For those who have attended a South Asian wedding in the United States, you know you are in for a sensorial treat. From the moment you step into a wedding venue transformed by colorful fabrics and florals, exotic smells, and beat-filled sounds, your expectations for all of life’s other celebrations take on new meaning.

For those who have planned a South Asian wedding in the US, the experience is an emotional one sure to try your patience and test your relationships. With multiple events and a large guest list, the possibilities to truly flaunt your personality and feed your creative side are endless. The MyShadi Bridal Expos fuel that desire giving couples and their families a firsthand look at the latest trends in event and wedding planning.

Each year, Desh Videsh Media Group hosts bridal expos in Georgia and Florida, giving couples an opportunity to meet with a variety of vendors in one afternoon and reduce some of the stress associated with wedding or event planning. Instead of spending several weekends meeting with a long list of vendors, couples and their families can narrow their choices to their favorites or even finalize their selection. For those in the throes of wedding planning, being able to switch focus to a select few preferred vendors is truly an achievement.

On their end, the vendors go above and beyond to showcase the products and services they offer, be it event planning, décor, photography/ videography, catered food and cakes, invitations, mehndi, and more. Caterers serve delectable food samples, giving attendees a taste of the type of cuisine they could book for their wedding. Photographers wow brides and their families, hoping to enamor them with poignant photographs that capture truly remarkable moments. Mehndi (henna) and makeup artists gave brides a firsthand look at possible styles for their special day during live demonstrations.

Walk into a MyShadi Bridal Expo and the magic of a South Asian celebration immediately feeds the senses. With elaborate, colorful mandaps and sample reception tables set up around the exhibit hall, attendees can get their creative juices flowing and attack their to-do list with unbridled enthusiasm. With so many ideas set forth by vendors and displays around the exhibit hall, brides and attendees leave the Expo with plenty of ideas for their events.

One of the highlights of each MyShadi Bridal Expo is the designer fashion shows. Models strut down the runway showing off gorgeous, modern saris and intricately designed lenghas from some of the region’s exclusive and well-known clothing and jewelry boutiques. Some clothing and jewelry vendors join the Expo from as far as London and India, so attendees really do get a look at the latest styles and fashions.

Desh-Videsh thanks Platinum Sponsors Tampa Marriott Waterside Marina & Spa, Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel, Bonaventure Resort & Spa, Hilton Orlando, My Shadi, and The Arpan Group as well as all participating vendors for yet another successful year of MyShadi Bridal Expos!

For more information about the MyShadi Bridal Expo, call Desh-Videsh at (954) 784-8100 ext. 200 or send an email to info@deshvidesh.com

About the Author: Rina Shah is the CEO and founder of The Arpan Group, a boutique ad agency and public relations firm that specializes in developing campaigns to capture untouched ethnic markets. From press releases and media kits to marketing materials and by-line articles, The Arpan Group customizes solutions based specifically on the client’s needs. For more information about The Arpan Group, visit www.thearpangroup.com or call (703) 651-6670.

2018 Wedding

Color Trends

Whether your style is bold and vibrant or subdued and classic, weddings are a time to let personality shine. From invitations and flowers to bridesmaids outfits and table settings, there are ample opportunities to use color to shape your wedding theme.

Need some color inspiration? These color trends are sure to shine all year long.

Mehndi

1. Mehndi Hai Rachne Valli (Zubeida)

2. Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna (Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge)

