Priyanka and Shawn’s Sangeet at Lincolnshire Marriott Resort

This, my friends, is what we call one crazy-gorgeous celebration: a three-day extravaganza with an explosion of vibrant colors and one love-filled moment after another. Indian weddings are my favorite, and I was lucky enough to get to spend the entire weekend shooting it all for Priyanka and Shawn, beginning with their Sangeet and Mehndi, followed by a rehearsal dinner and culminating in a mixed Indian and Catholic wedding.

As a photographer I love being a fly on the wall – observing all the rituals and customs that take place prior to a wedding ceremony. Here at the Sangeet, which took place at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort outside of Chicago, it is a time for celebrating, singing and dancing. This is a festive contrast to the Mehndi, an elegant ceremony in which the bride is adorned with henna. I’ve heard that some people believe that the darker the color of the Mehndi, the more the bride’s husband will love her – not that Priyanka will have any problems with this, judging by Shawn’s obvious adoration of her!

The entire weekend embraced so many gorgeous details – it’s like henna on a bride’s hands. With every go-through of the photos, there is something new to see. So go have a look. There is something beautiful, something different to inspire everyone. Priyanka and Shawn’s spectacular wedding will be posted next week!

xo, Melissa