You guys, I pretty much danced my butt off this weekend at a family wedding in Orlando.  This translates to pure exhaustion. 

When I got into Orlando on Friday evening, I hung out with my parents for a few minutes before getting ready for the garba. 

Me and my parents pre-garba

Prior to the wedding, my cousin Bijal and I decided that Friday was our cardio day and that in order to count the garba as a workout we had to go all out.  We literally danced for 3 hours, only breaking for a quick dinner.  The soles of my feet were hurting the next morning!

Me and my cousin Bijal (also known as Bijalben!) at the end of the night

The wedding started at 11:00 am on Saturday, so we were up nice and early.  Although, I could’ve slept in all morning if my mom had let me. 

The wedding was a traditional Gujarati one.  And all the bells and whistles were there – a horse carriage, a full wedding procession from our side (the groom’s side), lots of loud music, traditional décor, etc.

The groom’s carriage

My parents and I were so exhausted after the wedding (when all was said and done it was a little past 4), so we decided to take a “quick” nap.  Ha!  We didn’t get up until 6:30, which is when the cocktail hour for the reception started.  My dad got ready really quickly (men!), while my mom and I needed a little more time.  We figured IST (Indian standard time) would apply, and we were right.  When we made it downstairs at 7:15, most people were just beginning to get food and drinks.  The reception starting a little late worked out in our favor.

Party time!

As with any reception, this one was one big party.  Lots of dancing…with our family at the center of it all.  My dad even did the Gangnam style dance!  It was awesome. 

All in all, it was a great weekend.  I was so happy to see my parents and spend time with family.  The only thing that would’ve made it better was having Vishnu there.  I swear, after June 5th, I’m making him hang out with me ALL the time. 

How was your weekend?  What are your family weddings like?