The Enchanted Forest

Growing up, I had friends from several different cultures. I always took interest in their traditions, foods, language, and culture. As a wedding planner, I acquired a new interest: celebrations. Suchi reached out to me for day-of planning services for her South Asian wedding. She needed someone to help with set up, be the common thread between family members assisting, and make a few custom designs. Although South Asian weddings are not my exact specialty, Suchi approached the wedding with understanding and kindness. Between her help and the internet, I got an education that was priceless.

It was truly a treat to watch Suchi and Simran's wedding vision come to life. In their culture, there is more of an emphasis on showcasing the bride and groom. Instead of arches and sweetheart tables, there are stages. The two were glowing next to each other under the mandap and chandeliers. To keep guests entertained during the ceremony, they offered rose lassis, trail mix, and popcorn. It was also a wonderful sight to see how family members and guests are part of the overall morning celebrations, from the baraat, blessings, and the ceremony itself. It's quite a contrast from the Western weddings I have planned.

The venue is a blank canvas, waiting for a couple and decorator to have vision to make the place larger than life. For the couple's reception, they chose to turn The Merion into an enchanted, dreamy forest. About 8' foot trees were scattered around the venue, followed by tall, flowing centerpieces. To add to their theme, I designed table numbers with pressed flowers inside, each named by the different forests around the world.

It was truly an honor to be part of Suchi and Simran's day. If I were to carry anything from that day over to any weddings I plan in the future, I can say:

1. Find ways to get the family and guests involved in the traditions you are displaying and setting. From my impression, it makes everyone feel like they are part of something bigger than themselves.

2. Don't be afraid to dress up your sweetheart table or area because at the end of the day, it's all about the bride and groom.

3. Dream big and think of themes that can make your wedding stand out from the crowd.

4. Find ways to be creative with your program or visual timeline. You can place your info on fans or even popcorn boxes to keep guests entertained during long ceremonies.

Love, Rose: Day of coordination, welcome sign, table numbers

Venue: The Merion

Decorations: JP Decor

Flowers: Eva Madeliena

Note: Will update post with photos from the photographer. Stay tuned!

Ceremony room with the mandap at the end.

Reception staging

Baraat horse

The unique Vidai car

Flowing centerpieces

Custom welcome sign