Sheila & Vinayak ~ January 17, 2015

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Sheila and Vinayak grew up together and were best friends throughout the years. Although the ceremony took place January 17, 2015 the bride’s sari was reminiscent of a spring flower in yellow and green. Sheila’s hands and wrists were decorated with henna as well as green, gold and white bracelets. A gold necklace and headpiece were also worn. The groom wore a Sherwani in ivory with a red scarf. The bridal party all wore traditional Indian saris. After the ceremony Sheila changed into an ornate royal blue sari while Vinayak wore a black tuxedo with silver piping and royal blue bowtie.

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For guests, a program described each of the ceremonies:  from the Marriage Ceremony, which took place under the “mandap” or sacred altar, to Welcoming the Groom – Worshipping Lord Ganesh – Renouncing Worldly Pursuits – Honoring the Groom – Arrival of the Bride – Eight Auspicious Verses – Joyous exchange of Matrimonial Garlands, Rocking on the Swing – Offering the Bride’s Hand in Marriage – The Sacred Necklace – Circling the Fire – Sacred Seven Steps – Unbreakable Bond & Toe Ring Ceremony – Complete Offering Away of Oneself – Viewing the Arundhati Star and Blessing the Couple. The ceremonies represented multiple traditions and steps to marriage.

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After the ceremony traditional Indian cuisine was served along with homemade Indian desserts that were provided by guests. During speeches, the bride’s father told a story about how Sheila and Vinayak grew up together and how he gave Sheila a 16th birthday card saying “you make me think about things in a way that I wouldn’t have without you.” A video slideshow showcased the couple’s childhood, friendship and relationship. The groom’s father welcomed Sheila to the family by saying, “you are more a daughter than a daughter-in-law.”

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During the couple’s first dance to Sara Bareilles’ I Chose You the couple shared smiles, giggles and laughter. To add ambiance, the reception room was lit with royal blue up-lighting and an S & V in entwined hearts in white light.

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Favors were gold drawstring goodie bags. The night ended with a Villa Siena signature sparkler farewell. Congratulations Sheila and Vinayak. May your love be like a river that carves deeper with each passing year. We wish you the best!

Photography by: Sameer Soorma Photography

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