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Inside an Enchanting South Asian Shaadi in Los Cabos

When Shivani and Nilan dreamed of their wedding, they envisioned a vibrant celebration full of color, joy, and tradition set against the stunning backdrop of Los Cabos—and their Shaadi weekend exceeded every expectation. Spanning four unforgettable days filled with music, dance, and endless fun, their wedding beautifully combined cultural traditions with the breathtaking beauty of a seaside paradise. From the stunning outfit changes to the meticulously planned floral arrangements, every detail was a feast for the senses, perfectly complemented by the picturesque setting. With Junebug vendor Take It Photo capturing every moment, this celebration is truly one for the books.

Pithi-Haldi Ceremony

The Shaadi festivities began with the Pithi-Haldi ceremony, a vibrant and heartfelt pre-wedding tradition where loved ones apply turmeric paste to the couple, symbolizing blessings for glowing health and prosperity. Shivani and Nilan’s Pithi ceremony was an explosion of color, joy, and laughter, as seen in the playful throwing of petals and the exuberant atmosphere.

The decor featured cascading garlands of bright marigold blooms suspended over the seating area.The backdrop of blush, tangerine, and rose-hued blooms created a romantic contrast against the earthy tones of the venue.

For this special ceremony, Shivani wore a stunning ensemble featuring a blouse with intricate floral embroidery and a flowy ivory lehenga with nature-inspired motifs, paired with a sheer dupatta adorned with star-like embellishments. Her braid, decorated with delicate flowers, added an ethereal touch to her look. Nilan complemented her perfectly in a light sage-green kurta and crisp white trousers, creating a sophisticated yet laid-back vibe for the event.

From Shivani, “Our Haldi ceremony was a blend of tradition and symbolism. It’s a ritual that is as meaningful as it is colorful, aimed at protecting and blessing the bride and groom. Yet, it was our family’s involvement that really made the day stand out. Their laughter and stories transformed a traditional ceremony into a personal and unforgettable event.”

Sangeet Night

The Sangeet is a cherished pre-wedding event in Indian culture, traditionally known as “Music Night” or a “Musical Party.” It’s a celebration that brings together the couple’s families and friends in a joyous atmosphere filled with music, dance, and laughter. The evening often includes choreographed dance performances by loved ones, showcasing Bollywood-inspired routines, setting the stage for a fun, celebratory Shaadi weekend.

Tropical decor featuring vibrant floral arrangements of red ginger, bird-of-paradise blooms, and lush greenery on modern gold stands. The reception tables were adorned with playful pink and orange napkins, adding pops of color against the neutral tablecloths. The backdrop of the dance floor featured a neon sign that read ‘It Was Always You,’ framed by a lush jungle of foliage and bright florals. Photos of family love stories were displayed on a memory wall, honoring the legacies that brought Shivani and Nilan to this day.

The couple’s grand entrance set the tone for an unforgettable night,. Shivani and Nilan wowed in custom, coordinated outfits for their Sangeet ceremony. Shivani wore a midnight blue organza lehenga with velvet applique embroidered flowers on a corset top and a flared skirt. The shimmering accents  caught the light with every move. Nilan wore an intricate beaded custom sherwani with a pin tuck kurta pyjama and custom embroidered shoes. 

Beyond the entertainment, the Sangeet symbolizes the blending of two families, breaking down barriers and fostering connections in a festive setting. Often, henna artistry adds to the celebration, allowing guests to experience the culturally rich tradition of Mehndi as a symbolic gesture of joy and beauty.

Sataak Ritual

The Sataak, an intimate but essential ritual in Hindu weddings, added a deep layer of cultural significance to the celebrations. As Shivani and Nilan performed traditional prayers and rites, their love and commitment shone through. The serene energy of this sacred event balanced the liveliness of the surrounding Shaadi festivities.

The breathtaking mandap was adorned with cascading arches of peach, blush, and cream florals, framed perfectly against the stunning Los Cabos ocean backdrop. The blooms added a soft, romantic touch to the lively atmosphere.

Intricately embroidered maroon dupattas rested on guest chairs as offerings of tradition and respect. The ceremonial items, including a picture of Saibaba, a delicate Om symbol created with rice, and gold statuettes, added spiritual significance to the setup.

Shivani looked stunning in a floral-embroidered mint green and ivory lehenga with intricate embellishments and a flowing dupatta. Nilan complemented her in a pastel blush sherwani with subtle geometric textures, completing a soft yet regal look.

The couple’s families joined them under the floral mandap, draped in hues of blush, red, and sage green, symbolizing unity. Each ritual was carried out with joy, laughter, and reverence as Shivani and Nilan performed the sacred rites.

Mehendi Pool Party

The pool party and mehndi event felt like stepping into a summer dream, , kicking off the Shaadi celebrations with style. The crisp blue and white decor set the perfect tone for the beachy yet chic vibes of Los Cabos, with personalized signs and giant “N & S” letters reflecting in the pool like a scene out of a movie.

