Big Indian Wedding in Sun City, SA

Apr 30, 2013 Destination Weddings Leave a comment

Soon after Vega, daughter of Achla and Anil Kumar Gupta from Saharanpur got engaged to Delhi boy Aakash Garg Jahajgarhia, her parents were thinking of Mauritius, Italy or Spain as the venues for the Destination Wedding. But the bride-to-be wanted it in Sun City, because she was emotionally attached to Johannesburg, having spent many of her summer holidays and later college years there.

While we have often blogged about shaadis in Thailand and Bali, Mauritius and Malaysia, Macau and more recently Europe this is the first time we’re talking about a Destination Wedding in Africa’s glamorous leisure oasis. Vega and Aakash’s five day wedding celebrations commence at Sun City today, ending with the finale, a royal gala on May 3rd. The different functions are at The Palace of the Lost City, Sun City’s five star flagship Hotel. A fantasy world come to life, the Lost City has incredible jungles, cliff-tumbling gardens, sparkling streams, water falls, swimming pools and entertainment areas.

For the 400 guests, over 200 of who will be flying in from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh this will undoubtedly be an experience with a difference, a rare combination of African luxury and traditional Indian festivities. A number of local guests will be attending the wedding too- the bride’s maternal uncles Atul, Rajesh and Ajay Gupta are the owners of Johannesburg based The New Age Newspaper and Sahara Computers. The celebrations commence with the traditional ‘Godh Bhari’ at the Pool Deck. The Mehendi and Bhajans are at the Elephant Courtyard, the theme of the Engagement is ‘Fashion forward’ and after the traditional nuptials is a ‘Royal’ theme dinner at the Grand Ballroom. The finale is a Royal Gala at the Super Bowl Entertainment Center. In between all the hectic festivities, the guests will spend their leisure time pursuing a variety of leisure and water-borne activities- hot air balloon rides, game drives and water sports on the lake.

A week after the newly-weds and their families return to India, a Grand Reception for over 5,000 guests takes place in Saharanpur, where the bride’s father runs a Chemical, Investment and Real Estate company. Groom Aakash Garg Jahajgarhia, a post graduate in International Business from London works in his family business, the Jahajgarhia Group headquartered in Punjabi Bagh, Delhi.

Wedding Details

Event Management: Wizcraft
Bollywood Extravaganza: Performances by Sonu Nigam, Vishal-Shekhar and Shankar Mahadevan
Special Invitees: Actor Anil Kapoor, Actress Esha Gupta
Bride’s Wardrobe Styling: Manish Malhotra
Food: All-Vegetarian fare, Indian and Continental prepared by a team of Chefs from India and South Africa under the direction of legendary Chef Marut Sikka
Invitation Cards: A colorful box with invitations and six fancy containers containing a delicacy from six different continents, designed by Puneet Gupta Luxury

Real Grooms, Real Style

Apr 29, 2013 Fashion & Bridal Wear Leave a comment

Businessman Swapnil from Nagpur is tying the knot soon, and for his Destination Wedding he was looking for clothes that blend international fashion with Indian sensibilities. Swapnil’s friend, a Mumbai based Creative Entrepreneur suggested he visit Studio Aboutir in South Mumbai’s fashion hub Kala Ghoda. Says Swapnil: “My friend mentioned they have what it takes to make a style-statement on a special occasion. So I made a trip to Mumbai to visit Studio Aboutir and was truly impressed with their trend-setting designs. And they have just what I was looking for- Sherwanis and Kurtas with an international feel.”

Nehru Jacket- “Stylish and masculine with a sense of fun” is how Devinaa Chohan of Studio Aboutir describes the linen creation, a reversible jacket in shades of blue and lilac. Team it with a knee length kurta or a Chinese collar shirt. And for trousers- breeches or a slim fit pant or a traditional salwar. Perfect for day as well as evening functions.

Jodhpur jacket- Classic Elegance. In a refined ivory shade, not only looks classy but feels comfortable too. Pair it with the breeches or pencil thin pants for a day or evening look.

Timeless Classic- Bandhgala. A brocade bandhgala in black with a hint of gold. Wear it with breeches or slim pants to look stylish and glam.

Studio Aboutir- Sassoon Building, Next to Fab India store, Kalaghoda, Mumbai.

Photos Courtesy- Dev Purbiya

The Royal Jiva Spa Boat

Apr 26, 2013 Taj Hotels Resorts Palaces Leave a comment

Soak your senses at the Royal Jiva Spa Boat on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola. This unique spa experience recreates the splendor of the Lake Palace, the royal traditions of the House of Mewar and the rejuvenating experiences of the Jiva Spa.

