Our first time in South Carolina and I couldn't have imagined a better reason for a visit than Neha and Akshey's Hindu wedding.
It's early in downtown Columbia, at Courtyard by Marriott, but our bride is almost prepared for her special day.
Simona puts her camera down for a second to try fashion design:
I find Akshey in another room. He's good to go, sort of:
Aunty came all the way from India to help him get ready:
All dressed up, we take the party outside, under the baking sun of South Carolina:
The atmosphere heats up even more when the groom gets on his horse and the baraat kicks off, outside the Metropolitan Convention Center.
His whole family joins in the procession and they all follow the rhythm of the dhol.
The bride's side is welcoming them and they can't help but share the excitement.
Known as milni, the formal greeting between the families couldn't be more enthusiastic:
Akshey can now officially enter the premises.
Or so he thought.
There's a toll to be paid, but he's willing to give everything to see his bride.
The money exchange hands and everyone can step inside to enjoy the much needed AC.
The baraat marches on and the groom is now led by his father-in-law and Noori, his sister-in-law:
Lord Ganesha has been waiting patiently inside the ballroom:
The first puja is dedicated to the 'Remover of all obstacles' to ensure an auspicious and harmonious occasion.
A successful accord between Akshey and Neha's father has been reached, so the bride can walk in during the Kanya Agman.
Jaimala consists of the the couple exchanging flower garlands, acknowledging their lifelong commitment in front of all present:
That's when the live broadcast of the event can begin:
Vedic scriptures say there's no greater gift than offering a daughter's hand in marriage. Akshey is honored to accept it:
During the Mangal Phera, the bride and groom circle four times the sacred fire.
After each round, they give offerings to Agni.
Saptapadi is the most important part of the ceremony. The couple hold hands and take seven steps together, making seven promises:
At the end, there's blessings for everyone in form of rose petals and sweets:
Akshey gets his shoes back, and the Vidai ceremony follows.
In a sentimental outburst, Neha bids farewell to her family.
There's not a single cloud in the sky, but South Carolina Statehouse offers a little shade that we can use for bridal portraits.
We still have a reception to attend on the same evening, so the newlyweds put on fresh outfits.
Everybody gathers once again inside the spacious Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center:
Shout out to Neha's uncle, Pawan, who came all the way from Texas to give us a shout out.
Before you can say balle balle, the dance floor fills up.
You know that feeling when the stars align, and by stars I mean the DJ lights, and you are able to get some cool FX shots.
Simona is getting really good at this, too.
Congratulations one more time, Neha and Akshey! Thank you so very much for welcoming us in your home and city. Hope to see you again soon!
love.more.cosmin
Vendors 'n' Things:
Wedding & Reception Venue - Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, South Carolina
Beautiful Decor - Carolina Wedding Belle
Delicious Catering - Delhi Palace
Bridal Photoshoot - South Carolina Statehouse
Sound of Music - DJ Rohit Aulakh
Energizing Dhol Player - Jagroop
Friendly Videographer - Jason Drake
International Second Shooter - My Talented Girlfriend Simona
Hindu Marriage Photographer - International Wedding Photography
You like? You want? Let's make it happen:
cosmindanilaphoto@gmail.com
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