3. Mehndi Ni Mehndi by Harshdeep Kaur

4. Mehendi Mehendi (Chori Chori Chupke Chupke)

5. Likh Ke Mehndi Se Sajna Ka Naam by Anuradha Paudwal

Sangeet

6. Bole Chudiyaan (Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham)

7. Mere Hathon Mai Nau Nau Choodiyan Hain (Chandni)

8. Gud Naal Ishq Mitha by Bally Sagoo

9. Ainvayi Ainvayi (Band Baaja Baaraat)

10. Mai Sasural Nahi Jaungi Doli Rakh Do (Chandni)

11. Yeh Galiya Yeh Chaubara (Prem Rog)

12. Sapne Mai Milti Hain (Satya)

13. Navrai Majhi (English Vinglish)

14. Mahi Ve (Kal Ho Na Ho) 15. Gal Meethi Meethi Bol (Aisha)

16. Sasuraal Genda Phool (Delhi 6)

17. London Thumakda (Queen)

18. Babydoll (Ragini MMS 2)

First Dance

19. Pehla Nasha (Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar)

20. Tum Se Hi (Jab We Met)

21. Pehli Nazar (Race)

22. O Re Piya (Aaja Nachle)

23. Zehnaseeb (Hasee Toh Phasee)

24. Main Rang Sharbaton Ka (Phata Poster Nikla Hero)

25. Raabta (Agent Vinod)

26. Khuda Jaane (Bachna Ae Haseeno)

Groom’s Entry

27. Le Jayenge Le Jayenge Dilwale Dulhaniya (Chor Machaye Shor)

28. Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (Mujhse Shaadi Karogi)

29. Saajan Ji Ghar Aaye (Kuch Kuch Hota Hai) 30. Tenu leke (Salaame-Ishq)

31. Chote Chote Bhaiyon Ke (Hum Saath Saath Hain)

Bride’s Entry

32. Din Shagna Da Aaya Ni Aao Sakhiyon (Dillagi)

33. Paalki Mein Hoge Saawar Chali Re (Hero)

34. Dulhe Ka Sehra Suhana Lagta Hai (Dhadkan)

35. Sab Ki Baaratein Aayi (Janam Samjha Karo) 36. Teri Ore (Singh Is Kingg)

37. Tune Maari Entriyaan (Gunday)

Vidaai

38. Babul Ki Duaayein Leti Ja (Neel Kamal)

39. Sada Chidiyan Da Chamba Ve (Kabhi Kabhie)

40. Babul Jo Tumne Sikhaya (Hum Aapke Hain Koun)

Wedding Songs

41. Maiya Yashoda Ye Tera Kanhaiya (Hum Saath Saath Hain)

42. Baari Barsi (Band Baaja Baaraat)

43. Kala Sha Kala by Anamika

44. Mai Ne Mai (Hum Aapke Hain Koun)

45. Kinna Sohna Tenu Rab Ne Banaya by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan

46. Aaye Ho Meri Zindagi Mai Tum Bahar Banker (Raja Hindustani)

47. Balle Balle (Bride and Prejudice)

48. Taare Hain Baraati (Virasat)

49. Wah Wah Ram Ji (Hum Aap e Hain Koun)

50. Bumro Bumro (Mission Kashmir)

Mehndi Bollywood Songs

Sangeet Bollywood Songs

First Dance bollywood Songs

Indian Groom Entry Songs

Indian Bride Entry Songs

Indian Wedding Vidaai Songs

Special Indian Wedding Songs

Here are some festive Bollywood songs perfect for a groom who is ready to make a fabulous entry.

Jodhaa Akbar: “Azeemo Shaan Shehenshah”

For the royal couple, an entrance worthy of a raja is none other than Azeemo Shaan Shehenshah from the regal film Jodhaa Akbar.

Tiger Zinda Hai: “Swag Se Swagat”

For the fun-loving, party groom, this party anthem from the 2018 hit film will definitely get guests excited when he makes his entry.

Baaghi 2: “Mundiya”

The remixed version of this popular Punjabi song is a great song choice if you want guests to feel the energy and excitement.

Dhadkhan: “Dulhe Ka Sehra”

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s voice was made for a groom’s entry. If it suits Akshay Kumar, then it is a definite fit for any groom!

Badri Ki Dulhania: Title Track

Fun, peppy, playful, and fast beats – sounds like the perfect entrance song for a groom who likes to charm a crowd.

Bachna Ae Haseeno: Title Track

Not much is better than this Ranbir Kapoor song. Channel your inner handsome hunk by walking in to your ceremony to the beat of this song.

Saathiya: “Mangalyam”

For the groom who wants a mix of tradition with a good beat, this is the song for you. Don’t want to use it for your entry? It’s a great choice for the varmala/garland exchange portion of the ceremony too!

Salaam-e-Ishq: “Tenu Leke Main Javanga”

This Bollywood hit is perfect for a groom who wants to dance down the aisle.

