That’s the happy couple that was the inspiration for this custom-made wedding cake topper featured in last week’s Wedding Wednesday post.

No doubt the topper was awesome, but so was every part of this celebration.

This couple’s event started with a barraat – when the groom’s family brings the groom to meet the bride’s family. From what I understand, traditionally in Hindu weddings, the groom was brought in on a white elephant, now he’s often brought in on a white horse. This couple was pretty modern – but they still wanted a nod to tradition – so the groom was brought in on a Model T.

There’s a drummer and music, and the guests dance while they process.

Then the families officially meet and there is a short ceremony called the milini where the Brahmin (Hindu priest) announces the names of the men in the family – fathers, uncles, brothers, etc. – they exchange greetings and garlands.

The couple was married in a traditional Hindu ceremony. It was just so beautiful. They live in Washington, D.C., so they had to plan long distance, which had its challenges. And then all the details of the Hindu wedding added even more, since there were days of events that needed to be coordinated.

Through all the planning and coordinating, you could tell that they really just wanted to be married to each other. It was genuinely sweet.

After the ceremony, guests went upstairs to the Lovett Hass ballroom for the reception. After the bride and groom were introduced, family members gave toasts and they had dancers perform Indian dances.

For the cocktail reception, they had Indian hors d’oeuvres; the dinner was an American plated dinner, and for dessert, they had a sweet station. Their décor was simple yet elegant.

I know, you want to see more. So here’s the link to the photographer, Kristen Taylor’s, blog post on the event. (Thanks Kristen! The photos are gorgeous.)

So, enjoy. We sure did.

Christina Dodge is The Henry Ford’s social events manager and a member of the Association of Bridal Consultants.  She helps plan and bring to life the stunning weddings held at The Henry Ford.