Mary and Chidu’s outdoor Irwin Garden wedding in Columbus, Indiana had a lovely mix of culture and elegance. Mary’s sublime taste was evident in every last detail. I was in wedding photographer heaven as Mary’s sari, stunning wedding gown, Emily Riggs Bridal garter, and several other details were beautiful to capture.

The intimate group that gathered for Mary and Chidu’s nuptials were lovely as well. Many flew from all over, including some of Chidu’s family from India, to partake in this special day.

For me, to see Mary in her Sari as well as see part of the process in how a Sari is wrapped, pleated, and arranged, was amazing. Then, the Crump announcing Mary and Chidu’s nuptials was such a unique and adorable idea. I was honored to document their big day and all the unforgettable  details it entailed.

Q&A with the Bride and Groom:

Favorite moment of the day?
Bride: My Mother officiating our ceremony
Groom: So many. All day, in fact. From waking up in the morning heart welling with happiness on the big day, to the fact that we kept smiling and laughing and remained unstressed through all the minor wrinkles, till the day pretty much went smoothly and according to plans, with nary a hiccup or crisis (most Indian weddings have some kinds crisis or drama!) Just loved how everyone was at ease, loved the way our small gathering transcended ethnicity and age and work and background — and embraced plurality. Was delighted there was no race or religion involved and was happy how secular it was. I didn’t see a trace of awkwardness or self-consciousness and it was marvelous to see how easily and comfortably India and Indiana embraced each other. All said, the absolute favorite moment was when we said “I Do” in voices that were strong, clear, and resonant.

Funniest moment? Bride: Rajesh (Best Man’s) long toast and kids waiting for the cake
Groom:Your mom, my mom-in-law, Sue Breeding, after saying “you may kiss the bride now,” follows up a few moments later while we are still kissing, with, “You guys want to save some for later?” Cracked me up.

Funniest moment 2: Just before we cut the wedding cake… Rajesh Kalra makes a long, rambling speech and all the while there are four kids right in front of us with plates and forks who can’t wait for the talk to end and the cake to be cut. Their expressions were a sight to behold. My heart melted and I had to cut Rajesh short:)))

Favorite detail?
Bride:Toss up between the Crump theater and the Maribelle wedding favors
Groom: Again, many. But I loved how easily we agreed on the inscription inside our rings — “Higher Ideals” — the sanctity and pursuit of which will infuse our life and spirit. Loved the wedding cake. And your bridal gown and veil — it was worth the endless trips to the boutiques and tailors and fitters, while all the while being denied a preview!

India wedding plans? We’ll be having our ceremony at our home in Bangalore home in July.

Wedding Details:
Catering: Geithin Thomas / Venue: Inn at Irwin Gardens in Columbus, Indiana / Flower: Claudia’s Florabunda / Cake: Icing on the Cake by Kristina Taylor / Wedding Favors: Mirabelle Chocolates /  Bridal Shoes: Kate Spade /  Bridesmaid dress: Jcrew / Garter: Emily Riggs Bridal/ Photography: Stacy Able Photography / Wedding Rings: Deepak Jain / Hair: Red Lips Spa / Violinist: Sam / Organizational Assistance: Mona Wirth Interiors

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