Some weddings are not just about two people coming together – they are about two worlds blending seamlessly. Sadhana & Chris’s wedding was exactly that – a heartwarming celebration of love and cultures, set against the regal backdrop of Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur, in the magical winter month of December.
What made this celebration even more special was Sadhana and Chris themselves. Both graduates of Harvard Business School, they brought not just love but also an incredible vision and involvement to their wedding. Their curiosity, attention to detail, and knowledge meant they were deeply engaged in every step of the planning process. From ideating experiences to thoughtfully curating the smallest of details, they ensured the wedding was a true reflection of who they are.
With over 14 months of planning, seamless teamwork, and countless hours of effort, everything eventually fell into place. What unfolded was not just a wedding, but a journey — one where two people, two families, and two cultures came together to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Over three days of festivities, laughter, music, and traditions, this wedding turned into an unforgettable journey for everyone involved.
Day One – Warm Welcomes
The celebrations began as guests checked in at the palace, greeted with warmth and excitement. A beautiful touch was the tuck shop and kurta corner, open throughout the wedding, where guests could pick up anything they liked – from comfortable Indian wear to fun keepsakes. It was a thoughtful gesture that instantly made everyone feel included.
After check-in, guests enjoyed a relaxed lunch spread, catching up and settling into the atmosphere. The evening unfolded into the welcome dinner, where a unique experience awaited: a traditional South Indian sit-down thali meal. This was no ordinary dinner – hotels rarely serve such an elaborate thali, but with careful planning between the couple, the hotel, and the planning team, it turned into a feast to remember. For many guests visiting India for the first time, it was their very first taste of authentic regional cuisine – and one they wouldn’t forget.
Day Two – Mehndi & Sangeet
Mehndi
The morning came alive with colors, music, and laughter. The game jockey kept the crowd entertained with fun challenges, engaging everyone regardless of age. Before the ceremony began, Project Kalaakar – the live band set the vibe, adding energy and rhythm to the festive atmosphere.
The food was a highlight, showcasing the richness of Indian flavors. For many international guests, it was their first introduction to the diversity of Indian cuisine – something both fascinating and eye-opening. Adding to the experience were cultural stalls: bangles, dupattas, bindis, and more. Watching guests try them on, and immerse themselves in this slice of Indian tradition was a joy in itself.
And while the festivities went on, another layer of planning was quietly unfolding. Guests who had missed online dance practices were given choreography sessions during the day, with time slots carefully scheduled and texted to them. Around 10 groups rehearsed with the choreographer just after the haldi, preparing for their sangeet performances later that night.
At the same time, tours around Jaipur were arranged. With tuk-tuks and guides ready, guests who wanted to explore the city slipped away for short experiences, returning in time to join the next celebration. Balancing tours, rehearsals, and ceremonies was no small feat – but with planning and coordination, it all came together seamlessly.
The Sangeet
By evening, the palace lit up for a night of music and dance. What made the sangeet unforgettable was the enthusiasm – groups with unique names, perfectly synced Bollywood moves, and performances that felt like they had been practicing for months.
The highlight, without doubt, was Chris and his groomsmen. Despite being foreigners, they had rehearsed tirelessly, and their performance to Bollywood hits was a showstopper. The crowd went wild when they tied lungis and danced to Lungi Dance, setting the stage on fire.
The night didn’t end with the planned acts – a Bhangra troupe took over, pulling everyone onto the dance floor. Guests danced till late, losing themselves in the energy of the moment.
Day Three – The Wedding & Reception
The wedding morning brought anticipation and joy. In a heart-stealing moment, Sadhana joined the procession herself – a gesture that broke tradition yet felt perfectly fitting for their story. The ceremony beautifully combined rituals from both cultures, celebrating not just love but also equality and togetherness.
As the vows concluded, the celebrations seamlessly transitioned into the reception at the same venue. This evening was a blend of emotions – heartfelt toasts, warm speeches, and moments that drew both laughter and tears. The setup remained from the wedding, but the atmosphere shifted into an elegant Indo-Western reception. Guests enjoyed a sit-down dinner, conversations flowing as memories were relived and new ones created.
A Story Still in the Making
As magical as it looked, this wedding wasn’t without its challenges. Behind every moment – from the thali dinner to the haldi games, from city tours to dance rehearsals – was a team carefully coordinating countless moving parts. Managing choreography alongside guest experiences, cultural details, and timelines was a new challenge, but one embraced with creativity and precision.
For us, Sadhana & Chris’s wedding was more than an event. It was a journey of blending two worlds, creating new traditions, and ensuring that every guest carried home a story of their own.
While the celebrations may have concluded, the picture isn’t over yet – the story of how it all came together – the challenges, the behind-the-scenes planning, and the relentless pursuit of perfection – is one we’ll be sharing next.
A union of love, culture, and timeless memories – this wedding will always hold a special place in our hearts.
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