The bride’s outfit stole the show—her vibrant pink ensemble, adorned with tassels and mirror work, added the right pop of fun and glam. Paired with bold earrings and chic sunglasses, she radiated joy, while Nilan kept it effortlessly cool with his laid-back yet polished vacation look.

Guests lounged under umbrellas, and laughter echoed as the mehndi artists adorned hands with intricate, tropical-inspired designs. There was no shortage of energy as friends and family embraced the warm sun and festive atmosphere.

The Wedding Ceremony

Shivani was absolutely stunning in her deep red lehenga adorned with intricate embroidery and embellishments, paired with a rich dupatta that added an extra layer of elegance. Her statement jewelry—a dazzling choker and matching earrings—brought a regal touch to her overall look. Nilan looked equally dashing in a cream sherwani with detailed embroidery that exuded timeless sophistication. His coordinating safa and string of pearls added the perfect finishing touches.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the ocean, Shivani and Nilan’s wedding ceremony was nothing short of magical. The mandap was truly a sight to behold—soft drapery, l cascading roses in shades of blush and ivory, and woven hanging baskets that added a natural, boho touch. 

The aisle was adorned with flowers, guiding everyone to the stunning mandap. A standout feature was the intricate arch woven with roses, hydrangeas, and hanging wicker accents that gave the space a warm, bohemian touch.

Surrounded by family, the ceremony reflected rich traditions and heartfelt moments. From the symbolic washing of the groom’s feet by his parents to the exchanging of floral garlands, every detail of this part of their Shaadi weekend was steeped in meaning and love. As they sat beneath the ornate mandap, surrounded by floral drapery and lantern accents, the couple’s glowing smiles were a reflection of their commitment and connection.

A Glamorous Reception

The reception was an unforgettable celebration filled with glamour, joy, and vibrant energy. The entire room was transformed into a bold and romantic scene drenched in rich shades of red. Towering floral centerpieces of crimson roses created a  dramatic effect, while mirrored accents and sleek gold table details added a contemporary touch of elegance.

The velvet lounge seating on stage, surrounded by a breathtaking floral installation, felt like something straight out of a grand theater. Above it all, chandeliers glistened from the crimson-draped ceiling, casting a warm, sophisticated glow. 

Shivani and Nilan made their grand entrance hand-in-hand, radiating happiness. Shivani’s reception look was pure magic—she wore a glittering ivory and silver lehenga that shimmered with every step. Nilan was equally polished in a classic black tuxedo, giving major old-Hollywood charm.

The dance floor came alive as friends and family performed choreographed routines that had everyone cheering. The atmosphere was electric, with music, laughter, and dancing that lasted late into the night. The couple’s joy was absolutely infectious as they celebrated surrounded by their loved ones under a sky of chandeliers and cascading red roses—a night of memories that felt as timeless as it was spectacular.

Shivani and Nilan’s Los Cabos Shaadi was the perfect blend of tradition and modern flair. Their love story shone brightly through every thoughtfully planned event, and their wedding weekend served as a joyful reminder of the beauty of cultural celebration and community. For anyone planning their dream Shaadi, this breathtaking celebration is proof that with the right team, your love story can be turned into a masterpiece.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Take It Photo
Event Planning – Eunice Bravo Weddings
Venue – Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos
Floral Design – Casa Selva
Decor – Zuñiga Deco Cancun
DJ – DJ Sunny P Events
Content Creator – Via Sim
Videography – Ruiz Films
Makeup + Hair Styling – Drea V
Wedding Dress – Ricco India + Marwar Couture + Frontier Heritage
Travel – Indian Destination Weddings
Henna – Lemons and Mehndi

 

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This Romantic Garden Wedding Features Nearly 100 Floral Arrangements Sourced and Crafted By The Bride’s Mom

Bella and Sam’s romantic garden wedding was a floral masterpiece brought to life with love, creativity, and family. Hosted at the picturesque Hotel du Village, their celebration was a dreamy blend of vibrant blooms, personal touches, and an intimate connection to nature.

Sam and Bella, who both work in biotech sales, first met as college students at Syracuse University. Serendipitously placed in neighboring dorm rooms, they quickly became friends and officially started dating after a sorority date night set-up. Their wedding day honored their decade-long journey with heartfelt details inspired by their love of nature, family traditions, and a shared Celtic heritage.

The couple’s vision was to bring the outdoors in, creating a romantic yet formal setting infused with countryside charm. They fell in love with the first and only venue they toured, drawn to its incredible outdoor space. With their wedding held on a picturesque fall day, the setting perfectly framed their dream celebration.

The breathtaking florals—nearly 100 unique arrangements—were lovingly crafted by Bella and her mother. A lifelong gardener and creative soul, Bella’s mom took on the floral design with passion, sourcing stems from local farms and antique vases from nearby shops. The family’s barn served as a floral workshop in the days leading up to the wedding, with friends and family coming together to arrange stunning centerpieces and bouquets. Bella and Sam cherished the memory of picking fresh blooms for the bride’s bouquet.

