Part 2: Shona & Jai's Love Story

Love Knows No Boundaries

Amidst the enchanting atmosphere of coordinating their dream destination wedding, Shona & Jai welcomed the adventure that lay ahead. As hospitality mavens, it was their time to curate unforgettable moments for their family and friends.

Throughout the process, they demonstrated immense respect for each other’s choices, blending their distinct tastes and preferences to create a wedding that truly represented their love. This experience not only brought them closer together but also deepened their appreciation for the individuality they brought to the composing, affirming that every element reflected their shared vision.

A wedding truly reflecting a shared vision.

“We wanted to hold two wedding ceremonies: a traditional Indian, and a Christian one officiated by the pastor of my church. Despite our different backgrounds- Jai’s family being Hindu and mine being Christian- our love knows no boundaries. After enduring a long-distance relationship for almost two years, we thoughtfully planned a four-day festivities to honor both traditions,” recounts Shona.

The Anatara Riverside Bangkok Resort offered a serene setting with tranquil views of Chao Phraya River. Superbly suited for a dream wedding, where the architecture and lush gardens create a picturesque landscape for the various gatherings.  Moreover, the hotel embodies the rich heritage matrix and renowned culinary offerings that the couple wished to showcase, making it an optimal option for their momentous events.

Embracing Individuality

One of the most notable shifts in modern Indian weddings is the emphasis on personalization. Customized vows, interactive guest experiences, tribute areas, choreographed dances, and mixology bars enhanced the celebration. Food Stations featured gourmet and artisan street food options, while bespoke amenities included a hospitality desk set up in the lobby for guest convenience, saree draping, and salon services for women, while the men enjoyed foot massages in the plaza.

Executed with military precision, no detail overlooked, especially the grand entrance to the ballroom in a luxury vehicle! We could hear gasps of surprise and appreciation.

Phoolon ki Chadar!

I spoke with Shona and Jai about advice for other couples who are planning their weddings and any common mistakes often made.

“The best advice I can offer is to avoid procrastinating. Time passes quickly, so it’s essential to stay focused and maintain a clear list of all the tasks that need to be completed,” Jai recapitulates.

“My mom has been my biggest supporter and guide throughout this project. The best part of planning this wedding has been growing closer to her as we enjoy every step of the process together,” expresses Shona.

“I would recommend hiring a strong and experienced wedding planning team. It took us eight months to plan, and while that may seem lengthy, it is definitely necessary for organizing an Indian wedding,” Shona emphasized.

The Heart of Hospitality

In the heart of every jubilant event are the dedicated wedding strategists, whose professional touch transforms dreams into reality. Niramit Creations, also known as ‘the miracle makers’, allowed for the family to relax and enjoy the wedding with peace of mind.

Shona and Jai’s wedding was a vivacious symphony celebrating their narrative of love, woven with threads of tradition. Their nuptial festivities were a dazzling mosaic, blending the opulent traditions of Indian heritage with a modern, cosmopolitan flair.

Throughout the festivities, Shona and Jai’s hospitality expertise radiated. The menus featured a delectable fusion of international cuisine, catering to the diverse palates of their guests. The couple also showcased their design prowess, seamlessly integrating traditional Indian elements with modern, minimalist and contemporary accents.

Indian Wedding Ceremonies

Janya: Also known as the sacred thread ceremony, marks the initiation of adulthood, signifying a man’s readiness and responsibilities toward his bride.

Mendhi: Illustrating the intricacies of love, and the beauty of marriage. Henna on hands, stories unfold, whispers of well-wishes in gestures so bold. Together we cherish, in this sacred embrace, an afternoon filled with magic and grace.

“I have adored the complex art of mendhi since I was a teenager,” enthuses Shona.

Ghari: An essential practice denoting hospitality and the preparations for the new union. A symbol of bliss, a moment not to miss.

Baarat: With resonant drums, the groom’s jubilant parade, A lively procession, where memories are made. Dance fills the streets, as families unite, in a symphony of cheer we all draw near. As he makes his way to the Mandaap, with love all around, to receive his beloved, where happiness is found.

Phoolon ki Chadar: The act of walking under a floral canopy marks the bride’s transition from her parental home to her husband’s home, denoting the start of a new chapter. In the garden of hearts, this moment unfurls, A commemoration of love, as magic swirls.

Pheras: A pivotal part of Hindu wedding ceremony. Around the fire, they move with grace, seven vows exchanged in this sacred place. Each step a promise, each turn a new start, bound by the flames, igniting their hearts. Shona and Jai’s odyssey unfolds, in unity they blossom, a love story told.

Sangeet (Shona’s favorite event): In the heart of evening, where laughter sways, A mosaic of joy in melodic displays. Families gather, with blessings anew, as love fills the air, this Sangeet, our joyous crew.

Family and friends demonstrated their love and support which shone through in each captivating song, dance and speech at every function.

In the course of the events, Shona exuded effortless finesse, fusing tradition with modernity and heritage with originality. She spent quality time with Indian designers in their ateliers, enhancing her distinctive style.

Before the Altar

In a glow of love, where dreams take flight, Shona & Jai stand, hearts shining bright. Before the altar, with visions in their eyes, They rejoice in forever, as their future begins to rise.

In exultant tones, they recited their vows, promising to cherish and support each other through all of life’s seasons. These vows rooted in the Christian tradition of marriage, symbolized their dedication to building a life together grounded in mutual love, respect, and unwavering support.

As they exchanged rings symbolizing their unending love, the couple’s eyes shone with unbridled emotion. The circular shape of the rings represented the perpetuity of their bond, and the act of placing them on each other’s fingers signified their willingness to commit wholeheartedly to one another. Officiant, Pastor David Hestevold, pronounced them husband and wife, solidifying their union in the eyes of God and their community.

Pastor David then delivered an inspiring message on the five love languages- words of affirmation, gifts, quality time, acts of service, and physical touch- reminding everyone of the diverse ways love can be expressed and cherished.

This ceremony demonstrated their deep respect and appreciation for each other’s faith. It was a testament to their belief that love can unite people regardless of distance and that their marriage would be a living embodiment of their shared values of compassion, hospitality, and devotion.

Throughout the festivities, Shona and Jai’s hospitality expertise radiated. The menus featured a delectable fusion of international cuisine, catering to the diverse palates of their guests. The couple also showcased their design prowess, seamlessly integrating traditional Indian elements with modern, minimalist and contemporary accents.

After the ceremony, friends and family gathered to extend their felicitations to the newlyweds. Shona & Jai carried with them a profound sense of love that unites people, irrespective of their backgrounds.