Mehndi, Baraat, Henna…A Beautiful Indian Crowne Plaza Greenbelt Wedding

Indian weddings are so beautiful, colorful and full of non-stop fun!! From Mehndi night, to the last song on the on the wedding day, there is no time to sit, as there is always some fun event going on, not to mention the vast amounts of coffee I consumed.

Starting with the Mehndi night, Andrea & Aarik kicked off their wedding weekend in style. As I was setting up, the guests started arriving all dressed to the nines in their colorful and elegant Indian Saree. There was even a table full of bangles and bindis for their guests to accessorize with. They also had a henna artist for those who wanted to take part. Then the dances started. Andrea and her bridesmaids treated guests to a fun and enchanting choreographed dance. Then Aarik and his groomsmen took the stage by storm and shook the walls. Even Aariks’s parents had a special dance they performed for the couple. The night was full of love, laughter, tears, food, and joy, A perfect launching off event for the wedding the next day.

The next morning came early, but I was so excited to see what the day would bring after such a fun time the night before. As I walked into the Crowne Plaza Greenbelt Marriot I had to sit back for a minute and take in the beautiful atrium of the newly renovated hotel. Andrea’s Bridal suite was also newly renovated, but it did not compare to the smile I was looking at on Andrea’s face. Her personality naturally fills the room, from her sassiness to her sweet disposition, Andrea made it a fun time for everyone involved. After her mom and girls helped her into her dress, it was time for her henna artist to finish the beautiful and detailed design down the middle of her back in white henna.

After a brief getting ready prep shoot with the boys in their room, I collected the 9 groomsmen and headed outside for a little more room for the boys shoot. These guys looked striking, elegant and debonair in their blue tuxedos. Shot after shot, they were killing it and me. They went from goofing around, to serious, and then a super emotional moment when all the guys laid their hand on Aarik.

When we got back, it was time for more family photos and the Baraat. All 300 guests shuffled outside to walk, dance and serenade Aarik on his processional. Aarik climbed up on an elaborate, ornate carriage pulled by a beautiful white horse. As the musicians started, everyone began dancing, hugging, kissing and just a genuine outpouring of love. It was a short walk to where the two families would greet each other and bless the union of Andrea & Aarik.

The reception kicked off with a first dance from the heavens, as they had a fog machine and sparklers going off. All giving the illusion of dancing on the clouds and shooting stars. Then came the tears as the parents welcomed everyone and began their speeches. It was not long after when are all laughing out loud as the maid of  honor and best man gave their speeches. A little food, a little drink and right back to family and friends photos on stage with the couple. I could talk all day about the stage itself.

Elaborately decorated with a white couch, 3 chandeliers, massive vases filled with red and white roses to complement the red crush velvet curtains being used as a backdrop. As I turned back to the stage, the specialty dances had just begun. First a group of friends, then the parents and some family members. Did I forget to mention there was also the Cake Cutting, Bouquet Toss and more dancing so everyone could join in. I love photographing Indian weddings so much fun and non-stop action. Elegant dressed guests with bright colors and henna all wrapped up with endless love and support for the new couple. All-in-all a couple of days I will not soon forget!

Congratulations to Andrea & Aarik!!!

In addition to their wedding photos, I hope you enjoy these pre-wedding photos of their Mehndhi night celebration, also held at Crowne Plaza Greenbelt.

Maryland Wedding Photographer – Weddings by Lee
Washington DC Wedding Venue – Crowne Plaza Greenbelt
Coordinator/DJ – Kundan Events – Gurjeet Singh and Angad Sandhu
Supporting (amateur) Coordinator – Annie Vital
Videographer – Yours Video – Raj
Decorator – Lemon Decor – Alena Kantsavenka
Cake – Classic Bakery – Areen Movsessian
Bridal Hair – Nastashia ‘Stassi’ Edwards
Wedding Dress – Couture Bridal of Maryland
Bridesmaids Dresses – Azazie Bridal
Groom and Groomsmen Attire – K&G Fashion
Officiant – Pastor Ben Wikner

Baraat Horse: Diane Beuchert
Mehndi Artist : Shazia
Mehndi cake: Classic Bakery
Mehndi Decorator: Lemon Décor
Mehndi Caterer: Grace of India   

To read more great information for planning your wedding, head over to my website at www.weddingsbylee.com or give me a call at 202-744-0341.

Cheers,

Lee

202-744-0341

Lee@Weddingsbylee.com