Welcome back, readers! Let’s pick up where we left off, shall we?
After a night of fun and dance, Erica, Ricky, and their bridal party were up early to start prepping for the wedding. It couldn’t have been a nicer day at the Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point. Blue skies, ocean breeze… It was only 9:30 in the morning when guests were starting to get shuttled in for the Baraat. The Baraat is the groom’s wedding procession in certain Indian communities. As lively as the Sangeet was the previous night, the Baraat was a dance party on the move! Ricky sat atop a royally dressed steed–his family and friends parading by his side–on his way to the ceremony.
Immediately following the Baraat was the Milni, a tradition during which the bride and groom’s families exchange garlands. This was the first symbolic act in unifying their lives. Soon enough, the ceremony was ready to begin. Even during the processional, you better believe there was dancing! The mandap, or ceremony structure, was a beautiful sight to see. (This is equivalent to the chuppah in traditional Jewish weddings.) As the bridesmaids processed, they carried diya, or oil lamps. At the mandap, they met the pandit, or the priest.
After lunch, guests were shuttled back to Laguna Cliffs Marriott to rest for a few hours. Meanwhile, the newlyweds enjoyed a photo shoot around the resort. Before the festivities began again, Erica and Ricky changed into different formal wear. They were whisked away to the beach for another round of romantic photos. Afterwards, they returned, along with their guests, to enjoy cocktail hour.
Inside, the Pacific Ballroom was transformed into a beautiful reception space. The night began with several speeches, including a joint speech by Ricky’s sister and Erica’s best friend–the reasons the lovebirds met! It was another full night of dancing for the two. The food was also plentiful; everyone was treated to different desserts, including jalebi, which is deep-fried dough in sugar syrup. You think the night would end early, but the midnight snack was In-N-Out-style sliders, followed by the after-party in the upstairs bar area! Whew!
We’ve got a fun wedding video, too, so come back soon! Thanks for reading!
Photos | Callaway Gable
Venue | Monarch Beach Resort
DJ + Lighting | DJ Karan Entertainment
Florals + Rentals | Ethnic Essence
Horse + Buggy | Enchanted Carriages
Catering | Natraj
Photo + Video | Lisa Marie Photography
Specialty Food | Namaste Bites
Cake | Susie Cakes
Hair + Makeup | Ziba Beauty, Miraval Spa DryBar, Bridal by Nisha
Shuttles | Lux Bus America
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