Aarti and Vikesh, Neel – Tote on the Turf, Mumbai

Aarti, a well-established Indian designer, and Vikesh a serial entrepreneur who associates with some of the biggest names in the industry, finally began their ‘happily ever after journey’ in a series of surreal ceremonies that celebrated their love in the dreamiest way possible. Captured by WeddingSutra Favorite – Knotting Bells, each photograph expressed a plethora of emotions that flowed breezily through their nuptials.

How They Met
Born and brought up in London, Aarti had known Vikesh, who was based in Lagos, for several years. Initially as acquaintances, the duo took their time to recognize their feelings for each other. But once they did, not even the thousands of miles between London and Lagos could stop them from falling deeply in love!

Wedding Venue
Held across famed venues in Mumbai, Aarti and Vikesh hit the jackpot when it came to choosing locations. With Cecconi’s Mumbai, Soho House Mumbai, and Dome Intercontinental witnessing the boisterous parties celebrating their last moments of singledom, it’s safe to say that this couple’s bachelorettes were a complete hit. No effort was spared for the other functions too, with the mehndi being held at the famed Gallops Restaurant, the wedding at the premium Neel – Tote on the Turf, and the reception at Asilo, a rooftop bar at the St. Regis.

Wedding Planning
Being heavyweights in their own line of work, the couple ensured that no stone was left unturned for their wedding by relying on a team of vendors who’ve made their mark as some of the best in the wedding industry. On the photography front, they chose Knotting Bells who with their superior skills that they have honed over years of experience, gave this couple one stunning click after another. Within their well-composed frames, not only did they capture the sheer splendor of their nuptials, but they also seized each emotion in enchanting frames.

Adding to the stellar team were Dinners by Nayantara who worked on the decor and brought Aarti’s vision to life with meticulous attention to each detail. Makeup artist Pakkhi P. Siroya and hairstylist Ritika Kadam worked their magic on the bride to create looks that were perfectly in sync with her wardrobe. DJ Shaan Gidwani and Tarang Singhal – The Percussionist, on the other hand, kept everyone’s spirits up with their groovy beats. Lending a dash of personalization to each function were customized and quirky elements by Dulhan Diaries.

Weddings Functions

Bachelorette
Biding singledom goodbye in style, the duo hosted three bachelorettes at three different locations that were filled with joy and friendly banter. Each party had a touch of personalization with unique gifts and favors.

Mehndi
Following the theme of ‘A Secret Garden’, the mehndi was hosted at the picturesque Gallops Restaurant, which, with its wide-open spaces offered plenty of opportunities for the bride to express her creativity. Making a memorable entrance with colored smoke bombs and floral umbrellas, the bride couldn’t stop smiling as she was cheered on by her loved ones. Peppered with pink balloons and an array of finger-licking food, the guests couldn’t be happier as they joined the bride to get henna patterned on their palms. For her mehndi favors, Aarti went a step further and personally designed custom-made hair clips for each guest. Keeping the spirits high and positive throughout the day was percussionist Tarang Singhal who awed everyone with his exceptional performance.

Glowing in a beautiful floral creation designed by herself, Aarti exuded soft glam. Adding a touch of whimsy to her look were custom made floral jewelry pieces that adorned her forehead and neck. Vikesh, however, contrasted delightfully with his bride in a dusty rose bandhgala.

Wedding
Expressing her affinity for gardens and blooms, Aarti’s wedding ceremony was centered around the theme of ‘The Palatial Gardens’. Surrounded by lush foliage, delicate blooms, and glowing fairy lights, the decor reflected the bride’s vision of a dreamy wedding under the night sky. To ensure the guests had optimal comfort throughout the proceedings, ample seating arrangements were made with pristine white sofas under sheer flowy canopies.

Expressing her exploratory side, the bride chose to take the less beaten path by ditching the traditional Indian bun hairdo and instead opted for a side braid adorned with flowers. Her outfit, designed by herself, had a beige and blue color palette with floral motifs all over the skirt. Taking a cue from his bride, the groom opted for a dark teal blue velvet bandhgala with silver embroidery details on the neck and sleeves.

Reception/Cocktail
Hosted on a rooftop bar, the reception/cocktail followed a ‘Garden Amidst the Sky’ theme and gave everyone a chance to witness the dazzling Mumbai skyline while being surrounded by the beauty of delicate blooms. With radiant LED candles and fairy lights casting a soft golden glow over the party, this grand affair had a distinctly intimate vibe to it as the newlyweds reveled in each other’s company. Custom made ‘#AVFinally’ stirrers also made its way to each drink and added a final flourish of personalization to the affair. However, as the night went on, there were plenty of smashing musical performances that made everyone shake a leg on the dancefloor.

Escalating the glamour quotient in a powder blue sequin gown, the bride looked radiant as she posed with her husband who complimented her in a well-cut, dark blue suit.

The Wedding Makers

Venues: Dome Intercontinental (Bachelorette), Soho House Mumbai (Bachelorette), Cecconi’s Mumbai (Bachelorette), Gallops Restaurant (Mehndi), Neel – Tote on the Turf (Wedding), Asilo – The St. Regis Mumbai (Reception/Cocktail)
Wedding Planner: Wedding Crafts
Décor: Dinners By Nayantara (Bachelorette, Mehndi), Bespoke Balloons (Bachelorette, Mehndi)
Decor Coordinator: Wedding Crafts (Mehndi)
Bride’s Outfits: Aarti Mahtani (Mehndi, Wedding, Reception/Cocktail)
Floral Jewelry: Floristaa Accessories
Accessories: Dulhan Diaries (Robe)
Makeup: Pakkhi P. Siroya
Hairstyling: Ritika Kadam
Entertainment: Tarang Singhal – The Percussionist (Mehndi), Art of Living (Wedding), Vyas Brothers (Reception/Cocktail)
DJ: DJ Shaan Gidwani (Mehndi)
Wedding Stationery: Dulhan Diaries (Reception/Cocktail, Bachelorette, Mehndi), The Wise Design (Reception/Cocktail, Wedding)
Cake: Mishmash Bakery (Bachelorette, Mehndi)
Wedding Favors: Dulhan Diaries (Bachelorette), The Wise Design (Bachelorette)

Photography: Knotting Bells

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