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Shipra and Michael’s Fairmount Park Horticulture Center wedding in Philadelphia was a celebration that balanced tradition and personality in the best way possible. It was a bright spring day, and the outdoor setting by the reflecting pool couldn’t have been more fitting for their dual ceremonies, honoring both Hindu and Jewish traditions. Every moment of the day felt intentional, authentic, and deeply rooted in what mattered most to them. Shipra and Michael both work in the film industry, so when they chose us to capture their day, we were honored.
The day kicked off with the Hindu ceremony, which started with Michael’s lively Baraat. He danced his way to the ceremony site surrounded by family and friends, all smiling from ear to ear. Once there, a series of prayers and greetings followed, setting an intimate tone. When Shipra made her entrance, escorted by her sisters and cousins, it was such a heartwarming moment. One of our favorite moments has to be the garland exchange. The couple placed beautiful flower garlands on each other, symbolizing their love and respect for one another, and then later incorporated the garlands into their Jewish ceremony as well! We couldn’t get over how thoughtfully they wove these cultures together. The Hindu ceremony wrapped up with some powerful traditions like circling the sacred fire, the seven steps, and blessings for their future.
Next, under a chuppah adorned with vibrant greenery, Shipra and Michael exchanged rings and vows in their Jewish ceremony. The atmosphere was lighthearted and warm, with plenty of laughter and shared moments that made everyone feel included. There was a euphoric breaking of the glass to close out the ceremony, and guess what they were wearing – yup, the garlands from the previous Hindu ceremony.
While Shipra and Michael shared some time to themselves, which is customary in the Jewish religion, the guests transitioned into a casual cocktail hour in the greenhouse. The Horticulture Center’s reception space is open, airy, and flooded with natural light. Guests sipped drinks, snacked on hors d’oeuvres, and mingled amongst the lush greenery. It was a moment for everyone to relax, catch up, and soak in the beauty of the setting before the evening’s festivities began.
The reception was a colorful, vibrant celebration in the same greenhouse. Bright pink, red, and orange florals popped against the soft pastel yellow and cream tablecloths. The linens alternated with floral patterns, creating a dreamy yet sophisticated look. In keeping with their day’s theme, the couple brought elements from both cultures into the reception—like the Hora, which had everyone out of their seats and cheering. Shipra wowed everyone with a surprise outfit change: a short, vintage-inspired dress with intricate scalloped beading. The night ended on the best note possible—with nonstop dancing and everyone celebrating the love these two incredible people share. It was a day no one will ever forget!
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Venue: Fairmount Park Horticulture Center
Caterer: Moghul Catering
Event Design + Coordination: Benor & Beik
Photography: Tessa Schilke
Florist: We Are Wildflowers
Hair + Makeup: Aleksandra Ambrozy
Invitations: Autumn Fox Designs
Lighting + Draping – Wild Stems
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