Neena and David – Jaipur, Rajasthan
David works in a multinational telecom corporation and Neena is a clothing and footwear designer. They met each other at a common friends' house warming party, and here they tell us about their destination wedding in Samode Palace, Jaipur.
Neena and David met at a common friends’ house warming party. David works in a multinational telecom corporation and Neena is a clothing and footwear designer. Here, the couple tells us more about their destination wedding in Samode Palace, Jaipur.
Wedding Venue
Says Neena, “As both side of our families belong to completely different cultures, we wanted to create a middle ground for them- out of their comfort zone where they could interact at ease like on a vacation detached from the mundane. We considered different venues in India, such as Rambagh Palace, Narain Niwas Palace and Samode Palace near Jaipur. As soon as we saw Samode Palace, we were sure this is where we want to get married! It had the right mix of a relaxed and non-commercial feel to it, was rustic with a strong history attached to it, and away from the hustle & bustle of the city. The property is managed and maintained very well with beautiful lawns, a nice swimming pool area, good restaurants and an overwhelming stall, so there is nothing more we could ask for.
Wedding Planning
We did not hire a wedding planner because we didn’t think it was required. We felt it’s more fun to plan the wedding together as a couple- it gives a more personalized touch to the functions.
The planning process was quite a smooth affair as the hotel managers were helpful and their staff always on their toes.
Wedding Functions
We did not create a theme for the wedding. The palace backdrop surrounded by the Aravalis amidst good company and good food was surreal enough.
We had four main functions spread over two days. It started with the Mehndi ceremony on the first afternoon, followed by the Tilak and Cocktail dinner in the evening. The wedding was scheduled at dusk the following day, after which we had a sit down dinner. The finale was a pool party which lasted till the next day.
Advice for to-be-weds
– Choose a good photographer and a make-up artist you are comfortable with and whose capabilities you trust
– When looking at wear options, think of the comfort factor too.
– Don’t stress about the minute details, don’t let any irritant dampen your spirit and ensure you enjoy your own wedding!
Makeup Artist- Shaan Muttathil
Photos courtesy- Priyanshu Asthana
