Wedding Planning Archives - My Inner Shakti

Aek and Adu SAID I Do!

You guys! My little sister is married…Aek and Adu SAID I do (the wedding hashtag was #aekandadusayido)!

Every single event, from the mehndi to the reception, was so much fun. Honestly, there’s no better word to describe it. This wedding had fun written all over it! There was good food, laughter, dancing, late nights, and lots of beautiful emotions.

Of course, my sister looked absolutely gorgeous. She was glowing with happiness every time I looked at her! And Adarsh looked very handsome and had a huge smile on his face at all times. It was just the best!

Some of my favorite moments include hanging out with my grandparents for a week before the wedding, doing garba with close friends and family, performing a dance with my sister that we choreographed in less than a week, waking Aekta up on her wedding day and yelling “it’s wedding time!,” walking my sister down the aisle with Vishnu, watching Adarsh literally carry Aek out of the wedding hall as everyone cheered them on, watching Aekta and Adarsh be introduced as husband and wife for the first time and seeing them break it down on the dance floor as they entered the reception hall…and the list goes on!

Honestly, there’s no way to adequately describe how amazing it all was, so I’m going to stop typing and let some of the pictures speak for themselves!

And with that, it’s time to start packing! Wish us luck!

‘Officially’ Engaged!

written by Parita 15 Comments

My sister and Adarsh (her fiancé) got engaged the “down on one knee” way back in March. This past weekend my parents hosted their religious engagement ceremony (pooja) at our house, so now they’re ‘officially’ engaged!

I (unfortunately Vishnu had to work this weekend) flew into Atlanta on Wednesday night, worked on Thursday, and then went into engagement mode on Thursday evening. While my parents had prepped a lot of things beforehand, there was still lots left to do. For example, on Thursday evening, my mom and aunt made puris (fried bread), mathai (a savory fried snack), and a few other things. We also prepped the mitai (Indian sweets) packages and made the haars (garlands).

We woke up bright and early on Friday morning to make more food and clean. Adarsh, Aekta, and Adarsh’s family, along with a few other family members got in a little after noon. We ate a delicious South Indian lunch and then started to get ready for the pooja.

The pooja started around 6 pm and lasted a couple of hours. Because I wasn’t the one getting engaged (been there done that!), I was able to take pictures and move around a bit.

Unlike some of the other poojas my parents have hosted in the past, this one was small – very close family only (~30 people). It was so nice to hang out with everyone afterwards, including Vishnu’s parents, brother and his girlfriend who all drove up in the crazy Atlanta traffic.

My dad didn’t get the smiling memo!

Adarsh’s family stayed with us on Friday and Saturday so we could get through some of the big ticket planning items, including a four hour visit to the outfit designer and a tour of the wedding weekend venue. Even though we were all so exhausted, everyone rallied and made the most of our time together. This was my first time meeting Adarsh’s family, and I love them already! His little sister is so much fun to hang out with, and his parents are super sweet.

Even though the big day is eight months away, I just know it’s going to be here before we know it. AND I’M JUST SO EXCITED!!!

An iPhone Free Weekend in Atlanta

written by Parita 18 Comments

First, let me address the title of this post. After working out with my sister on Friday morning, I went to pour myself a glass of water from my parents’ Brita water jug not knowing that my sister had just refilled it with more water. As soon as I went to fill my glass, the water spilled all over the counter and my iPhone. I immediately dried it with paper towels and then ran to my computer to figure out what to do next. Per quite a few different forums/websites, turning your phone off and putting it in an airtight container full of uncooked rice for 48-72 hours is the best solution.

So that’s exactly what I did.

On Sunday morning, I woke up and ran downstairs to check on my phone. I told my dad to cross his fingers as we waited. Thankfully, it not only turned on, but the speakers and other functions were also working just fine! Close call…phew!

In a way, I’m kind of glad I didn’t have my phone with me the entire weekend. I was able to spend quality time with my family and get lots of wedding stuff done. An involuntary technology detox of sorts.

