Simran and Kevin’s Indian American wedding in Philadelphia was just incredible. From the Sikh ceremony on Friday to their elegant museum reception on Saturday, every piece of the celebration was perceptive and beautifully designed (thanks in part to Laurel and Elm!). The baraat is my favorite tradition at an Indian wedding and Simran and Kevin’s did not disappoint. It started with Kevin’s head getting wrapped into a turban perhaps 8 yards long. It was such an interesting process to watch, the men really took their time making sure everything was perfect. And then the party began! Kevin rode in on a decorated white horse with all of his friends and family dancing and cheering alongside him while a band accompanied the procession. As a nod to Kevin’s Scottish roots, they even added a bagpipe to the mix! It was a long, fun dance party to the finish line where Simran’s family was waiting to welcome them with open arms. Each family member then exchanged garlands to solidify the blending of two families.

All of this revelry worked up an appetite and thus led into a delicious breakfast buffet complete with Federal Donuts to give people energy for the Sikh ceremony which followed. For the ceremony, we all took off our shoes and covered our heads with a scarf to enter the temple. Simran entered in a stunning pink and gold lengha, custom made in India. It was literally dripping in details with embroidery and beads everywhere. Her hands and feet were covered in beautiful Mehndi designs. She looked absolutely gorgeous (though Simran’s a natural beauty, True Beauty Marks enhanced everything perfectly).

After the ceremony, lunch was served! My goodness there was some food at this wedding!I don’t think anyone went away hungry. Check back in a few days for Kevin and Simran’s western-style wedding that followed Friday’s celebration!