Len and I were up bright and early (well actually before the brightness of the sun as we arrived to the wedding venue before 6:00 am) to attend our first Hindu wedding, a Brahmin ceremony with a Tamil twist. I loved that the entrance decor included bananas and the huge banana flowers.
Inside and outside was covered in gorgeous orange, yellow, and white marigolds.
The bride, Mitali is one of Len's colleague's and she brought the southern Indian flair to the event.
Ajay, the groom is from a Brahmin (priestly) family, hence his robes and the ashes across his arms and forehead.
This was a cute ceremony where they took turns catching each other with leis. After each turn they would get further apart. Their smiles and laughs each time they caught each other were so sweet.
A detailed shot of the henna, color, and bling!
The end of the Tamil opening. Feet have been washed multiple times by loved ones, and the evil eye has been averted with the offering of prayers and tossing colored rice balls.
These 2 musicians sounded like a full band. They were so fun!
We had a breakfast break and were able to get a picture with Mitali.
Look at those smiles! I love LOVE! What a beautiful couple.
After a quick wardrobe change, it was now time for the Brahmin portion. The priest on the right is providing some instruction. Soon after a flame was burning in the dark square bowl in front of them, into which they would place various oils, incenses and walk around over the course of an elaborate ritual.
They took a slew of pictures after of the two of them, both of their families, and their friends (including us!), but this one is my favorite. Great catch Mitali! There was a delicious lunch as a finale to the full morning's events. I'm so glad we got to attend this wonderful day!
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