Cynthia Viola Photography

Blended Wedding Ceremony

Priya and Trevor's Indian-American Wedding at Brown Mountain Beach Resort

Wedding PhotographyCynthia Viola
In the flush of love’s light
We dare be brave
And suddenly we see
That love costs all we are
And will ever be.
Yet it is only love which sets us free
— Dr. Maya Angelou

Who wouldn’t love the opportunity to wear three different gorgeous outfits at their happy wedding celebration?!? Anyone who knows my photography style, knows I LOVE bold colors and Indian ceremonies are notorious for their incredible colors. I was SO excited when Priya messaged to say my colors would show off their day best. She also wanted a team of “female boss babe vendors” because she knew we would get *ish done! Obviously I loved her immediately!

From the beginning we knew the timeline would be a little complicated with two ceremonies in one day but it was super fun exploring the options and the various ways Brown Mountain Beach could accommodate what they were looking for.

Her family was coming in from India and his mostly from Texas but because they currently live in NC, they wanted to highlight the beauty of our lovely state. She wanted mountains and he wanted the beach. They could not have chosen a better venue.

After the rehearsal Monday evening, everyone was delighted to celebrate with dancing at their Sangeet. For those unfamiliar with the term, the word “Sangeet “ means  music, or in this case, Music Night or Musical party. This musical night is a celebration of the union of not only the couple but the bonding of both families. It is here that both sides bring down their barriers and mingle in a fun environment. Everyone had so much fun!

Tuesday morning preparations finished with a first look between Priya and her sweet parents before she met her groom at the aisle. They exchanged a few sweet moments, raved over her dress and wished her many blessings.

Seriously though… this dress. You guys. Can all my future weddings PLEASE have this many colors!! I am obsessed!

They were adamant that this ceremony represent who they are as a couple, and not the typical patriarchal traditions that typically come with wedding ceremonies. They wrote most of the bi-lingual service themselves, incorporating a few traditions they loved and creating new ones at the same time. It was a beautiful testament to their strength as individuals and as a newly bonded couple.

With the first ceremony in the books, everyone took a lunch break then changed outfits for the American ceremony. Trevor and Priya shared a first look this time and after solidifying their vows a second time, had fun with their wedding party and relaxed for the rest of the evening, full to the brim with the love of their blended families.

It was an absolute honor to be included in your big day you guys!! Let’s do it again soon! ;)

The Wedding Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola with Ashley Warren

Venue: Brown Mountain Beach Resort

Coordinator: Hillary with BMB

Indian Sari was flown over with Priya’s mother direct from their home town.

American Dress: New York Bride and Groom

Rings: James Allen

Hair and Make Up: Shipra Ajmera

Florist: Edgemont garden

DJ: Spin Fire Entertainment

Video: Breel Productions