On Friday, after working out and showering, my mom and I looked at all the Pinterest photos my sister and I have been pinning for the past few months. A couple hours later, we all agreed on the colors for all of Aekta’s outfits (and some of mine), as well as potential designs. We also talked about the wedding cake and a few other details.

A few hours later, Vishnu’s parents and brother came over for dinner. We had Mexican pizzas and enchiladas along with some of this delicious wine that came highly recommended by my friend Monica…

We also played with Niel’s girlfriend’s dog who joined us for dinner! Her name is Little Bum Bums, and she is the cutest little thing ever! Her energy and antics kept us entertained most of the evening. 🙂

We slept in on Saturday and ate breakfast together. Then my mom and I got to work and sorted through all of her saris and jewelry. Sounds like an easy task, but it took a few hours. I’m glad we did it though because it helped us get organized. I’m not 100% sure how often I’ll be flying back to Atlanta this year, so I wanted us to tick off as many things off our list as possible. We also stopped by the designer’s house to share our ideas and get the ball rolling! Exciting stuff!

Later that evening, I got ready and headed to Roshni’s parents’ house for her brother’s surprise 40th birthday party. It was so much fun hanging out with Roshni and Samir for bit and catching up with people I haven’t seen in a while.

When I got home, everyone was still up so my sister suggested we watch a few home videos (we try to watch different ones every time the four of us are together). So much fun! We laughed until tears were flowing down our faces. It’s so funny how nothing has changed in terms of our family dynamic. We’re a crazy bunch!

Sunday morning was a bit more hectic. My flight was scheduled to depart at 3:30 pm, so Ruchi and I made plans to meet up before I had to leave. She’s in the US for the next six weeks, but if we didn’t make it happen before I left Atlanta this weekend, we wouldn’t have seen each other at all. Even though we only hung out for 20ish minutes, it was still worth it! Hopefully, we’ll get to hang out more the next time she’s here.

Before heading to the airport, my mom and I decided to stop at Lotta Frutta (one of my favorite food spots in the city) for smoothies and sandwiches. By the time we got there and ordered our food, it was 2:00 pm. We were told our wait time was about 15 minutes. At this point, I was super nervous because travelling out of the Atlanta airport is always a little unpredictable. Well, we got our food at 2:20, ran to the car, and made our way to the airport. By the time my mom dropped me off, it was 2:35 pm. The security process took a little longer than anticipated, but I made it to my gate just in time! And while cutting it close like that isn’t my thing, I have to admit that the smoothie and sandwich were well worth the stress! I love Lotta Frutta!

And just like that, it’s Monday. I miss my parents and sister A LOT but am also happy to be back with Vishnu and look forward to settling into a routine once again.

Wedding Video Trailer

written by Parita 16 Comments

Time is flying! I can’t believe I’ve been in Atlanta for three days already.

I’m currently at Vishnu’s house spending time with his mom. Some people might cringe at the thought of hanging out solo with their MIL for a couple of days…but not me. I love my MIL! You wouldn’t necessarily know it, but she’s super in the know with pop culture news, recent fashion trends, and all the good TV shows. We watched The Voice together last night. It was fun. And not only is she hip, but she’s also funny as all get out (and half the time she doesn’t even know it)! Never a dull moment I tell you.

Other than hanging out, I haven’t been up to much else. And it’s awesome! I mean, I miss Vishnu and all, but not having to commute in rush hour, worry about cooking, do laundry, etc…simply amazing. My mom makes me feel better about my laziness by telling me it’s well deserved. She knows being a new wife isn’t easy. 😉 Thanks, momma!

While some of my laziness may be well deserved (at least my mom thinks so), there are a few external factors adding to it, including OUR WEDDING VIDEO TRAILER!!! Our videographer sent it to us at 11:00 pm on Sunday, and I’ve probably watched it 20 times since then! Raj at JAR Films did an absolutely amazing job! The three short minutes perfectly capture all the emotion and fun from the weekend! Click on over if you want to watch some wedding fun! And if you do, let me know what you think!!

Well, off I go to do some work (so.hard.to.concentrate). Have a great Tuesday y’all!

