Mahika and Gautam, Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort, Goa

Set against the lush backdrop of Goa, Mahika and Gautam’s wedding was a vibrant odyssey of color, tradition, and youthful exuberance. With WeddingSutra Favorite – Seventy by Two behind the lens, every smile, dance step, and intricate detail was artfully preserved, weaving a visual love story that will enchant you! Watch it unfold.

How they met
Mahika and Gautam’s journey of love began in 2012 when they first met as classmates and grew closer as friends over the years. They stayed in touch and took annual trips with their group of friends, always present in each other’s lives.
Mahika shares, “Over time, I started developing a little crush on Gautam. I found myself visiting him almost twice a year, always hoping to witness that spark, to see if there was more to our bond than friendship. And while I kept it to myself, those visits always felt like they were leading to something bigger. Our connection was a constant thread, woven through texts, emails, long drives, and even dreamy flights back together to India. Finally, in September 2020, we both acknowledged those feelings and started dating.
Gautam shares, “One of my earliest impressions of Mahika is etched in my mind. She arrived late to a chemistry lab, a whirlwind of energy—dressed casually, carrying an overflowing bag, and wearing the most disarming, radiant smile. It was a fleeting thought, almost a whisper, but at that moment, I had the distinct feeling that I would marry this girl one day. That feeling, though quiet, resurfaced many times over the years.”

The Proposal
“Our proposals reflected the excitement and creativity we share as a couple. Gautam proposed first, going down on one knee under the shimmering lights of the Eiffel Tower in Paris on November 23, 2023. A few months later, Mahika added her own touch of magic with a surprise proposal aboard a yacht on Lake Tahoe on July 27, 2024, surrounded by their closest friends. Both moments were filled with love, laughter, and a shared anticipation for the future.”

Wedding Planning
Deciding between a mountain or beach venue was no easy task, but the couple ultimately chose Goa because it matched their vibrant energy. Goa was perfect in terms of planning and logistics, and it the venue carried a certain magic—a lively, dynamic vibe that deeply resonated with them. The team at Seventy by Two beautifully captured every moment of their celebrations.
Reflecting on their experience, they share “We’ve known Hardik and Rima for years, having witnessed their incredible work at our friends’ weddings. Choosing them was a no-brainer. They captured the most beautiful moments and emotions—many of which we didn’t even realize were happening. Every photo tells a story, full of emotion and genuine connection. The best part? They shared the photos really quickly, and each one was breathtaking. We’re still reliving our wedding through their stunning captures.

Unique Moments: The Goa wedding was filled with personalized moments that made it truly special. Custom T-Shirts: To bring in comfort, energy, and style, the couple designed custom T-shirts for their guests with “Dulha Gang” and “Dulhan Gang” printed on them, complete with fun phrases.

Dual Baraats: Both the groom and the bride had their own vibrant baraats! Gautam shares “With a large circle of friends and many mutual acquaintances, Mahika’s enthusiastic nature meant she simply had to have her grand entrance too. We led our processions in vintage cars, facing each other from a distance. To keep her wedding dress a surprise, Mahika even wore a playful coverall, adding a delightful twist to the occasion.”

Photo-Booth Blessings: A special phone-photo booth was set up where guests could record their blessings and best wishes, creating a keepsake of heartfelt memories for the couple.

Custom Mandap: The couple found inspiration for their mandap design from Pinterest and worked with the decor team to bring it to life. They built it from scratch to match the color themes of the couple’s outfits and bring out the grandeur of the venue.

Wedding Functions
Mehndi
The Mehndi carnival was a vibrant garden soiree, filled with flowers, flamingos, starfish, and clamshell decorations. Soft enamel accents and candy‑floss hues set a playful vibe. Through clouds of colorful smoke, the bride and groom in lilac ensembles made their chic entrance. It was a fun, youthful celebration painted in shades of pink.

Sangeet
In shades of red and gold, the Sangeet shimmered with traditional elegance as crystal chandeliers hovered above plush seating and flowing silk drapes. A majestic stage, aglow with flickering candles and royal motifs, sets the perfect backdrop. The couple and their loved ones took to the floor, dazzling everyone with their spirited dance performances. It was a night of regal charm and joyous celebration that kept the energy alive until dawn.

Wedding
On the lush lawn framed by swaying palm trees, pastel drapes, and blooms wove a dreamy oasis for the Wedding ceremony. A charming welcome note and bespoke photo‑op beckoned guests into the couple’s love story. The purple‑and‑pink floral aisle led to striking peacock structures and a temple‑inspired mandap awash in blossoms. The bride looked angelic in her lilac lehenga, while the groom stood regal in gold, radiating pure romance.

Reception
Under a shimmering canopy of lights, the black‑and‑gold Reception dazzled with gilded structures, flickering candles, and lush floral accents. Dressed in white and black couture, the newlyweds arrived to great applause and love from their friends and family. A Vogue‑inspired photo corner beckoned guests to strike their most glamorous poses while the champagne tower promised an evening of glamor and enjoyment.

Advice for couples
“Forget all the stress a day before and live every moment of the wedding to the fullest because it goes by so quickly. Smile through it all. Don’t shy away from taking lots of photos—they will become the memories you carry with you for the rest of your life.”

The Wedding Makers
Venue: Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort
Wedding Planner: Royal Gala Events
Photography and Videography: SeventybyTwo
Groom Outfits: Pawan & Pranav Haute Couture
Bride Outfits: Papa Dont Preach by Shubhika (Mehndi), Fjolla Haxhismajli (Reception)
Jewellery: 7coloreyes.in (Mehndi)
Makeup: Urmi Kaur Wachher
Hair: Pratiksha NP
Henna: Hansa Gajra
DJ: DJ Taher, DJ Manish Khatri
Entertainment: Sandhu

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