From the first time we talked via Skype, Olivia and Gaurav were clear that their ceremony would honor elements of each of their families – traditional Hindu outfits, Jewish-style hora dance, and a joint ceremony combining pieces of each.
It was equally clear that they would be enjoying their wedding immensely – laughing with their families, celebrating with their friends, joyously joining their lives.
And they nailed it.
ABOUT THIS MIX OF HINDU AND JEWISH WEDDING TRADITIONS
It was amazing how effortlessly this blending of cultures felt for the wedding day – they were married under in structure that served as both a chuppa and a mandap – housing their ceremony that contained elements of both traditions.
They had a sangeet the night before with mehndi and more dancing in the indian tradition.
The hora was exuberantly joined in by everybody (as all good horas are).
Olivia’s mom helped to pin together the pieces of her Sari. She and Guarav signed a ketubah before the ceremony.
Making a set of wedding celebrations will always be a personal and intimate experience. But this blending of traditions was done with such care and respect that it made one awesome day for all guests, who were able to celebrate fully and then leave the night dancing hard.
Nothing is possible without other amazing event professionals. This one came together with this group:
Planner: Rosetree Events
Venue: Interlachen Country Club
Beauty: Primped MN
Desserts: @amyscupcakeshoppe
Entertainment: The Sevilles
Floral: @marthasgardens
Stationery: @milestonepaper
Video: @skyfocusfilms
Bride: Raaz Inc
This might be my favorite image – Olivia in her sari, Guarav giving her a kiss, bathed in the light of Minnesota summer 
A quiet moment at her home, Olivia’s hands are covered in henna from the mehndi party the night before 
Semi-obscured by trees, vibrant and joyful all the same! 
Olivia got ready at her parents house, with her mom’s help. This image of her parents together as she puts on the final touches says more about my feelings toward documentary wedding photography than any writing ever could. 
That Minnesota summer light is a gift that I will gladly take and return as images I love. 
A little mehndi, a little coffee, the perfect beginning to the wedding day 
A first look, among the pines, with all the best of summer. 
A silhouette to show the blue blue sky and the outlines of Olivia and Guarav’s hindu jewish wedding ceremony 
The best horas always involve a touch of terror but no actual broken bones. This one delivered on all counts. 