Most experts agree that style is the most important consideration when narrowing your list of top photographers. With Facebook and Instagram feeds full of images from friends’ and families’ engagement photo shoots and weddings, chances are you are already drawn to a certain look and feel. Peter Nguyen of Peter Nguyen Photography believes, “style is the most important factor couples should consider … I highly recommend couples take time to look through the photographer’s recent works. Create a private Pinterest board for wedding photo samples and inspirations, and share it with your photographer.”

From the style of photography to the nitty-gritty details of budgets, proofs, and prints, choosing a photographer can seem like a daunting task. No one wants to look through their wedding album years from now and be disappointed with the images. Though you may “ooh” and “aah” over artistic images and creative, out-of-this-world poses, there are many factors to consider (both practical and your own wants and needs) as well as questions to ask potential photographers.

Factors to Consider

Moments from your wedding events will be cherished not only today and tomorrow, but also for many years to come so the task of choosing a photographer may feel like a weighty decision. Personality, budget, experience, and photography styles rank among the most important factors to consider when choosing a wedding photographer. Niulka and Luis LaBoy of NSPG Media believe that “ultimately, it all depends on the couple’s wants, needs and desires coupled with a budget. Also consider their quality of work, personality, and experience. No matter how much you love someone’s work make sure your personalities click and that they have experience in the type of wedding you’ll be having.”

Personality

Most photographers agree, it comes down to personality, personality, personality! Stephana Ferrell of Sona Photography stresses, “You have a vision for your day, and you’ll need someone behind the lens that can capture it for you the way you want it. Just as there are painters with different techniques to paint the same media/subject, your photographer and cinematographer will have a unique way of “seeing” your event. Likewise, personalities need to click as this will be a day with some hiccups and time management concerns- make sure all of your vendors will support you through your day and not add to the stress.

For some couples, you may need to experience the photographer in action, so consider using your Engagement Photo Session as a trial run. Soham Patel of Soham Photography adds that doing an Engagement Photo Shoot help the photographer to “understand the bride and groom and their personality.” Your photographer is one vendor who is truly going to be with you every step of the way, so the connection you feel with him or her is not one to be taken lightly.

Budget
Budget is always an important consideration for any vendor that you choose. Most photographers agree though, that budget alone should not influence your choice until you have narrowed down your list. Factor in the photographer’s ability to capture stunning images in the style you want. Also, be sure to compare apples to apples; in other words, prices do not always reflect the same time commitment or printing/album choices.

Experience

Photographers with many years of experience have not only fine-tuned their skills, they have also developed relationships with other vendors and are familiar with most venues. Seema Samji of Zamana Lifestyles adds, “Photographers who have been in the game for a while will be more comfortable with the shoot, rather than be overwhelmed with the size and complexity of the Indian weddings!” Being fully prepared also comes with experience as noted by Altaf Khan of Shennai Art Studio. “We don’t want to miss any key moments, so we bring multiple cameras, and use as many as five cameras.”

Wedding Photography Styles
Your chosen photographer should reflect the style you envision for your wedding memories. Traditional or classic photographers will work from a shot list you provide and are more comfortable with formal, posed shots. Photographers who embrace a candid or photojournalistic style are more likely to step back and capture moments as they happen. Some photographers place more emphasis on an artistic or creative style. These images tend to feature unique poses, incorporate different angles and scenery, and focus on details like clothing and décor. Most modern wedding photographers use a blend of styles, so looking through portfolios is an important way of gauging where a photographer’s style falls. Ashok Pancholi of Digital Dream Studio emphasizes the importance of looking at portfolios and asks clients “to really look through past work in detail.” Portfolios will reflect how a photographer maintains their creative and professional integrity while also capturing the shots clients want.