The Reception aka PARTY!

written by Parita 8 Comments

Sadly, this is my last wedding post! It’s been so much fun looking back on all of the events and sharing the details. At least I have it all documented here on the blog…for those nostalgic days.

With that, here’s our reception recap…

Vishnu and I only had an hour to rest before we had to get ready for the reception. Talk about exhaustion!

I headed back to the conference room to get my hair and makeup done. I must give a shout out to my makeup artist, Cabby at Adamo Artistry, because she was absolutely amazing. I would recommend her to anyone getting married in the Atlanta area – so professional, friendly, and talented! The way she did my eyes for the reception blew me away! She took the main colors from my outfit and blended them together perfectly. LOVE!

Once Vishnu and I were both ready, we met with our photographers for a pre-reception photo session. And after that, it was cocktail hour time! Many couples don’t go to cocktail hour, but Vishnu and I wanted to spend time with the people who made the effort to be with us on our special day.

Once all of the guests headed into the ballroom, the MCs (our friends Sweeti and Samir) began the program with family introductions. Vishnu’s parents entered first, followed by my grandparents (they were so cute and so proud). My parents went next, and they surprised the audience with a choreographed dance. Talk about cute! They practiced for weeks! Next up was Vishnu’s brother who walked in to “I’m Sexy and I Know It.” My sister followed him and walked in to “Yeah” by Usher. They both wore sunglasses and broke it down on their way in!

Next up came me and Lil’ Jon…

Haha! Vishnu and I walked into “Snap Yo Fingers.” Vishnu channeled his inner Lil’ Jon…Rasta wig and all! Vishnu’s cousin posted a video of our entrance on Facebook, and I want to share it on the myinnershakti page but have no clue how….help!?

The rest of the program was so much fun! First, we shared the love story video that was filmed weeks prior (it basically gave our guests an inside look into our relationship). Again, I wish I could post it here but have no clue how. There were also touching speeches, Bollywood dances, and a hilarious skit put on by our friends. It was amazing to see how much effort people put in to ensure that our reception was a true reflection of us.

Next came dinner and then…dancing! Everyone was on the dance floor at one point or another, even my grandparents! Both Vishnu and I had an absolute blast dancing the night away with our favorite people! It truly was a night to remember!

Now that I think about it, there will be one more wedding post – call it the finale if you will. Once our professional pictures come in, I want to share them and showcase Amy and Brandon’s beautiful work.

Aww…wedding recap posts are officially done. Boo!

Hope you’ve enjoyed!

*****

Next up, DC for a work trip. Vishnu will be joining me this weekend. We plan on spending time with friends, exploring new parts of the city. AND eating yummy food! Can’t wait! Our first trip as a married couple…woot!

The Wedding…We Do!

written by Parita 20 Comments

On June 30, 2012, I married the love of my life!

The ceremony was absolutely beautiful and perfect in every way. Getting married is a lot of fun!

I woke up at 5:45 am, took a quick shower, and headed downstairs to get ready in a specially designated conference room. The makeup artist did my makeup while the stylist worked on my sister’s hair. Such a fun process. My mom joined us two hours into the morning and watched with such happiness in her eyes. She was so cute!

Because I knew that by the end of the wedding ceremony I would be a huge mess, Vishnu and I decided to do a “first look” and pictures before everything officially started. Seeing each other before the ceremony goes against tradition, but honestly, it was the best decision we made. It wasn’t too hot, my makeup was fresh, and it was actually a great way to relieve any stress that we were feeling.

A preview picture Amy, the photographer, sent me a few weeks ago…

After our photo session with our siblings and my bridesmaids, we parted ways. Vishnu headed to a pre-wedding religious ceremony with his family, and I headed back to the conference room to hang out and eat lunch.

Around noon, some of my bridesmaids headed outside to see what was happening with the baraat.

Let me explain…

Vishnu and his family and friends all met in the back of the parking lot where a horse carriage was waiting for them. Once Vishnu’s side made it to the front of the hotel, they were greeted by my family. Before heading to the ballroom, everyone danced to Bollywood music. And get this, it was over 100 degrees that day. Some of our friends were soaked in sweat. That’s how you know it was a good baraat.

