Ramya Manikkan and Abhinandan, Grande Bay Resort And Spa, Chennai
This temple-inspired wedding mandap by the sea exuded old-school opulence!
Set against the scenic shores of Mahabalipuram, Ramya Manikkan and Abhinandan’s wedding unfolded as a poetic blend of modern sophistication and cultural heritage. Planned and designed by WeddingSutra Favorite – Spize Weddings and Events, the celebration reflected the couple’s global sensibility and deep-rooted traditions.
Wedding Planning
Reema Thakkar Tiwari from Spize Weddings and Events shares, “They were clear about wanting a beach wedding with a royal yet rooted aesthetic. With the bride hailing from Mumbai and the groom based in the US, they sought a planner who could interpret their vision with intimacy and precision.
We took inspiration from the famed stone architecture of Mahabalipuram and translated it into a mandap design that was regal, yet grounded in tradition. From the floral arrangements to the textures of the structures, every detail was meticulously conceptualised to honour their vision.”
Wedding Functions
Sangeet
The festivities began with a sundowner Sangeet that redefined tradition with a personal twist. Traditionally, a ceremonial welcome is accorded to the groom. However, Abhinandan felt it was time to reimagine this moment as a shared celebration. Instead, the couple made a grand entrance together, accompanied by dhol beats, special effects, and their beloved pup flown in from the US, arriving in a vintage car that instantly stole hearts. The atmosphere brimmed with joy as family and friends came together beneath a canopy of lights and music.
Bridal Shower
Held indoors with a soft pink and gold palette, the bridal shower was a fun, intimate gathering with close friends. The space was styled with balloons, florals, and custom décor that reflected Ramya’s vivacious personality.
Engagement
The engagement was a graceful prelude to the wedding rituals, bringing together close family in a warm setting. Though understated in scale, the ceremony was rich in emotion and symbolism, laying the foundation for the celebrations to come.
Wedding
The wedding ceremony was a stunning ode to traditional artistry by the sea. The mandap featured cement-finish pillars with intricate laser-cut florals, traditional mala hangings, and suspended floral chandeliers, all coming together in a design that echoed temple architecture while embracing modern finesse. Ramya’s bridal entry was nothing short of majestic—she was led to the mandap, surrounded by her family and loved ones. A highlight of the ceremony was the ‘Oonjal’ swing ritual, thoughtfully positioned by the beach. With brass décor, banana leaves, kolams, and fragrant florals, the ceremony radiated timeless charm.
The Wedding Makers
Venue: Grande Bay Resort And Spa, Chennai
Wedding Planner and Décor: Spize Weddings and Events
Photography: WedArtistry
