Sonam and Mikesh, Thailand
A dramatic thunderstorm added color and spectacle to this gorgeous Thailand wedding.
Not many people can tell you their future husband attended their first birthday party but destiny works in mysterious ways. A friendship that goes back a generation and one that was sustained across two continents has a good chance of evolving into love. Sonam and Mikesh got married in a beautiful ceremony overlooking a beach in Thailand. The wedding was immaculately planned & designed by WeddingSutra Favorite – Foreign Wedding Planners. Bride Sonam shares their love story below.
How they met
“We’re family friends who have known each other since we were born and brought up in Kenya. Both sets of families relocated to Australia around the same time. But it was only about five years ago that we started seeing each other in a new light. We realised we were always meant to be together.”
The Proposal
“We’d planned a Valentine’s Day getaway to Bali but I didn’t suspect it would be the most romantic and memorable trip of my life.. When Mikesh blindfolded me before the surprise I couldn’t have imagined what I’d open my eyes to. A very, very private dinner, in the heart of an offshore cave decorated with candles and roses!”
Wedding Venue
“We were certain we wanted a destination wedding. We’d had our first vacation together in Thailand and it held a special place in our hearts. So, after a lot of research we chose the JW Marriott in Khao Lak Resort & Spa, in Phang Nga district for its serene vistas, décor and great hospitality”.
Wedding Planning
“When it comes to destination weddings, the importance of a wedding planner cannot be stressed enough. We entrusted our wedding to Foreign Wedding Planners and it was the best decision ever! Even though we were communicating from different parts of the world, Neha and her team ensured the seamless execution of everything.”
The couple found their photographer, Lumens Photography at the Wedding Expo, and the perfect makeup artist through the wonders of social media. The wedding stationery was designed by Shivani of Design Dynamics, a close friend of the bride.
Wedding Functions
Sundowner Welcome Dinner
The three day wedding fiesta that would incorporate both Indian and Western cultural influences, began with a beachfront sundowner. A night of laidback mingling was enhanced with a luxe boho ambience created with strings of lights, candles, a color palette in blush, and cocktails. At sunset, the guests were enthralled by a magical performance by Thailand’s best fire dancers.
Pyjama Party
The sundowner party was by no means over. As night fell, a bubble machine, cotton candy station, teepee tents and mood lighting were set up. Club music began to play and the Pyjama Party began with a bang! From flaming shots to niche beats, the ambience and decor was on point and the music by DJ Mixtabishi had everyone grooving till sunrise.
Pool Party
Day two began with lunch by the pool. The vibrant decor included beach umbrellas, bright flowers, a rustic wooden bar, and pool toys and accessories for guests to splash around with. Unexpected showers just added to the fun with a welcome respite from the humidity and the chance for some amazing photos.
Sangeet
Lunch was followed by the mehendi and sangeet. These were hosted at a waterfront restaurant and were made memorable by performances by the couple, their friends and family! Killer music and mixes by DJ Mixtabishi kept everything absolutely rocking. A palette of deep maroon, gold and pink contrasted with crystal centrepieces, chandeliers and Moroccan lamps made for enigmatic décor.
Wedding
“The wedding day dawned to thunder, lightning and rain! A quick change of the venue from outdoors to indoors was managed efficiently by Neha and team. The backup setup on the deck overlooking the dewy lawns was beautiful, giving no hint that it was a Plan B. Crystal chandeliers suspended over the deck were elevated with green foliage along with white drapes over a bamboo structure. The rain just added to the ambience. Nature’s drama made our wedding much more memorable and the photos are just stunning! The clouds, the sky, everything was breathtaking. I wouldn’t have changed a thing.”
Reception
“We walked in to “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay- a song very close to our hearts. We cut the cake and then had our first dance as man and wife. Speeches followed and then everyone was invited on to the dance floor. In inimitable style, as the night progressed DJ Mixtabishi kept everyone on the floor! The event was held in the ballroom and the decor palette featured hues of gold and peach. Chandeliers, candles, elegant centerpieces and beautiful draping added to the romantic feel. We flew Bangkok-based bartenders Flairmix in and with their mixture of amazing cocktails, test tube shots and great skills they wowed everyone! I think the events were a huge success and Mikesh and I can say we had a dream wedding.”
The Wedding Makers
Venue: JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, Thailand
Wedding Planner & Designer: Foreign Wedding Planners
Bride’s Outfits: Sherri Hill (Welcome Dinner and Reception), Madi Lane (Wedding)
Groom’s Outfits: Politix (Welcome Dinner and Wedding), Millionaire (Reception)
Makeup artist: Kat Elizabeth Artistry
Wedding Stationary: Design Dynamics
DJ: Mixtabishi
Entertainment: Angkorn Performance
Photography and Videography: Lumens Photography