new beginning, the two leaped at a short window to make the Big Day happen- and how well!
Finally….
Those who tied the knot during the pandemic will easily relate to this story. With just four months on the lead, arranging a picture-perfect wedding was a prime challenge for the two. Yet Anish and Heena, determined to infuse life into their wedding dreams, displayed excellent teamwork in coordination with their family and friends.
With a trip to India out of the question, the couple selected their wedding outfits through personalized assistance during a video call with the Asopalav team in Ahmedabad. Her engagement outfit procurement through our video shopping facility was enough assurance for Heena to relax and enjoy the digital experience once again. Above all, she got her favorite lehenga design customized in her preferred shade of red.
While Heena followed her long-held dream of wearing a red lehenga for her ceremony, Anish coordinated with a red dupatta highlighting his white sherwani suit.
So, how did the event turn out? Let’s take a look at some heart-stealing moments from the myriad of functions-
The Pithi Ceremony
Dressed up gracefully in a bright yellow silk saree Heena’s Haldi look takes us on the classic journey of a girl-next-door bride.
The Mehendi Function
With the Indian culture so close to her heart, how would Heena miss out on applying Henna! This beauty smiled wide in a pastel blue lehenga while flaunting her decorated hands with a prominent pre-bridal blush. To be honest, her pictures instantly make me smile too!
The Finale
An intimate wedding in a plush set-up witnessed Anish and Heena celebrating the commencement of a new chapter. While Anish was busy appreciating the bridal avatar of his own sunshine girl, the guests enjoyed a perfect Indian wedding with their lip-smacking savories. A decorated panipuri stall and Anish’s favorite- a live paan counter; now that’s what we call a real Desi Tadka!
Action Replay
Smitten by the magic of Indian traditional weddings- Heena has been crushing over the idea of repeating the celebration- of course- we’d love to be a part of it- again!