This wedding really was an adventure. We had multiple locations all around Estes Park and it was an all-day affair. They found the Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park and it was exactly what they needed. Not only for the awesome mountain views, but the Mandap needs to have 4 pillars and be an open structure. The four posts signify the 4 parents of the bride and groom. It's under their love, support, and blessings that the marriage takes place.
While the guys were getting read they were all having a hard time getting the long shirt on. It was a pretty funny moment for everyone.
Neel had this awesome suit all guilded up with some awesome slipper/shoes and hat.
Seeing Nam prepare was really incredible. I am used to seeing brides get all gussied up and gorgeous on their wedding day. It's always exciting but I was in awe with Nam. Everything was so unique (to me at least) and intricate. So much color and detail. Watching Nam's mom fold her sari was really special. The henna on Nam's hands and feet were incredible. It is a tradition to hide grooms name somewhere in it and he has to find it. Another funny tradition is people steal Neel's shoes and he has to pay Nam to get them back.
We then had a first look and did some family and bridal party photos. They were so much fun I knew I was in for a pretty great day. Best day at work ever!
The ceremony was over 2 hours long. I have shot many Catholic masses and they are kinda dull compared to Nam and Neel's. It was action packed.
Neel comes first to the Mandap but he doesn't simply walk, its a street dance party with all of his groomsmen. A true celebration. He is then greeted by his parents and is treated with kumkuma (sacred red powder signifying good luck) and holds a coconut (signifying fertility).
Neel sits with both sets of parents and the priest continues do say/sing prayers and songs. Nam's bridesmaids line up and begin walking in with Nam walking with her parents. She is met at the entrance by the parents who sprinkle rice and tie string to her as well. Neel stands behind a purple curtain so they cannot see each other yet. Namrata and Neel stand facing each other separated by a curtain (antarpaat) symbolizing their separate identities. Once revealed to each other they sit down with their parents and go through a variety of interesting traditions. They crack open a coconut and fill it with all sorts up stuff and throw spices and rice on Nam as she and Neel hold it. They place leaves on eachothers heads and then later they are laid out on the ground and Neel takes Nam's feet and do the Saptapadhi (7 steps) as more readings are read.
They then walk around several times together, exchange rings and a first kiss.
I know there is much more in there but these are the highlights that stuck with me. It was pretty incredible and so delighted they brought this unknowing white guy into their families for a day. So amazing and special.
After the ceremony everyone ventured off to lunch and picked back up at the Wild Basin Lodge for the reception and that will take you to part 2 of their adventure. Click here to continue their journey.
A HUGE shout out to Susan Morath with Save the Date Events for planning this extravaganza.
I am available for all of Colorado and destination weddings and engagements. I love to wander.
Colorado Wedding Photographer | Black Canyon Inn Wedding
Summer | Estes Park, Colorado | Wedding