Inspired by the style of the old palaces of Udaipur, the Jiva Spa Boat evokes the stately air of past royal cruises aboard the House of Mewar’s ceremonial Gangaur barge. The design of the boat fuses historical and regal references with contemporary design, featuring a spacious, air conditioned double spa suite, a relaxation lounge, steam bath and shower. The suite opens out onto a large sky deck, which offers a soak pool, traditional lounging bed and dining area with views to the Aravalli Mountains– the oldest in the world.

The Jiva Spa menu has been designed to nurture the individual’s Jiva or ‘Life Force’ as the name signifies. Guests can choose tailor made spa experiences to suit their mood. For the treatment, we recommend you pick the Royal Spa Sojourn with Mewar Khas, a luxurious pre-bathing ritual practiced by royalty in preparation for their wedding day! After the treatment, recline on the private deck and enjoy drinks and freshly prepared meals, which are served through the day.

Thailand wins Best International Wedding Destination Award. Langkawi Best Honeymoon Destination

Apr 25, 2013 Destination Weddings, Honeymoon Leave a comment

Travel + Leisure India & South Asia, announced the results of its second edition of India’s Best Awards at an exclusive event at the Taj Lands End, Mumbai on 23rd April. The polling was conducted as a reader’s poll over a period of five months, and culminated in the announcement at the Awards Ceremony. 54 awards were presented across different categories that range from the best country, emerging destination, cruise, business hotel, airport, luxury train, destination spa and honeymoon. Presenting the findings of their poll on the popular Wedding/ Honeymoon Destinations, and the Best Hotels in India.

Best Wedding Destination

World- Thailand
India- Udaipur

Seen here, newly weds Shradha and Kunal at Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Thailand
Photo Courtesy- Mili Ghosh Photography

Seen here, newly weds Veera and Jatin at Devi Garh by Lebua, Udaipur
Photo Courtesy- Anand Rathi

Best Honeymoon Destination
World- Langkawi, Malaysia
India- Goa

Langkawi- the archetypical romantic holiday island
Photo Courtesy- Better Photography

Best Hotel Group- India
Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces

Best Heritage Hotel- India
Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

Best Luxury Resort- India
The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

Best New Hotel- India
Grand Hyatt, Goa

Best Destination Spa
World- Banyan Tree Spa Phuket
India- Ananda in the Himalayas/ Jiva Spa

A Spectacular Shaadi in Dubai

Apr 23, 2013 Wedding People & Planners Leave a comment

Saif and Tanim’s Shaadi was a colorful and fun-filled extravaganza planned to precision by Dubai’s ace Wedding Planner Rimjhim Bhagchandani

The celebrations commenced with a fun night of performances at the Mehendi function in Sheraton Creek Diera. Bright and fun colors all around the ballroom, a stunning Sabyasachi outfit worn by Tarnim and loads of adrenaline pumping performances by both sides of the families made for a perfect mehendi evening.

The wedding venue was Madinat Jumeirah on Jumeirah beach. The setting was the Joharah ballroom of Madinat Jumeirah, the stage was over 50 feet wide and put together splendidly. A smaller draped stage to one side of the main stage was where the the Nikaah was held. After the Nikaah, Saif and Tarnim entered together lead by an entourage of Dabka dancers. After the evening concluded, rukhsati happened at the pier where the couple boarded a small boat and bid goodbye to the guests.

The Walima was held at The Symphony Ballroom at the Address hotel in downtown Dubai. Says US based Mili Ghosh who photographed all the wedding functions: “Tarnim looked stunning in her bright red Manish Malhotra anarkali and her classic look took me back to the 50s bollywood.” A Tanoora dancer and the ‘drums of the world’ group entertained guests throughout the Walima evening. The long swirling colorful skirts that the Tanoura performer wore made spectacular patterns as he twirled around in circles. ‘Drums of the World’ percussion ensemble is a uniquely dynamic musical collective, it takes the form of a facilitated jazz/fusion ensemble using duns duns, djembes, tablas, doumbeks, clay pots, mouth harp, shekeres, bongos, and other world percussion instruments, that provide exciting vibes.

The evening concluded with a very fun and interactive drumming lesson session between the guests and the performers.