Prepare for Your First Meeting
Once the list of photographers has been narrowed, focus on gathering the right information at each of your meetings. Kimberly Romano of Kimberly Photography reminds couples to approach their first meeting with an “open mind. Come prepared with what you want to know from your photographer. Let us walk you through the process and ask questions, even if you’re unsure about the question.”
In addition to technical questions about the contract, fees, and equipment, here are a few more to keep in mind during the first meeting:

• What style do you specialize in? (Styles discussed in the section above.)
• How would you describe your working style? (Do you want your photographer to orchestrate moments or capture candid shots?)
• Who will be photographing my wedding? (Be sure to meet with not only the owner, but also anyone who will be a part of your team.)
• Have you shot at my venue(s) before? (Understanding the lighting and knowing great spots for photos is a huge advantage.)
• Have you ever worked alongside any of my vendors? (Most wedding vendors develop strong relationships, which makes for seamless flow throughout all your events.)
• Are you shooting in digital or film format or both? (Most photographers shoot digital now, but always good to ask!)
• Can I give you a list of specific shots we would like? (Some photographers prefer to stay true to creativity, while others understand you need some posed photos.)
• How many pictures do you take? (Most photographers take 500 pictures.)
• Will the photos be retouched and color balanced? (Will this be done before you see the proofs?)
• How long after the wedding do we get to see the photos?

In reflecting on the role of a photographer, Amish Thakkar of Fine Art Productions states, “We don’t simply click and process pictures, we preserve the exact emotion you had during your wedding, and pack it into one beautiful remembrance of a wedding portrait.” So as you narrow your choices, consider how your first meetings went. Did you feel at ease with the photographer? Was there a connection, and did he/she understand your expectations? Will your emotions be captured to live on in beautiful portraits? Listening to your own intuition is just as important as considering budget and style.

Favorite Wedding Moments
The experts share their favorite wedding moments.

Altaf (Shennai Art Studio): To be honest, every wedding moment is my favorite moment!

Ashok (Digital Dream Studio): Covering the entire Wedding! Especially capturing all the sentimental moments.

Kimberly (Kimberly Photography): After the ceremony…. for most, the ceremony is one of the most nerve-wracking, stressful parts of the wedding. Making sure everything starts on time, being in front of all your family and friends. Once it’s over, you see the stress go away and couples are in complete love and bliss.

Niulka and Luis (NSPG Media): My favorite moment of a wedding is the reception. It’s like the finale to a fireworks show saving all of the sparkle and excitement until the end!

Peter (Peter Nguyen Photography): The bride’s entrance is by far my most favorite wedding moment. I love capturing the groom’s look when he sees his bride for the first time in her wedding dress.

Seema (Zamana Lifestyles): I love that the weddings in the Indian culture involve all the families, friends, relatives, acquaintances, work colleagues… everyone comes to celebrate with the couple. There is so much love, joy and happiness…so many priceless moments to capture!

Soham (Soham Photography): When the clients and family/friends are having fun during all moments of the wedding … especially because pictures always come out great when people are happy!

Stephana (Sona Photography): My favorite moment is when the Bride and Groom see each other for the first time! In most cases, we are there with them prior to this moment, and the preparation and anticipation for that first gaze just makes for such amazing energy and emotion […] It is such a special moment, and I feel so honored when a couple entrusts us to capture it.

Photographers

Special thanks to the photographers who contributed their thoughts and advice to this article.

Choosing the Right Venue For Your Vision

By Rina Shah, The Arpan Group

Once a couple is engaged, along with the many congratulations and best wishes from family and friends, comes the inevitable onslaught of questions. When is the big day? Have you picked a place yet? Where you choose to host your wedding will likely be one of the most difficult decisions during the planning process. The venue should not only be able to comfortably host guests, but also be a reflection of the couple’s personality. Venues are not one size fit all – a space that is the perfect choice for one couple may be limiting for another.

Though there are many available choices for a wedding venue, most couples have a general idea of how they want the day to unfold as well as the look and feel of the event. Kim Johnston, Director of Catering at the Marriott Palm Beach Gardens in Florida, believes that seeing the venue in person is most helpful. Choosing a venue can be a “’we’ll know it when we see it’ moment. Everyone has a vision of their perfect venue. Choose a venue where you are the focus of their attention. If you don’t want to be one of many events, but one-of-a-kind, pick a venue that accommodates that special request.”

Narrowing the Choices

Couples should begin by creating a list of their top choices. Start with your budget. Be reasonable in what you can afford while still comfortably hosting your guests. While some venues provide linen and décor services or catering, others may not, so factor these items into your budget. Consider the main aspects of a venue needed to make it your ideal space – high ceilings, lots of light, outdoor options, in-house or outside catering, accommodations, hometown or a destination wedding, etc. Andrea Constatinou, Senior Sales Catering Manager at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek & Waldorf Astoria Orlando adds, “Be selective in the number of venues that you visit. Don’t go crazy visiting more than 3-4 venues – as often this just causes confusion.”

