Feny Gadhia and Siddharth Singh, The Royal Retreat Resort & Spa, Udaipur
This couple gave their sangeet celebration a meaningful twist with a playlist featuring songs that were pivotal in their love story.
Vibrant and brimming with moments of joy, Feny Gadhia and Siddharth Singh turned into life partners surrounded by their loved ones. Capturing the beauty of the couple’s friendship and love in an unfiltered way was WeddingSutra Favorite – Hiraaya by Aayushi.
How They Met
Feny recalls, “We have been friends for almost 14 years; however, it was always platonic. We have seen each other through all phases of life, be it high school madness or messy breakups.
After Siddharth moved to the US for his education, he would call me to catch up and would get impatient if I was unable to answer his calls. A year later, he was back in India for a visit and as fate would have it, both of us were single! It was during this time, that romance took its roots between us. We were inseparable then, in India and even as he returned to the States, we kept constantly in touch over video calls.”
The Proposal
“We had the most beautiful proposal in Masai Mara. Sidd knew that I love wildlife and he suggested we take a trip to Masai Mara which was on my bucket list forever! He tricked me into believing that we were making an outfit reel at every new spot we visited on this trip. And, just like that at this one beautiful spot in the jungle he went down on this knee and asked me to marry him!”, shares Feny.
Wedding Planning
Spanning two days in the month of December, the union was envisioned to be simple and warm. Feny adds, “We spent an entire year planning the wedding down to the very last detail. I think my favourite part of the wedding planning process is the fact that I got to spend the most amount of time with family as we would make frequent trips for shopping which inevitably led to meals at different restaurants where we’d explore different cuisines!”
Couple’s Experience with Hiraaya by Aayushi
Photographing the couple as took the plunge was Hiraaya by Aayushi who put the couple at ease as they faced the lens. Feny adds, “They were the best photography team we could ask for! I met Aayushi who leads Hiraaya by Aayushi for the first time 3 years ago at my best friend’s wedding and I knew then that whenever I do get married, I would want them to photograph it. The team is highly professional, be it showing up on time at all the events or persistently waiting for us to get ready. They go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable which surely reflects in the pictures and videos. Their quest to perfect every frame and capture the smallest details is what truly sets them apart. If you want beautiful memories to reflect on after your wedding day, there isn’t anyone I would recommend more than Hiraaya by Aayushi!”
Wedding Functions
Mehndi
“The celebrations started with an intimate mehendi function and we also hosted our closest friends and family while henna was being applied to my hands. We interacted with all our guests while they enjoyed a traditional ‘Sajjan Goth’ dinner on the terrace. The next day, we hosted the big mehndi and welcome lunch event where a larger circle of guests were invited. We had floral day beds for guests to lounge on as mehndi was applied. There was a caricature artist, a popcorn cart and bangle-making stalls to keep the guests entertained. We also had a tree painting activity wherein all the guests stamped leaves to a tree illustration which we now cherish as a souvenir”, Feny shared.
Sangeet
The following evening witnessed a glamorous sangeet which was lit up by fairylights and chandeliers. Feny shares, “There was a circular bar in the middle of the lawn where personalised cocktails were served. All songs at our sangeet were chosen based on a cherished memory shared by Sidd and me. This way, we didn’t perform on just any song that has been trending. I think this was the most fun event and Sidd had everyone in awe with his dance moves.”
Haldi
“For the haldi, it had to be sunflowers everywhere, till your eyes can reach! There was a huge tree at the venue and we used that as our backdrop for the bride and groom seating. There were rattan baskets with sunflowers filled in them suspended from the tree which made for most stunning pictures. Even the furniture was all rattan and the chairs had beautiful sunflower detailing on them. Given the venue was by the pool, everyone had a gala time taking a dip in it after haldi was done”, shared Feny.
Wedding
“The theme was all things beige, green and white. We wanted the colours to be neutral so that our outfits would stand out. The decor had a touch of tradition with diyas and mogras. Long chrome tables hosted the family dinner and a flower cone and bell station ensured plenty of fun moments during the pheras. Our mandap was square-shaped and adorned with white flowers along with crystal bird hangings. Three instrumental artists instead added to the auspiciousness of the pheras while ensuring everyone stayed focused on the rituals. We also hosted a meet and greet at the same event after the pheras”, Feny says.
Reception
“We chose a minimalistic stage that matched the color palette of the wedding. A storybook-like installation with our wedding hashtag made for the perfect photo-op spot. The entryway was further enhanced by flowy white curtains and glimmering chandeliers”, recollects Feny.
Advice For Couples
The couple shares:
– Focus on what truly matters to both of you. It’s easy to get caught up in pleasing everyone, but your wedding should reflect your personality and love story. Decide early on what aspects are most important, and invest your time and budget in them.
– Not everything will go as planned and that’s okay. Be open to last-minute changes and focus on enjoying the moment rather than stressing over small things. In between all the chaos, set aside quiet moments for just the two of you. Whether it’s a quick conversation or a few minutes together before and after all the events, these moments will make the day even more special.
The Wedding Makers
Venue: The Royal Retreat Resort & Spa, Udaipur
Wedding Planner: WDNE
Photography: Hiraaya by Aayushi
Décor: Do It Up
Makeup: Makeup by Aanchal
Mehndi: Ishaa Lakhani
Choreography: Shreya Savla Choreography
Bartenders: Bartender Brothers
