Red and Purple Indian Wedding at Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa
The gorgeous bride, in all her wedding finery! Indian brides wear red as a symbol of prosperity and fertility.
Bridesmaids in white and burgundy saris share a laugh with their friend before she goes down the aisle.
Here the whole wedding party goofs around for the camera on the tree-studded golf course.
The groomsmen, dressed in scarlet sherwani, strike a pose behind the star of the show--the bride!
The groom sports a silk wedding turban, or safa, while the bride is luminous with her exotic wedding jewelry.
The entire wedding makes a grand entrance through the landscaped grounds, carrying the groom aloft.
Friends and family are joyous, dancing their way to the ceremony site.
Groomsmen and drummers lead the way.
The wedding aisle is lined with purple orchids in illuminated glass vases--so elegant!
The bride's large gold nose ring (called a nath) is traditional in some regions of India.
The couple exchanges garlands of white and red flowers, which in a Hindu ceremony symbolizes the acceptance of one another.
The bride puts the wedding ring on her beloved's hand. Notice her ornate henna design?
The newlyweds are seated together beneath a white mandap--they look so happy! Their venue also arranged to have the traditional ceremonial fire pit right inside the ballroom!
The couple has changed into less formal, Western-influenced attire, and the bride has literally let her beautiful hair down! We love the way the groom's purple accents (tie, socks) harmonize with the orchids in her hair and the trim of her mint-green sari.
Stunning views are a perfect portrait backdrop.
Those unique orchid vases now become centerpieces, topped with tea lights!
This spacious ballroom is sumptuously outfitted with gold Chiarvari chairs, plush carpeting the color of sea and sky, and purple accent lights.
Dancing time! The newlyweds have planned both Western and Indian first dances.
The bride hugs her parents (notice Mom also has henna designs on her hands? It's a family thing!)
Everyone let's loose on the dance floor, in a colorful swirl of silk and smiles.
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Venue: Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa
Wedding Photographer: Lin & Jirsa Photography
Wedding Coordinator: Tejel Patel of Ambiance by Tejel
Bridal Makeup and Hair: Laenka by Myrium