Amit & Harini // Aliso Viejo, CA

July 14, 2010

We’ve finally shot our first Indian wedding…and we absolutely loved it! We can’t begin to thank Amit & Harini enough for allowing us to participate in such a beautiful tradition. Congratulations to both of you!!

The whole experience was split into 3 separate events over 3 days. The first night was the Gaana which was more an informal event where their close friend’s and family  gathered to kick off the wedding celebrations together (and sing some karaoke).

The following evening was the “bridemaking” event where the elders, especially the women, blessed Harini to become a bride. This is also where most the guests received henna artwork on the hands, arms, and feet. In fact, the henna artist actually convinced Matt and I to get some artwork on the backs of our hands. We were skeptical at first given the long line of all women and no guys getting henna done. In the end though, we caved because the henna was just too awesome to pass up. We never did get a straight answer though whether guys are supposed to get henna or not….

On the third day, we started bright and early (4:30am) filming Harini, her sister, and her mom getting ready for the main ceremony later that morning. The whole wedding, ceremony and reception, took place at Soka University in Aliso Veijo which turned out to be an amazing location. Credit must be given to Sheryal Rozelle of Unique Elegance for orchestrating such a gorgeous event! The ceremony was situated on the far side of a large pond (or small lake) with two long pathways acting as bridges through the water. It was in the middle of one of these bridges that we shot the first look. We definitely could not have asked for a more cinematic moment.

I could go on forever about the colors, decor, food, and the ocean of other details that kept us riveted behind our cameras…but it’s probably best just to show you! So, if you haven’t already, go watch the wedding film above and let us know what you think by leaving a comment below. Enjoy :)

Featured On: MaharaniWeddings.com

Vendors:

Photographer: Israel Anderson (Anderson Photograpy)
Wedding Consultant: Sheryal Rozzelle  (Unique Elegance)
Florist: Alex Amedi (Square Root)
Hair & Makeup: Couture Beauty
DJ: Infamous L.A. Dee Jay
Catering: Manohar’s Delhi Palace
Mehndi (Henna): Lishma (Beauty by Lishma)

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