Spectacular, Spectacular
No words in the vernacular
Can’t describe this great event
You’ll be dumb with wonderment
Returns are fixed at ten percent
You must agree, that’s excellent
And on top of your fee
You’ll be involved artistically….
- Moulin Rouge
Moulin Rouge
Last weekend, I had the
great honor of being a bridesmaid in my dear friends, Kurt +
Anjali’s,
Hindu/ Jewish wedding in DC.
It. was. spectacular. The weekend was an absolute whirlwind of colorful saris, delicious Indian food, beautiful ceremonies and constant celebration. Honestly, it’s taken me until now to process it all. Anjali was the most divine bride and Kurt was pretty darn handsome, too. They looked so happy all weekend and I had total blast with them and their amazing friends and family from all over the world.
The bride + groom:
Kurt + Anjali
Don’t they look so regal?! Gorgeous.
On Thursday, we attended Anjali’s henna party. My henna has only faded a little bit over the past week. It doesn’t quite match my Halloween costume, but whatev. This is probably as close as I will ever come to a tattoo - so I am enjoying rocking it while I can!
Anj getting her henna
Shibani's hands
Friday held two Hindu ceremonies: Grah Shanti and Mosalu.
Grah Shanti: Religious ceremony when Anjali’s parents pray for cosmic harmony – all the stars and planets to be aligned properly – so that Kurt + Anj’s marriage will proceed without cosmic disruption.
Grah Shanti
Mosalu: Family presents Anjali with her wedding jewels. (This was my favorite part!)
Dancing in the streets!
Mosalu
Although it was a little difficult to closely follow what was happening at all times, Friday was an incredibly interesting and beautiful day to witness.
On Friday evening, we had a rehearsal for the Jewish wedding and a rehearsal dinner at a delicious Mediterranean restaurant on U Street called Tabaq Bistro: http://www.tabaqdc.com/. (I could hardly believe that I was still standing by this point.) But, it wasn’t over yet!! Early Saturday morning, we arrived at Anjali’s house and started getting ready for the Hindu Ceremony at Mellon Auditorium: http://www.mellonauditorium.com/. Mellon is one of the most beautiful venues I’ve ever seen. I wish we had someting like it in Atlanta.
Saris! Saris! Saris!
The Hindu ceremony was AMAZING. Kurt arrived via horse! (Yes, HORSE!)
Kurt + Horse
Hindu Ceremony
The Hindu ceremony was approximately an hour long, followed by a very fast wardrobe change to prepare for the Jewish ceremony. The guests cocktail hour-ed and then everyone reconvened in the Main Hall. The Jewish ceremony was just as beautiful at the Hindu one! Look:
Me + The Lovely Bride
Jewish ceremony
MARRIED!
Finally, it was time to party! We had such a blast…and I totally ate my weight in Indian food!
Mellon Auditorium
MAZEL TOV!
Mazel tov, Kurt + Anjali! It was a truly unforgettable weekend. I am so happy for y’all!!
xx, L