When considering from the many options available, couples should focus on:

Guest list: Along with venue, this item ranks high on the list of priorities. While the number does not need to be exact, a strong estimate will help establish the size of venue needed as well as other basics like invitations, catering, and accommodations.

Logistics: Will guests be from the local area or from out-of-town? Will all events be held in once place or at multiple sites? Will the events be indoors or outdoors? What time of day will the event take place? Take all of these into account as you narrow the possibilities.

Catering: Take a look at options for food and drink. Do you have dietary or cultural restrictions? Will you need an outside caterer?

Style: Part of the fun of planning a wedding is the perfect opportunity to show off your personality. While the idea of hosting a wedding in the lobby of an art museum might sound appealing, be sure toconsider all the logistics. Will the space hold not only the guests, but also equipment for caterers? If your fantasy venue is not possible, find ways to infuse your style. As you visit venues, ask the catering or event manager to help you visualize different layouts and unique options.

For South Asian weddings, couples should carefully consider whether the venue is aware of and can accommodate cultural needs. Teresa Bernstein, Director of Catering at the Hilton Orlando in Florida shares, “We have conversations with the family to and talk through the various cultural needs and expectations to ensure we are all on the same page. The Hilton Orlando is very familiar with cultural weddings, and we take pride is exceeding our guests expectations by immersing ourselves in the culture. The entire Hotel is engaged throughout the process, which permeates throughout the wedding.”

Preparing for First Visit

Once the list of venues has been narrowed down, begin making appointments to see the space in person. Be sure to allow adequate time to walk through the property and ask all of your questions. Michelle Shulman, Marketing Director at the Bonaventure Resort & Spa in Weston, Florida, also advises couples to “have an outline of what you think you would like your dream wedding to encompass. Use Pinterest and magazines with pictures of what you would like. The more details the better.” Catering and event managers have an eye both for detail and for how a space can be transformed, so share your ideas and thoughts for your wedding vision.

Be sure to have an approximate number of guests, number of events, and list of date options with you. The more details you are able to provide, the more comprehensive the proposal, which will give you a good sense of pricing and services. Rick Galipault, Director of Catering at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida, reminds couples to “Be consistent in what you ask for so any proposals you receive are true ‘apples to apples’ comparisons.” By asking the same questions at each venue, couples will be able to adequately compare the price, size, room options, and catering to get a better of sense of which space is truly the right fit.

Favorite Wedding Moments

The experts share their favorite wedding moments.

Bernstein: I always admire the fact that I get to meet so many family members since the marriage symbolizes not only the union of the Bride and Groom, but also the two families. I love getting to know both sides of the family and seeing the love that goes into planning the Bride and Groom’s special day.

Constantinou: The first look…I love that moment when a couple sees each other for the first time privately…I still tear up.

Galipault: I really enjoy the Baraats; the enthusiasm and joy put into the Baraat is always amazing to see!

Johnston: When I finally get to see the bride and groom in their traditional wedding attire. So beautiful, so colorful!

Shulman: The Baraat, hands down. The joy, the music, the color and the elephant!

Featured Venues

Special thanks to the properties, all of which are well-versed in hosting successful Indian weddings, for participating in this article.

Bonaventure Resort & Spa
www.BonaventureResortandSpa.com

Innisbrook Resort & Golf Club
www.innisbrookresort.com

Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando
www.hiltonorlandobonnetcreek.com
www.waldorfastoriaorlando.com

Hilton Orlando
www.thehiltonorlando.com

Marriott Palm Beach Gardens
www.Marriott.com/PBIPG

About the Author
Rina Shah is the CEO and founder of The Arpan Group, a boutique ad agency and public relations firm that specializes in capturing untouched ethnic markets. From press releases and media kits to marketing materials and by-line articles, The Arpan Group customizes solutions based on the client’s needs. For more information, visit www.thearpangroup.com or call (703) 651-6670.