The first part of the wedding was the Mehndi - the eve before the wedding, the bride and groom each have their own processions to a stage prepared for them. Friends and family come on stage to feed them sweets and offer blessings for a long, prosperous, sweet and happy marriage. From what I understand, this event is more relaxed and extremely celebratory in nature. There was dancing, and the women sang about the groom taking Sabina away. Rod and Sabina's was filmed by a news crew doing a documentary on multi-cultural weddings, which added a nervous excitement to the entire event. There was a henna station also, and I was able to get my own simple henna done! Some of Sabina's friends and family, including her sister Nila, made up dances and performed for her. They did a kind of dance-off to start with; a ethnic dance from the first group, then the American girls interrupted and shook their stuff. They all came together at the end as a large group, and pulled Sabina into the middle! There was a scarf dance and then two young girls performed a really amazing routine to ethnic music. All of the dancing was beautiful, and I could tell Sabina really enjoyed the show. Then the dance floor opened up and the party began!
The next day was the wedding. I showed up at Sabina's parents' home to photograph her getting ready. When all was said and done, she looked stunning! Her sari was a rich, warm, vibrant pink accented with gold. Rod showed up at the last minute and got ready in about 5 minutes, which was funny because Sabina's make-up artist had been at work on her for hours!
From Sabina's house we headed to St. Charles to do portraits at Blanchette Park, which has a beautiful flower garden. We didn't have a lot of time, but still got some really beautiful shots. From there it was on to the Sheraton at West Port for the ceremony! The stage was absolutely beautiful! Adorned with pink and red roses, with plush red chairs and couches to match, and lighted, shimmery white carved pillars...it was very dramatic. The religious ceremony was understated and sweet as it was serious and sobering. The gravity of marriage was conveyed very well. But the event was not without laughter and smiles, especially when Rod's friends roasted him!
Everyone there was very sweet and Sabina's family especially was very gracious. It was a beautiful few days and I extend my happiest congratulations to these two! Enjoy the pictures!
How beautifully you wrote of this special event, and in such a descriptive manner that I felt as if I was there as well, perched on your shoulder taking it all in.
ReplyDeleteThe photos are gorgeous.