Before Vishnu was officially welcomed by my family, he and and his friends did a pre-game chant. For those of you who are football fans, the chant was inspired by Drew Brees. The only difference between Vishnu and Drew was that Vishnu chanted about his shoes.

This brings me to another fun tradition – stealing the grooms shoes. I have no clue how this one started, but the basic gist is that the bride’s side has to steal the groom’s shoes and keep them hidden until the end of the ceremony. If they are successful in doing so, the groom has to pay them big bucks. Vishnu ended up dishing out $210 for his shoes – my side prevailed! It was quite the fight though…

And yes, that is Vishnu’s brother lying on the floor. I don’t even know.

Anyways, before I knew it, it was my time to enter the ballroom. Vishnu’s little cousins, the flower girls, led the procession. Next came the most amazing bridesmaids ever! And then it was my turn!

I had been dreaming of that walk down the aisle for as long as I can remember. And it was better than I ever imagined – I can’t even put into words what I was thinking and feeling. I just know that I’ll never forget it. Ever.

Once I made my way into the mandap (an Indian altar), the pandit (priest) performed a number of ceremonies, including the giving away of the bride by her parents (Kanyadaan), walking around the fire, and taking the seven steps together. And just like that, we were declared husband and wife!!!

Before I knew it, the group pictures were over, and it was time for the vidai (the bride’s farewell). Vidais are incredibly sad, and mine was no different. I cried…a lot! So did my family, especially my mom. Even though I’m still my parents’ daughter and my sister’s sister and everything else I was before, it was an emotional moment that marked my new role in life, that of a wife, daughter- in-law and sister-in-law.

After the vidai, Vishnu and I headed up to the honeymoon suite to relax for an hour or so before the reception madness began…

One more wedding recap to go!

The Garba

written by Parita 18 Comments

It’s been exactly one month since our wedding! CRAZY! When I mentioned this to Vishnu over the weekend, he looked at me and shook his head in amazement. We just can’t believe its been 30 days since our big day!

We spent this weekend with Vishnu’s brother Niel. It was a jam packed few days – “The Dark Knight Rises” (amazing movie), a soccer game (Chelsea vs. AC Milan), South Beach Miami, two fro yo stops, and lots of delicious food. So much fun!

*****

The third wedding event was the garba. Garba is a traditional dance that originated in Gujarat (the Indian state that my family is from). The dance is performed in a huge circle around pictures/statutes of different Indian gods.

After the vidhi, Roshni and I left to get my hair done. As I said months ago, I had a very specific vision for what I wanted, and I think it came true…for the most part. The stylist used hair extensions, and until we got to the hotel, I was totally ok with them. But once the curls started to relax, the whole thing looked awkward…

I kept telling my friends that I wanted to cut the extensions off. So with a lot of hesitation, Sweeti and Roshni did what I wanted and cut them off. Looking back, the whole situation was hilarious…and a little scary!

The only other hiccup that occurred was that the event started later then scheduled. The elevators were running super slow (and one was totally out of commission), and some of our guests had to wait upwards of 20 minutes to get down to the ballroom. It was kind of irritating, but I got over it pretty quickly.

All in all, we had such a blast at the garba. Everything was perfect – the décor, the food, the music, etc. People were dancing until the very end!

We also held a mini program halfway through. Vishnu’s cousin gave a beautiful speech, our friend Jetan gave a hilarious and slightly embarrassing speech about the early days of mine and Vishnu’s relationship, family members performed a couple of choreographed dances, and my sister and I did a surprise Bollywood dance. Vishnu had no clue that I was going to perform!

Monica and Purvi were the MCs for this program, and they were super funny. They put together a rap to introduce themselves, told funny stories about me and Vishnu, and showed everyone a “Parita survival bag” that included a Jillian Michaels DVD, a fly swatter (because I hate bugs), and a few other things are very me! So much fun!

The garba ended around 11:30 pm. Vishnu and I headed to our individual rooms for the last time in our lives! I took a quick shower and headed straight to bed. My alarm was set for 5:45 am…

Up next…the WEDDING! Smile