Photographs Courtesy- Mili Ghosh Photography

Win a holiday to Queensland

Apr 22, 2013 Honeymoon Leave a comment

Participate in the ‘Holiday Money Can’t Buy’ contest, and you can win a holiday for two to the luxurious Hamilton and Hayman Islands in Queensland, Australia. Set in the heart of the spectacular Great Barrier Reef, these islands represent the luxury and beauty that Queensland is renowned for. In addition, the winner will get to enjoy an exclusive dinner designed by Australia’s best opening batsman, Queenslander, Matthew Hayden! The prize includes two return air tickets on Singapore Airlines or SilkAir from any one of the 11 Indian cities Singapore Airlines & SilkAir operate from – Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Thiruvananthapuram and Visakhapatnam.

Announcing this exciting competition to his Facebook & Twitter fans, Matthew Hayden said “I am delighted to be part of his competition with Tourism and Events Queensland and Singapore Airlines. I would love to showcase fusion Aussie cuisine or anything special the winners would like me to stir up for them in Queensland. Being very passionate about both travel and food, this is a great opportunity to engage with the winners, share some wonderful experiences in Queensland and maybe some Indian recipes!”

The contest closes on April 30, 2013 and the winner will be announced on May 31, 2013. To enter the contest log on to www.holidaymoneycantbuy.com and answer three simple questions. A lucky couple will win a trip to Queensland, where Australia shines and a culinary journey crafted by master batsman and chef, Matthew Hayden!

Anushka Sharma, Vishal-Shekhar to perform at Fairytale Wedding in Florence

Apr 19, 2013 Celeb Weddings to Watch out for Leave a comment

An Indian wedding is making big news in Florence. Aradhana, the daughter of Aloke Lohia of Thailand based Indorama Ventures is marrying Kuala Lumpur/ London based Kevin Sharma, and since last week hectic preparations have been going on in the city. According to a local newspaper, the city is excited about the wedding, but has been a little inconvenienced too thanks to the outdoor set-ups and elaborate arrangements. Over 500 guests from all the world are attending the celebrations which commenced on Thursday night and go on till Sunday. While most of the guests are staying at St Regis and Westin Excelsior, the different celebrations take place at four different venues- the Teatro della Pergola, Palazzo Pitti, Palazzo Corsini and Ville Le Corti in San Casciano.

While some of the biggest names in decor and florals from France and Italy are involved with the wedding, a number of artists and wedding specialists have flown in from India. Actress Anushka Sharma arrives with her 5 member contingent to perform at the Sangeet, musical duo Vishal-Shekhar also perform at the Sangeet while noted devotional & playback singer Richa Sharma will sing at the main Wedding function. Ace Wedding Photographer Prakash Tilokani from Delhi is capturing the special moments while Mumbai’s Makeup Maestro Ojas Rajani will dress the bride who will be wearing stunning ensembles by ace couturiers Abu-Sandeep and Tarun Tahiliani.

Aloke Lohia, ranked by Forbes as the richest Indian in Thailand and eight richest man there, hosted Aradhana and Kevin’s grand engagement in Bangkok last year. This is the second time an Indian business baron’s daughter is getting married in Florence. In 2010, Sajjan and Sangita Jindal hosted their daughters marriage there. The Jindals who are close friends of the Lohias are back in Florence, but this time as wedding guests.

Actress Anushka Sharma

The Gentleman with the Magic Brush

Apr 15, 2013 Fashion & Bridal Wear 2 Comments

By Jaspreet Soni

Guru (Gursewak Singh) is at work, a young and creative guy wielding the brush to prepare the bride for her special day. A Sikh gentleman who makes brides and models even better than perfect, Delhi based Guru earlier worked with MAC and is now a freelance Makeup Artist. His great sense of humor, passion for make-up and his unique identity makes a perfect combination for a good conversation.

Guru at work

Gursewak studied fashion designing and as he passed out, all he wanted to do was make-up. He says, “While studying fashion designing, you get to be a part of lot of shows and exhibitions. I was always interested in what happened in make-up so I used to take care of the make-up section. Colors and beauty always fascinated me. So when it was time to intern, I did not want to intern with a designer but just pursue make-up. I got my first break with ‘Make up Forever’ and within three months, I became a trainer with them and was posted at their first store in Bangalore.” Later on, he was a part of the team that worked on Miss India 2009 and Lakme Fashion Week and then he took up a full-time job with MAC. He owes his success to MAC. He says, “MAC has given me a lot of exposure, experience, skills, professionalism –everything. They sent me to Turkey on an international meet where every country is represented by two artists and I was privileged to be chosen.” But now that he is freelancing, he says it is more fun. “When I am freelancing I get to meet more people, real people, the challenges are more and hence life is more interesting.”

