Join us today as we celebrate the enchanting Irish-Indian fusion wedding of Julie and Raj, held on July 5th, 2019, at Kew Gardens in London. This timeless and classic affair was marked by a serene pale pink color scheme, beautifully blending the couple’s cultural heritages. With an understated yet elegant approach, they allowed the stunning light-filled spaces to take center stage. The Nash conservatory provided the idyllic backdrop for their vows, before the Orangery transformed into a lively celebration venue. To achieve this refined atmosphere, Julie and Raj opted for delicate floral arrangements, bespoke stationery, and impeccable attire. Adding to the allure were the show-stopping naked wedding cake and the infectious energy of live music performances. These exquisite moments were captured with precision by Jacob and Pauline, whose exceptional photography skills we are deeply grateful for.
The Proposal
It was Raj who orchestrated a surprise weekend getaway to Nottingham, a city that held special memories for us as it’s where we first met during our Master’s program. Our accommodations were at Langar Hall, a charming guest house that exceeded our expectations. On one evening, after dinner, the waiter inquired if we’d prefer to enjoy our drinks outdoors. I stepped outside to discover a beautifully set-up pagoda adorned with candles and champagne, where Raj had arranged for a special surprise – he proposed!
The Vision
Our goal was to craft a wedding that harmoniously blended our personal style with the rich cultural heritage of both Ireland and India. Given their reputation for lavish celebrations, we were thrilled to have an excuse to merge these two vibrant traditions into one unforgettable day. The outcome was a truly distinctive and memorable experience that left a lasting impression on our loved ones.
The Planning Process
As our winter engagement led us to hastily book a venue for the following summer, we realized we needed to act fast to secure a spot. In fact, just two weeks after the proposal, we had the venue locked in, which gave us a sense of relief and allowed us to take a breath. This speedy decision-making process gave us the freedom to ease into the planning phase, feeling less rushed and more at ease with our choice.
The Venue
When choosing a venue for our special day, my partner and I faced a unique challenge due to our international backgrounds. We initially considered hosting the ceremony in Ireland, but the logistical hurdles of planning a wedding from afar ultimately led us to explore alternative options closer to home.
As we both have a deep affection for Kew Gardens, it was only natural that we would consider the iconic botanical gardens as a potential venue. My aunt resides nearby, and I have fond memories of visiting the gardens as a child during family trips from Ireland. While getting married at Kew wasn’t initially on our radar, the more we thought about it, the more appealing it became.
Kew Gardens presented several advantages that sealed the deal for us. Its proximity to the airport made it easily accessible for my family and friends traveling from abroad, with some guests even arriving on the day of the wedding itself. For Raj’s side, being based in West London meant that his loved ones were also just a stone’s throw away.
We opted for an intimate ceremony within the Nash Conservatory and a lively reception in the Orangery, both of which offered stunning natural light and picturesque backdrops.
After meeting with Kew’s events team, we decided to book the venue on the spot. In hindsight, it’s clear that we were already too invested in the idea of getting married at Kew to consider any other options!
Your Outfits & Accessories
When it came time to choose my dress, I visited Golden Sash Bridal in Fulham. With so many stunning styles to consider, I found myself torn between various looks that all had something unique to offer. To make things more manageable, I knew I needed to pick a dress fairly early on since they take some time to craft. After trying on around 10 dresses, I eventually settled on one that caught my eye. However, I wanted to put my own personal touch on it, so I collaborated with one of the designers to revamp elements like the neckline and train length. Poonam, Raj’s sister, generously lent me her veil as my ‘something borrowed,’ while Raj surprised me with a beautiful pair of earrings that I opened on our special day. His bespoke three-piece suit from French Eye was truly impressive, featuring fabric he had carefully selected himself. In return, I gave him a thoughtful gift – a Tissot pocket watch to wear during the ceremony.
Beauty
The bride’s hairstyle and makeup were expertly crafted by Ausra, a talented artist from Kristina Gasperas. With her skills, she brought out the best in the bride’s features, creating a stunning look that perfectly complemented her overall aesthetic.
The Readings & Music
As the ceremony came to a close, we opted for a unique and emotive touch with a harpist on hand to set the tone for our celebration. We chose ‘I Giorno’ by Einaudi as our entrance song, a beautiful and intimate piece that perfectly captured the essence of our love story. To add an extra layer of cultural significance, Raj’s cousin took to the dhol drums as we entered the reception and cut our wedding cake, injecting a lively energy into the atmosphere.The reception itself was a true celebration of our heritage and cultures. Our DJ, Malkit, delivered a fantastic set that seamlessly blended traditional Irish folk with modern Bollywood beats, ensuring everyone on the dance floor was in high spirits. To further get the party started, we had some talented dancers on hand to teach the Irish contingent (and anyone else willing to learn!) some dazzling moves.In our quest for meaningful yet understated nods to our special day, we discovered a couple of poignant excerpts – one from Hilary T. Smith’s Wild Awake and another from Louis De Bernieres’ Captain Corelli’s Mandolin – which added an extra layer of depth and emotion to the proceedings. My brother also took a moment to read a traditional Irish blessing that has always held a special place in my heart, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Bridesmaids
As I scoured the internet for the perfect bridesmaid dresses, I couldn’t help but feel frustrated with the limited options available. That was until Raj’s Mum took me on a shopping trip, where we stumbled upon the ideal gowns. The dresses were a stunning shade and, unlike traditional sarees, didn’t require any expertise to wear comfortably. However, the only slight hurdle was that my bridesmaids were based in Ireland, which meant I had to arrange alterations without them trying them on beforehand. Thankfully, the final result exceeded my expectations, with each of the girls looking radiant in their new attire.
