In the Hindu tradition, rain on your wedding day is considered lucky and believed to foretell a strong marriage and symbolize fortune and abundance falling generously on the bride and groom. So, when the rain started falling on Sam and Priya’s wedding day, it did not dampen the positive energy this couple exudes.
I had the joy of second shooting Sam and Priya’s traditional Indian wedding at Deer Park Villa in Fairfax, CA, with fellow NorCal traveling photographer Shannon Rosan. As a second shooter, it’s my job to capture the day’s surrounding details while the primary photographer works through their shot list. I started the day capturing Getting Ready photos at the bridal suite. Once everyone was ready, Sam and Priya did a first look. We took all of their bride and groom portraits before the ceremony so they could be wholly present with their guests afterward. (Taking these pictures first ended up working out wonderfully, too, because the rain held during their portraits!) From Priya’s crimson veil, bridal henna, and jewelry to Sam’s golden mojari shoes, the ornate details of the bride and groom’s traditional Indian wedding wear were breathtaking. The shades of red and gold stood out against the drizzly backdrop of Deer Park Villa’s abundant greenery.
With both the bride and groom ready, and their portraits taken, it was time for the baraat! A baraat is a celebratory horseback wedding procession. While it is traditionally the groom that participates, Sam and Priya opted to personalize their baraat and have Priya be the one to ride a white mare to the ceremony site. Once Priya arrived, there was then an epic dance party in the rain all the way to the Mandap, a traditional Hindu wedding altar. Sam and Priya held their Indian ceremony under an ornate ivory and gold mandap, which was itself under a tent with a clear top to keep the rain out. Sam and Priya finished their ceremony western-style personal vows and a kiss to celebrate their marriage.
The celebration after the ceremony was all about good food, dancing, and positive vibes. Sam and Priya’s reception was centered around guest experience and being present with their loved ones on their wedding day. The happy energy that this couple and their guests created left an impact on me. I am confident that the luck of rain on their wedding day will follow Sam and Priya into their marriage.
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