A Multicultural Indian-Jewish Wedding in the California Redwoods

When Karly and Hriday met on what was essentially a multi-couple blind date set up by a mutual friend (who would later officiate their wedding!), there was an instant spark. That first meeting led to a relationship built on deep love, shared values, and a vision for a life together. So, when it came time to plan their multicultural wedding, they knew they wanted it to be more than just a celebration of their love. They wanted it to be a reflection of their families, cultures, and connection to nature.

A Wedding That Blended Cultures and Traditions

Their vision? Multicultural Indian-Jewish meets woodsy summer camp. The result was a joyful, deeply intentional celebration under the towering redwoods of Northern California. It was colorful, soulful, and full of meaningful rituals that paid homage to both Karly and Hriday’s heritage.

Fusion weddings naturally lend themselves to creativity, and Karly and Hriday embraced that fully. They really leaned into their backgrounds while making space for modern, personal touches that felt true to them.

Sustainable Fashion That Told a Story

Karly, passionate about sustainability, wore three secondhand outfits throughout the weekend: two Indian lehengas and a classic white wedding gown. All were sourced from Facebook Marketplace and Stillwhite, perfectly aligning with her goal of creating a low-waste wedding.

Hriday’s look was equally intentional, wearing traditional sherwanis from India and a boutique in the Bay Area. Their style choices weren’t just fashion statements—they were thoughtful reflections of their values and roots.

A Festive Baraat to Kick Off the Weekend

The multicultural wedding weekend started with a lively Friday night baraat. Guests arrived to find a wall of 120 unique, handmade mugs labeled “To Have and To Hold”—a sweet and functional wedding favor crafted by Karly herself.

The evening included a mix of floor seating with low tables and cozy pillows (all thrifted, of course). There was also a lounge corner where guests could get mehendi (henna) while snapping photos in front of a chic backdrop. It was playful, warm, and the perfect way to kick off the weekend’s festivities.

Saying “I Do” Beneath the Redwoods

The ceremony on Saturday took place deep in a redwood forest, creating a breathtaking and peaceful setting. Along the trail to the ceremony site, guests passed a “family tree” hung with framed photos of the couple’s parents and grandparents on their wedding days. That was one of many small touches that made the day feel personal.

Karly and Hriday were married beneath a custom chuppah/mandaap, lovingly built by Karly’s brother using logs from his wildfire prevention work in Marin County. It was adorned with vibrant florals and served as the perfect symbol of unity. Their ceremony blended Jewish and Hindu traditions. The highlight was when they exchanged heartfelt vows they’d written themselves—an emotional moment under the canopy of trees.

A Reception Filled with Meaning and Music

That evening, the celebration continued in the venue’s rustic mess hall, which had been transformed. It was lined with with long banquet tables, a roaring fireplace, and pressed leaves collected by Karly and her parents from Golden Gate Park to use as table numbers. It was cozy, charming, and full of personality.

The party started with a saxophone-led entrance thanks to Golden Bell Music, which flowed into the horah and an epic dance floor that stayed packed all night. The joy was palpable! It was clear this wasn’t just a wedding—it was a full-on celebration of life, love, and community.

Advice for Other Couples

As the night came to a close, Karly and Hriday reflected on their day with so much gratitude—and a bit of advice for other couples planning their own weddings:

“As long as 80% of things go right, don’t worry about the 20% that doesn’t. Focus on the love, the joy, and the people you’re sharing it with.”

Weddings like this one are a reminder that the most beautiful celebrations aren’t about perfection—they’re about being fully present, honoring your roots, and throwing a party that feels like you.

If you’re dreaming up a multicultural wedding that blends cultures, traditions, and intentional details, I’d love to be there to capture it all. Let’s tell your story—together.