28/05/2024
Celebrating Love Across Cultures! ✨
Last weekend...what an incredible weekend it was!
A wedding celebration that was several years in the making! Not only in the planning but our connection with the brides family goes way back to my grade school days (STS!) and a reconnection over the years at other weddings.
Last weekend wouldn't have been possible without the tireless efforts of the incredible women who brought it all together for us. A special shoutout to the mother of the bride, Kathy and our stunning bride Jessica, whose wisdom, grace, and attention to detail made every moment magical.
Also, a huge thank you to our handsome groom Suraj and his beautiful family, whose guidance, vision and passion helped infuse the Indian traditions in every aspect of this celebration. The blending of traditions ensured every guest felt cherished and included and honoring both of your cultures was nothing short of extraordinary.
From the vibrant colors of traditional Indian ceremonies to the classic elegance of American traditions, this wedding was a beautiful fusion of two rich cultures.
The festivities kicked off Saturday with the American ceremony, where the bride and groom exchanged vows surrounded by their loved ones at St. Augustin’s Catholic Church followed by a beautiful cocktail hour and reception at The Surety Hotel. It was a moment of pure magic and bliss!
As the sun set, the reception transitioned into a vibrant Mehndi ceremony, where intricate henna designs adorned the hands of our bride, family and guests, symbolizing love and joy. The air was filled with laughter, music, and the tantalizing aroma of delicious Indian cuisine.
The Sunday morning festivities began in true Indian style with the lively Baraat procession on a beautiful sunny morning! Music echoed through the streets of downtown Des Moines as the groom made his grand entrance, surrounded by family and friends dancing joyously! It was a spectacle to behold, filled with laughter, music, and pure excitement! Then came the mesmerizing Indian wedding ceremony, steeped in centuries-old traditions and symbolism. The sacred fire, the vows, the exchanging of garlands - each ritual infused with deep meaning and love.
We were incredibly grateful to have been a part of this amazing weekend and witnessing the celebration of love!
Cheers to Jessica and Suraj on new beginnings and your beautiful journey ahead as you embark on your adventure together! Here's to love, laughter, and happily ever after! ❤ ❤
And now a HUGE shout out to the vendors who made this day so incredibly beautiful – a special mention to Sergio and the staff at the Surety Hotel, Megan and your team from Wildflowerflower, and Laura Wills Photography for capturing the most incredible memories that we are highlighting here!
All photos shown here are a credit to Laura Wills Photography!
Ceremony and Reception: St. Augustin’s Catholic Church and Surety Hotel
Floral and Décor: Wildflower
Photographer: Laura Wills Photography
Videographer: Bailey Creative Co.
Entertainment: Quartet 515, Chris Ranallo ( Decoy ), DJ Rama
Cake/Dessert: Parinda Cupcakes, Glorious Desserts, LLC.
Hair and Makeup: Ivy Boyd – Makeup, Kelsey Petersen - Hair
Transportation: Charters on Vine LLC, Luxxor Limousines
Hotel Accommodations: Surety Hotel
City of Des Moines/ Des Moines Police: Thank you for the support during the Baraat! We appreciate you!
