We decided to offer 100+ different foods served at cocktail hour, along with special “his” and “hers” drinks and two grand ice sculptures. After the cocktail hour, guests proceeded into the hallway where they were greeted with a large orchid tree, which hung their place cards with their names and table number. Behind the orchid tree was the Palazzo ballroom, magnificently decorated with blush and white tone flowers, filled with giant crystal table pieces and a mirrored DJ booth that had a bar on either side for the convenience of the guests while they were on the dance floor. The reception was our favorite part; it’s where Sam and I greeted the guests behind the ballroom’s curtains, made our entrance down the grand staircase and danced to our bridal party while playing “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay. Our first dance followed our grand entrance, as we danced to Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” withsnowflakes falling from the ceiling. Followed by our first dance, we did a father-daughter and mother-son dance together; symbolizing the unity of both of our families. The dances were followed by performances from both sides of the family, including traditional Bhangra choreographed by my brother and his college team, along with Sam’s cousins who choreographed dances to Bollywood hits. The dance performances and speeches were followed by our cake cutting and a sit-down dinner (catered from Moghul in NJ), served by private butlers who were assigned to each table. It was important for us to not only make sure the guests experienced their dinner but also it was the perfect time for Sam and I to go around and say our thank-yous and also eat with each other.
Post dinner, DJ Suhel opened up the dance floor for all of the guests. It was so amazing to experience their excitement with them and we danced the night away to our favorite songs. About an hour and a half before the night ended, a dessert flame show was presented on the dance floor to announce the opening of the dessert room. The Viennese dessert hour consisted of 200+ different types of Italian desserts. As the guests exited the venue, they were also greeted with a late nightcap of homemade fresh donuts and Starbucks coffee.
Looking back on our wedding day, it was everything Sam and I could have imagined and more. I still remember the feeling while making my thank-you speech and wanting to freeze time; having all of our loved ones in one room for that one moment meant the world to both of us. We wanted our wedding day to be more about the guest’s experience and less about us. My father once told me, “It’s not about the wedding day, but it’s about the marriage”. Our wedding day was perfect, but the marriage that we have created and will continue to create is something that is invaluable. We are so lucky and grateful to have had everything go according to plan. It was the perfect kick-off event to a wonderful “Patwani” life ahead.
Vendors
Photo – Braja Mandala
Planning – Premini Events
Venue – The Venetian Catering and Special Events
Catering – BAPS Mandir Catering
Event design/flowers – Elegant Affairs
Lighting – Magic Moments
DJ – DJ Suhel
Invitations – Ankur Invitation Shop
Hair/Makeup – Style by Susmita
Ice Bar – The Venetian
Video – A&A Video
Lengha – Sabyasachi
Shoes – Jimmy Choo and Christian Louboutin
