You may remember our awesome couple, Mani and Preethi from their Engagement Session at the Gaylord National Hotel or from their Engagement Ceremony at the Murugan Temple in Lanham, Maryland. We had a blast photographing every one of their events and we were eagerly counting down the days until we were able to photograph their wedding! Mani and Preethi’s fabulous wedding festivities began with the traditional Mendhi ceremony. As per tradition, this ceremony is usually hosted by the bride’s side of the family a few days prior to the wedding ceremony. Preethi’s uncle hosted this beautiful ceremony at his home in Potomac, Maryland.
Preethi’s mendhi party was a colorful affair filled with beautiful décor that was beautiful with splashes of vivid colors, lush pillows, gorgeous churris and elegant lights everywhere. There wasn’t an inch of white wall in sight as Sachi from Partyland Flowers & Event Decor did a wonderful job transforming the space! From their mandap and the lanterns to the details on the table, no detail was left unnoticed.
Preethi looked gorgeous! She was dressed in an ornate lengha with beautiful coordinating jewelry and an intoxicating smile that rubbed off on everyone who attended this wonderful affair. Family from all over the world flew in to attend Preethi and Mani’s wedding and Day 1 went amazing, with great food, loads of laughs and wodnerful dances.
Preethi’s mendhi (henna) was intricate and heavily detailed with traditional patterns. On average it takes upwards of six hours to apply bridal mendhi and it was no different for Preethi. It is said that once the mendhi is dry and set, the darker and deeper the henna stains the more the husband and the in-laws will love her bride (have to wait till the wedding to see). The ritual of mendhi traditionally signifies the strength and power of love in a marriage so it is regarded as a good omen for the would-be bride. It is also believed that the long the bride retains the mendhi, the more auspicious would be her future. Preethi’s mendhi was a very dark maroon and simply gorgeous just a few hours into it setting! Mani’s name was brilliantly hidden in the designs!
Preethi’s family and friends entertained the guest with well choreographed dances and sang traditional songs. The atmosphere was pure excitement and anticipation as they eagerly awaited the Janavasam, ceremony and reception in the days to come! There were multiple mendhi artists present and applied her beautiful designs on all those who were interested.
A night filled with great company, fun dances and amazing food-what better a way to kickoff Mani and Preethi’s wedding festivities!
by Sunny Mathur
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