It’s yet another day to share a new love story with you all! Every wedding tale is extra-special because love, itself, is a feeling out of this world. If you believe in the magic of new beginnings, here’s one journey that will make you smile.
This beautiful fairy-tale from Australia is about the gorgeous, happy-go-lucky girl Astha and her Main Man, Manish. 20th December 2021 marked the cherished commemoration for the couple, who took their journey ahead with wedding vows. The lush and ultra-sophisticated interiors of the Vogue Ballroom, Melbourne, made a perfect backdrop for the traditional Indian wedding.
Beautiful pictures by Shaadi Capture give us a vivid narration of the sacred ceremony. Asopalav made it to Manish & Astha’s precious moments through customized bridal & groom wear. Mona Asht Makeup did its share of creative work by enhancing Astha’s bubbly charm.
A friendly chat with the newly wedded bride takes us onto her dream journey that turned real in the most splendid way. Read on the special moments that Astha highlights from this adorable story of her life-
Was it love-at-first-sight? Or was it a gradual progression towards a lifelong bond?
Love is a precious feeling- it is a journey without a schedule. Our story could be best described as a bit of both. We went through the ‘initial spark’ and gradual understanding phases. Every little thing has been an essence, adding strength and flavor to a life-long bond. We have interacted as friends, mentors, and partners. The multitude of roles has enhanced our relationship.
What made you choose him as your partner?
I only followed my heart! When destiny brings the right person, things are bound to go ahead. Manish’s self-inspiration towards his ambitions made me feel energized. Apart from being excellent in his work, Manish is an empath and has deep-rooted family values. His kindness and humble nature drew me towards him. His connection with his family was also a magnetic force that made me want to be in his inner circle.
A memorable moment from your first meeting-
He was so nervous! Although a confident person, Manish’s spontaneous shyness and inability to make eye contact left me smiling ear to ear. I found that really cute. At that moment, all I wanted to have was an endless chat with him.
We’d love to know Proposal Story!
This was the moment that I had visualized well. I had dreamt of being surprised with some fairy-tale scene, although I never mentioned it to Manish. Now, when I look back, I feel so grateful for that moment that my hubby created so beautifully. He picked me up from the airport under the pretext of attending a friend’s birthday bash.
I was in a state of confusing thoughts and doubts because he turned up quite overdressed for the occasion. The drive did end up at the birthday party, and everything was normal until midnight- when Manish took me to the backyard.
The place was a dreamy sight. Pictures from our special moments hung everywhere- the lights, the soft music, the flowers- it was all mesmerizing. And while I was processing it all, Manish went down on one knee, and the rest is history.
How did you go about having your dream wedding- theme, arrangements, and more?
We had dreamt of having a royal destination wedding in my hometown, Jaipur. While the event preparations had commenced, the pandemic ended our wedding plan. Eventually, we shifted the venue to our residence city, Melbourne.
Having changed the venue to a place far away from our homeland, making wedding arrangements was a big challenge. Thanks to the internet and facilities like video shopping, we could at least get the prettiest things for our Big Day, including our wedding garments.
Eventually, even though the wedding didn’t end up as we had initially planned, we couldn’t have asked for a better day.
What made you choose these particular wedding outfits?
I have grown up in Australia, but the Indian culture stays close to my heart. I believe in being rooted in my country- the wedding had to be all about traditions. A red lehenga is synonymous with Indian bridal wear. It was hence an essential part of my ceremony.
Since I only had online sources to procure an authentic Indian wedding lehenga with luxurious handwork, I optimized technology to get the best. The red lehenga from Asopalav instantly struck a chord with my visions. It was a beautiful, classic design made with intricate embroidery work. I was blessed to have found my dream outfit despite travel constraints to India.
Was it easy to buy Indian wedding outfits?
Honestly, I wasn’t comfortable with the idea of buying my wedding outfits online. But I wanted a strictly made-in-India wardrobe; the Covid-19 restrictions left me with no other option but to do online shopping.
But to be honest, the experience of buying my wedding lengha from Asopalav was way better than my expectations. I had around four video call consultations with the online team. The stylist and Personal Shoppers gave me options that matched my requirements, so the selection process was easy.
I was also taken aback by the effort put by the team to ensure perfect measurements and make all customization requests that I made. Even Manish bought his wedding sherwani through video shopping. We both are delighted beyond words with the service, and of course, the garments- they were excellent!
Would you like to share highlights from your wedding?
That moment- when everything seemed to have stood still. Manish saw me walking in wearing my red lehenga. His jaw dropped, and his eyes sparkled. That scene is a cherished memory, a treasured one.
One moment from your wedding day that you’d like to repeat.
Oh well, I came in dancing- like New Gen Bollywood Dulhaniya! It was so much fun, living the moment in its delightful vibe. After all, these little things make a special day even more memorable, right?