Your Photographer
When it comes to capturing the essence of your special day, selecting the right photographer and videographer is crucial. For us, this decision was a top priority. After discovering Jacob and Pauline on Instagram, I was particularly drawn to Pauline’s distinctive photography style, which exuded elegance and refinement. We were thrilled to learn that she was available for our wedding, and her exceptional work did not disappoint – we couldn’t be more pleased with the stunning photos she produced.
Your Filmmaker
We discovered our talented videographer, Andrei, through Instagram, where his unique visual storytelling caught our attention. We were thrilled to collaborate with him, as he effortlessly put us at ease from the outset. His exceptional work further solidified our satisfaction with the final product.
The Details & Décor
As I poured over online pictures of the Orangery, I was thrilled to find inspiration for my own wedding styling. To create a cohesive look, I chose a blush pink and floral theme that extended to other details like wedding invitations and apps. The process of deliberating over small details like invites can be overwhelming, but it’s worth taking the time to get everything just right. For our table decorations, we opted for tall vases with pale pink roses and eucalyptus bouquets that matched the bride and bridesmaids’ bouquets. To add a personal touch without breaking the bank, I purchased small vases from Ikea and had our florist add single blooms to each one, eliminating the need for as many flowers. Inspired by printed canvas signs and seating plans on Pinterest, I created my own version by attaching a high-quality seating plan design to a regular artist’s canvas. This cost-effective solution allowed me to achieve the same effect without the hefty price tag. To make our wedding even more memorable, we set up a polaroid camera and props beside our wedding book, allowing guests to snap pictures to include with their messages. It was wonderful to read through these when we returned from our honeymoon.
The Cake
We indulged in a decadent dessert experience courtesy of Le Papillon Cakes, opting for a stunning ‘naked’ confection adorned with an abundance of fresh and vibrant berries.
The Honeymoon
After our whirlwind wedding celebration, my partner and I yearned for an unconventional honeymoon experience that would allow us to unwind and create lifelong memories. We opted for a ‘safari beach’ adventure, combining the thrill of exploring the African wilderness with the serenity of a tropical getaway. Our home base was the enchanting Sanctuary Makananye Safari lodge in South Africa, where we were treated to an unforgettable encounter on our first safari tour. Our expert guide spotted a majestic Cheetah and invited us to follow him through the bush for a unique up-close experience. The moment we sat down beside her for that unforgettable photo op was a mix of excitement and trepidation! Following the safari, we traveled to Mauritius, where we indulged in a leisurely week-long stay at the luxurious St. Regis resort, basking in the warmth and tranquility of the island.
Memorable Moments
The highlight of the celebration was undoubtedly the best man’s speech, which took an unexpected turn when Raj’s brother produced the notebook where his teenage brother used to pen his own rap lyrics. In a stunning display of nostalgia and showmanship, he then treated the guests to a live rap performance, effortlessly rhyming and delivering a memorable ode. As the night wore on, the festivities reached their crescendo with an impromptu Riverdance-inspired dance party, showcasing the infectious energy and camaraderie that defined this joyous Irish wedding celebration.
Advice For Other Couples
Using a wedding app to track RSVPs and share important details with guests is an excellent way to streamline your planning process, reducing stress and costs associated with printing excess information on invitations. The ability to collect dietary requirements and attendance effortlessly makes it a must-have tool for any couple. Additionally, considering both a photographer and videographer to capture your special day can be invaluable. While we initially planned only one, we’re thrilled we changed our minds. Having a visual record of the day allows you to relive the moments that flew by in an instant, providing years of entertainment and nostalgia. It’s truly priceless.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
Julie and Raj’s breathtaking wedding celebration was a true masterpiece, thanks in large part to the talented team of professionals who brought their vision to life. Behind the camera lens was photographer Jacob, capturing every precious moment with his keen eye. Meanwhile, Pauline worked her magic behind the scenes, ensuring Julie looked absolutely stunning in her dress from @goldensashbridal. The groom, Raj, was dashing in his suit, perfectly complemented by French Eye’s elegant styling. With Andrei Weddings at the helm, every detail of the wedding day was meticulously planned and executed. Preeti Catering brought their culinary expertise to the table, serving up a delectable spread that delighted guests’ taste buds. Le Papillon Cakes created a show-stopping cake that doubled as a work of art. The enchanting venue, Kew Gardens, provided a lush backdrop for the celebration. As Julie’s eyes shone with happiness, Ausra.ruk’s masterful makeup skills brought out her natural beauty. West London Flowers crafted a stunning floral arrangement that added to the wedding’s visual splendor. With @djmbparagon spinning tracks and Alexander Thomas Harp adding an air of sophistication on his harp, the dance floor was always abuzz with energy. Absolute Bollywood even got in on the act, bringing their infectious enthusiasm and mesmerizing moves. Delta Live ensured a seamless sound and lighting experience that kept the party going all night long. As Julie and Raj’s love story unfolded, it was truly utterly divine – and we’re honored to have shared their special day with you.