Indian Elegance at The Mandarin Oriental DC {Natasha + Ravi}

Waking up to a beautiful spring day in May was the perfect start to the incredible day that was in store for Natasha and Ravi.  

The Bride, her sister and her mother had a relaxing morning in the Bride’s suite while makeup artists Carl Ray of Georges at the Four Seasons and Gustavo of Faces by Gustavo applied their makeup. The Bride then got dressed into her first sari of the day…a stunning cream and gold look.  While the girls were enjoying their morning, the Groom participated in a private prayer ceremony with his family before setting off for his Baraat, which took place in the circle in front of the hotel.  His family along with a DJ and dohl player (drummer) led the guests with lots of dancing and singing. 

Once the Baraat was done, the Bride’s family met Ravi outside of the Sikh ceremony where they performed the Milni just before entering the ceremony.  The ceremony, decorated in traditional reds and golds, was designed by Dharma Events and led by Sikh priest, Bhai Sahib.  

Guests were then escorted outside to the garden terrace where the Christian ceremony, led by officiant Amos Dodge, took place.  The ceremony area was framed by a wooden arc decorated with rich purple and pink flowers with hanging crystal strands.  The grass aisle was covered with bright purple petals and purple balls of flowers hung from a few of the aisle chairs to help frame the aisle.  The talented Cherry Blossom String Quartet played as the guests made their way to their seats and as the processional and recessional took place for the ceremony.  The bride wore another gorgeous cream and white sari for this ceremony as well.  

Following the Christian ceremony, guests were treated to an Indian buffet lunch prepared by the amazing Mandarin Oriental chef.  They were then able to explore or relax for a few hours before the evening’s festivities began.

As guests entered cocktails, they were greeted by a beautiful escort card table with a centerpiece make of purple feathers and smaller vases with orchids designed by Bill Enright of Edge Flowers.  The photographer, Kelsey Thompson, set up a “photobooth” area, including props, for guests to visit and use during both cocktails and dinner.   She is responsible for the beautiful photos in this blog.

The Grand Ballroom opened for dinner and guests were treated to a stunning room full of bright blue, purple and pink centerpieces, mirrored tables and rose lighting.  The cake, in all of its glory, was designed by Maggie Austin and the bright purples and pinks were used in the cake design.  For the Bride’s final outfit change, she wore a teal, purple and gold sari for the reception.

Once the dinner was complete, DJ Karan Kapoor and MC Vishal Suchdeve., from Dynasty Entertainment, turned up the hits and kept people on the dancefloor until the wee hours of the morning.  

Thank you to Bret Freeman at the Mandarin Oriental for EVERYTHING!  You and your team were instrumental on such a successful and special day for Natasha, Ravi and all of their friends and family.

Thank you to Tom Bowen Films for all of the amazing video captured from the day! 

Thank you to Steve at Swank Audio Visuals for the time you spent helping all of us create an amazing look with lighting!

Congratulations to Natasha and Ravi!!

Christine