Pandemic Affected Wedding with a Surprise Bollywood Dance

Mounika and Vinay first met while working for the same company in Atlanta and were surprised when they found out they lived next door. After many conversations on train rides home, the pair quickly became best friends. Realization didn't hit they were meant to be together until they moved to separate cities. Distance has its own way of bringing hearts together, and their love quickly grew, culminating in a surprise proposal in New Orleans.

Since both Vinay and Mounika were raised in India, planning a wedding in Virginia was very new and exciting. Inspired by autumnal jewel-toned colors, they chose a color palette of reds, peach, and gold to create a glamorous look in The Renaissance's historic venue in the heart of Richmond with the help of their wedding planner, Richmond Bridal Consulting. To keep their loved ones' health and safety in mind, seating at both the church ceremony and the ballroom reception was arranged with social distancing in mind, hand sanitizer was available at every table, and guests wore face masks.

Mounika originally wanted to purchase traditional South Asian wedding attire from India to wear for their wedding reception, but was unable to because of the pandemic. Instead she chose a stunning rose gold gown with heavy crystal beads as a mix of Indo-western style which complemented Vinay's handsome burgundy red tuxedo for his own wardrobe change. Photographed by Marek K Photography, their bridesmaids and groomsmen brought the vibrant red and blues hues through suits and dresses that were made perfect with radiant smiles.

One of the couple's favorite moments of the night was when the bridesmaids surprised everyone with their own wardrobe change and a Bollywood dance performance during the reception. It was a bit of home-inspired joy that was a wonderful reminder that even COVID-affected weddings can be incredibly memorable.

VENDOR CREDITS:
Photography: Marek K Photography | Ceremony Venue: St Joseph's Villa | Reception Venue: The Renaissance | Wedding Planning: Richmond Bridal Consulting | Florals: Vogue Flowers | Videography: eMotion Pictures | Catering: Anant Cuisine of India | Music: DJ Geeta | Cake: Incredible Edibles Bakery | Makeup: Regan Wolfrey | Stationery: DIY | Hair Styling: Makeup by Holly | Bride's Wedding Dresses: David's Bridal | Groom's Blue Suit: Saks 5th Avenue | Groom's Burgundy Suit: Perfect Tux | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Groomsmen Attire: Macys | Bride's Veil, Hair Comb, & Earrings: Dareth Colburn | Bridal Belt: Amazon | Bride's Necklace: Macys

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