In 2022, I had a very unique opportunity: to photograph a three-day Indian marriage ceremony. I had worked with A + J once before when I took their engagement photos, but their wedding was going to be out-of-state, and they had already booked a local photographer. So I was thrilled when they reached out again to book me for their Indian wedding ceremonies that the groom's family was hosting here in the Bay Area!
The first day was the Haldi, which is the Hindi word for "turmeric." Similar to some coming-of-age ceremonies, the bride- and groom-to-be are adorned with turmeric paste by their family members, which symbolizes both a cleansing before their wedding, and good luck for a prosperous future together!
Then, day two was the Mehndi — when the bride and some close family members have their hands and feet decorated with mehndi, or henna.
Lastly, the Sangeet was a day full of dancing and celebration. A close friend of the bride even brought a traditional Polynesian blanket and performed a dance in honor of multiple cultures coming together, which I loved!
