Renu & Selvin – Indian wedding New Jersey – The Venetian, NJ

I love photographing Indian weddings – they are invariably colorful events with many traditional customs, often interwoven with modern customs. And always friendly people. It all adds up making it a fun, if long day, photographing an Indian wedding. Renu and Selvin had their ceremony at Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ. Styled to look like the Notre Dame cathedral, it is an imposing church  – beautiful and spacious.

Their ceremony included the traditional elements such as the Blessing of the Thali, and the Blessing of the Manthrakodi – ‘Garment Prayers’. The groom ties the Thali around the bride’s neck, symbolizing their unity and oneness in marriage. The Manthrakodi, which translates into “garment of the prayers”, is given by the groom and draped over the bride’s head. This the bride’s blessing and acceptance into the groom’s family.

After the church ceremony we stopped off at a nearby lake for photographs of the bridal party. Then onwards to their reception at one of the premier wedding reception venues in New Jersey – The Venetian. We photographed all the family groups, as well as the romantic portraits of the bride and groom in the main courtyard at The Venetian.

What made this wedding even more remarkable to photograph, was the gracious nature of the couple. It is always a treat photographing a wedding of lovely people. Renu & Selvin, congratulations, and best wishes on your future together!

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