Bridal Makeup by Gursewak Singh

A Sikh gentleman in the field of make-up is unheard of. People do get more interested in his appearance as Gursewak narrates an interesting incident, “I was in Istanbul doing make-up and people instead of focusing on what I was talking about were busy asking how long was my turban and when I told them it was 5 meters, they sprung up in surprise and said that it makes a full bed sheet. So sometimes it becomes a distraction but I don’t mind. I make sure that their attention is diverted back to the make-up and not my appearance.” Initially it was a barrier but since he has been in the industry for more than 5 years, he knows how to break the ice and he infers, “At the end of the day, it is your work that speaks. Brides and other clients are least interested in your identity or whether you are male or a female, what matters is what you are giving them. It is not what you are but what you give.”

His idea of make-up is very simple. “When you say make-up, you don’t have to paint the face but accentuate the features. So for me less is more.” His inspiration is Mickey Contractor and Alex Box whose make-up is truly an art. He says, “While Mickey is my guru in the true sense, Alex Box is artistry personified. Whenever I look at her, I feel immensely inspired. I can just keep listening to what she has to say.”

Gursewak concludes with his advice for WeddingSutra readers, “Hire the services of a Makeup Artist only if you’re comfortable with him or her, and after you have left your Makeup in his hands, be open to ideas or be sure about what you want.”

WeddingSutra on Location

Apr 12, 2013 Fashion & Bridal Wear Leave a comment

Getting married this year! Want to discuss ideas on your wedding day look. WeddingSutra is giving three to-be-brides a unique opportunity- a Complimentary one hour bridal consultation with Ace Stylist Nisha Kundnani, Makeup Artist Amrita Sanghavi and Candid Photographer Dev Purbiya.

Get a complete ‘Bridal Wardrobe Look’ consultation on how to pick the wedding outfit complimentary to your body type and personality, experience the look you prefer with a trial makeup and photo shoot in the makeup look.

Location- JADE by Monica & Karishma, Peddar Road, Mumbai.
Date- Thursday, 18th April, 2013

To win* this unique experience email weddingsutra@gmail.com mentioning your wedding date and contact nos.

*We will accept emails till Saturday, 13th April (12 noon). We expect to receive many emails, but can give the opportunity to three to-be-brides only. Those who are selected will be informed by Tuesday, 16th April (12 noon).

Florence gets set for the Maharajah Style Wedding

Apr 9, 2013 Celeb Weddings to Watch out for, Destination Weddings Leave a comment

It is expected to be the most magnificent Shaadi of the year. The bride-to-be Aradhana is the daughter of Aloke Lohia, the richest Indian and six richest man in Thailand. Aradhana is marrying Kevin Sharma from Kuala Lumpur and expected at the three day celebrations are business tycoons from India, the couple’s family and friends from Thailand and Malaysia and close business associates of Aloke Lohia who is the Vice Chairman and Group CEO of Indorama Ventures PCL. The mega event is being orchestrated by the bride’s mother Suchitra Lohia in association with a prominent Wedding Planner from Delhi. Several other vendors from India including Entertainers and Makeup & Mehendi Artists are excitedly preparing for Destination Florence. The venues for the three day celebrations are the landmark St Regis and Westin Excelsior Hotels and the spectacular estate owned by Italy’s famed Corsini Family. The Lohias have roped in some of the most respected names in the food and floral business from Europe. The Catering is by a famed restaurant from Sorrento and the floral designer is a well-known name from France. With a mix of wedding specialists from India, Italy and France working behind the scenes, this is expected to be an all-new experience for all the wedding professionals.

Landmark hotels St Regis and Westin Excelsior, the venues for the Lohia wedding in Florence.

The last big Indian wedding to take place in Florence was in June 2010 when Industrialist Sajjan Jindal hosted his daughter’s marriage there. Since then a number of Florence based Wedding Planners and venues were looking forward to hosting big and colorful Indian weddings. On that account Florence may have been disappointed, because this is only the second big Indian wedding to take place there.

Villa Le Rose and the spectacular lawns of the Four Seasons, the venues for the Jindal Wedding which took place in 2010

Suchitra and Aloke Lohia have three children. Aradhana graduated from Babson College and was working as a Strategy and Planning Analyst in the family business in Thailand. Their younger son Yash recently joined the family business and youngest son Anuj is studying. Aradhana and Kevin’s engagement was an elegant river side soiree in Bangkok last year.