Hindu Ceremony at Natirar

I photographed my first Hindu ceremony last Saturday, and I absolutely loved every minute of it. First of all, Dana and Arun were awesome about walking me through what to expect. They were not at all concerned about the fact that I had never photographed an Indian wedding before, and I was so excited to experience something new!

I have a couple of takeaways from this wedding. First of all, Dana and Arun are the kindest, most generous and trusting bride and groom! Even though I was learning along the way, they trusted us to direct them every step of the day. And it was a long day! We’re talking two dresses, two outfits for the groom and bridal party, and a ceremony that is three times longer than most ceremonies I photograph!

Secondly, every wedding should introduce the groom with a Baraat! I’m serious! Instead of having the guests arrive and sit down for the ceremony, the Groom’s friends and family DANCE all the way to greet the friends and family of the Bride! Loud drums, lots of joy and so much energy!

The priest (or pujari) made it so easy to follow along with the rites of passage and it was so enjoyable to watch. Dana and Arun lucked out with a blue sky as they officially married under the cherry blossom mandap.

Post-wedding, we started all over again with Dana’s Monique Lhuillier dress and Arun’s custom tuxedo. This is actually a photographer’s dream come true (two dresses!)

Every detail was so well thought out, from the red dress and the colorful cherry blossoms forming the mandap, to the white classic wedding dress and the white cherry blossoms that filled the Natirar ballroom.

I’ll stop now, the pictures tell so much more! Dana and Arun, you were a pleasure to work with and we loved every minute that flew by on your wedding day! Thank you to Kelly Joyce and Maggie DiVirgilio for your awesome assistance!

Photographers: Lauren Kearns & Kelly Joyce

Photographer’s Assistant: Maggie DiVirgilio

Venue: The Mansion at Natirar, Peapack NJ

Wedding Planner: Stacey Sainato, Peony Events

Florist: Jardiniere Fine Flowers

Hair/Makeup: Beautini by Blo

Dress: Monique Lhuillier

Videographer: Mike Zhu Films

Entertainment: Hank Lane Music