Shivika and Ashish, Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur
A kaleidoscope of culture and colour, this destination wedding in Udaipur effortlessly fused the couple’s love for Indian traditions and Western glam.
Bringing to life a vision that merged timeless tradition with modern elegance, Shivika and Ashish’s destination wedding was a spellbinding celebration of love, culture, and creativity. Set against the vibrant landscape of Rajasthan, the festivities were meticulously orchestrated by WeddingSutra Favorite – Spring Diaries Events, who crafted every moment with personalised charm and depth.
How They Met
Based in New York City, Shivika and Ashish first crossed paths six years ago and have been inseparable ever since. In August 2023, Ashish surprised Shivika with a magical proposal on a sunset cruise in Hawaii—an unforgettable moment that marked the beginning of their forever. The celebrations began with a cosy engagement in January 2024, surrounded by loved ones, setting the tone for a spectacular wedding to follow.
Wedding Planning
“Shivika had a very defined vision,” shares Vineet Nalwaya from Spring Diaries Events, “Our role was to translate that into something deeply immersive, seamless, and emotionally resonant—not just for the couple, but for every guest who travelled across the world to celebrate with them.” With a Pinterest board for every detail and a strong visual direction, Shivika brought a clear aesthetic into the planning process. The core concept? A harmonious blend of Western and Indian sensibilities, where opulent Rajasthani elements met modern sophistication. Each event was designed to introduce guests, many visiting India for the first time, to the richness of Indian culture through curated menus, immersive décor, music, and meaningful traditions. “We wanted every element, from cocktails to centrepieces, to feel intentional and transportive,” says Vineet. “For us, it was about telling their story through every texture, tone, and taste.”
Wedding Functions
Welcome Dinner
The celebrations commenced with a sophisticated black-tie welcome dinner—elegant yet intimate. Drenched in a refined palette of black, gold, and ivory, the evening unfolded under a canopy of fairy lights and vintage lanterns that bathed the venue in a romantic glow. Tablescapes adorned with ivory candles added warmth, while manicured lawns dressed with delicate lights enhanced the natural charm. A standout installation featured polaroids of the couple’s cherished memories, beautifully lit and framed, inviting guests to contribute their own moments with an instant camera and marker.
Mehndi
A vibrant explosion of color, craft, and culture, the Mehndi ceremony was an ode to Rajasthani heritage. Ombre peacocks, camels, hand-painted puppets, and artisanal décor set a festive tone, while bold flavors and signature spicy cocktails delighted the palate. One of the highlights was the Perfume Bar, where guests created custom fragrances. The Meena Bazaar, with its curated stalls offering embroidered clutches, jhumkas, and bangles, was a runaway hit.
Sangeet
As twilight fell, the Sangeet shimmered to life, true to its theme of sparkle, glamour, and golden celebration. A canopy of starry lights and a showstopping champagne tower set the mood, while glitter bombs and dazzling performances raised the energy. The décor was awash in gold, rose gold, and champagne hues, creating a dazzling visual experience. Thoughtfully choreographed entrances, bespoke bar setups, and a glitzy stage transformed the evening into an immersive soirée. “Every detail was crafted to evoke wonder,” says Vineet. “We wanted it to feel like the couple was hosting their guests in a dreamscape of sparkle and celebration.”
Haldi
The joint Haldi ceremony was a breath of Mediterranean freshness. Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, it combined summer hues with Indian sensibility. Blue-and-white awnings, lemon-laden baskets, and yellow-orange blooms created a breezy, garden-party aesthetic. Guests sipped shikanji and nibbled on artisanal cookies while enjoying caricature portraits and the now-legendary Hangover Station—a thoughtful detail that proved both fun and functional.
Wedding
The grand finale unfolded like a page from a dream. Shivika envisioned a floral wonderland, and the concept of Garden of Dreams came alive through masterful planning and design. A unique mandap framed by arches of baby’s breath, an aisle flanked by cascading blooms, and interactive photo installations created a fantasy setting. Suspended butterflies over the dance floor, a striking LED-lit stage, and breathtaking centrepieces added to the immersive experience. As the couple exchanged vows, a live painter captured the scene—an heirloom now displayed in their Manhattan home. “Seeing it all come together was surreal,” shares the couple. “It was everything we hoped for, and so much more.”
The Wedding Makers
Venue: Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur
Wedding Decor & Design: Spring Diaries Events
Groom’s Outfits: Identity by Karen (Mehndi, Sangeet), Seema Gujral (Wedding)
Bride’s Outfits: Seema Gujral (Welcome Dinner, Sangeet), Papa Don’t Preach By Shubhika (Mehndi, Haldi), Manish Malhotra (Wedding)