The floral design extended to the tablescapes, which featured an array of fruits and vegetables—dripping grapes, luscious figs, pomegranates, honeynut squash, and pears—adding texture and a touch of Dutch master still-life artistry. The rich hues of the seasonal produce harmonized with the florals, creating a feast for the eyes. The wedding cake echoed this theme, decorated with cascading fruit.

The bridesmaids wore mixed and matched dresses in shades of olive green, gold, and brown, with textures like sequins, silk, and ruffles that complemented the fall landscape and added elegance to the nature-inspired palette.

Bella wore a stunning Martina Liana gown that felt like it was made for the day’s ethereal vibe. The romantic ruffles and 3D floral details gave it just the right amount of drama, while the soft ivory with subtle rose and beige undertones kept it delicate and organic.

Before their romantic garden wedding ceremony, Bella and Sam shared a private vow exchange after their first look—a cherished moment where they could reflect on their decade-long journey together.

The wedding was a true family affair. Bella’s younger sister officiated the ceremony, while Sam’s sisters performed heartfelt readings

As the sun set, the celebration seamlessly transitioned to a lively reception illuminated by golden candlelight and filled with laughter, music, and dancing.

The reception decor combined a vintage, romantic ambiance with lush floral arrangements and intricate details. Tables featured cascading centerpieces with a mix of dried and fresh blooms, creating a luxurious garden-inspired feel. The florals were displayed in antique-style vessels, adding to the vintage aesthetic.  The combination of florals, fruits, and warm candlelight captured the essence of rustic sophistication, blending old-world charm with modern romance.

Design details were carefully woven throughout the day, thanks to Bella’s sister, who created the invitation suite, menus, and signage A highlight of the decor was the hand-painted canvas seating display, depicting a landscape of Scottish highland cows. Vintage frames hung from the display, guiding guests to their tables. Table numbers featured framed woodland landscape prints, connecting the seating display, the guest gifts of printed matchboxes and bottle openers, and the overall theme.

Taper candles in deep jewel tones, paired with gold candlesticks and glass votives, contributed warmth and elegance to the setting. The tables were dressed with white linens, complemented by dark napkins and gold-rimmed chargers, creating a striking contrast. Individual place settings included beautifully designed menus, adding a personalized touch to each guest’s experience.

Related: Everything You Should Know About Your Wedding Cake

Later in the evening, Bella changed into a shorter party dress, ready to dance the night away. 

The celebration didn’t end with the final dance. Guests continued the festivities with late-night bites at the bar before moving to the outdoor fire pits. S’mores, cocktails, and crisp fall air made for a cozy, unforgettable after-party that lasted into the early morning.

Bella and Sam’s romantic garden wedding shows us that weaving personal and family contributions into your big day can make the day even more memorable. Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to loved ones with specific talents—they’ll cherish being part of the process, and it adds a unique, heartfelt touch to your celebration. Whether it’s flowers, design, or other elements, involving family can make your day feel like a true labor of love.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Anna Panutsa Portraits
Venue – Hotel dy Village
Floral Design – Kellie Hoeke
Design – Hoek Baby
Content Creator – Maid of Content
DJ – Elegant Music Group
Makeup + Hair Styling – Meraki Beauty Bridal
Wedding Dress – Martina Liana + La Belle Marie
Bridal Accessories – Anthropologie
Groom’s Apparel – Ventresca
Rings – Barsky Diamonds + Diana Michaels

 

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The Ultimate Guide to Putting Together Your Wedding Playlist

January 15, 2025 | justine

Keep reading for the ultimate guide to creating a wedding playlist that captures your vibe. Image by Martin Wilk.

When you think back on the weddings you’ve been to, chances are the music stands out as a key part of the experience. Maybe it was that one song that got everyone rushing to the dance floor, or the sweet melody that brought tears during the ceremony. Music has a magical way of creating moments that stick with you long after the day is over. From the background tunes that set the mood to the show-stopping anthems that keep the party alive, your wedding playlist is the heartbeat of your celebration.

The beauty of a wedding playlist is how personal it can be—tailored to your taste and reflective of your story as a couple. But putting it together can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll walk you through creating a wedding playlist that perfectly captures your vibe, keeps your guests entertained, and makes every moment of your big day unforgettable.

The Ultimate Guide to Putting Together Your Wedding Playlist

1. Identify Your Wedding Vibe

Before you dive into song selection, take a moment to think about the overall vibe you want for your wedding. Are you dreaming of a romantic and elegant affair, a fun and upbeat celebration, or perhaps something quirky and unconventional? Your music choices should reflect the mood you’re aiming to create.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

  • What’s our wedding theme? (Rustic, modern, vintage, etc.)
  • Do we want mostly classic hits, modern chart-toppers, or a mix of both?
  • Are there specific genres or artists we love?

For example, a vintage-inspired wedding might lean toward jazz classics and retro hits, while a beach wedding might feature tropical tunes and laid-back acoustic melodies.

2. Break It Down by Wedding Moments

Your wedding day has distinct sections, each with its own mood and energy level. Creating playlists for each part of the day ensures the music flows seamlessly from one moment to the next.

Ceremony

This is the most sentimental part of the day. Choose songs that hold special meaning for you and your partner. You’ll need selections for:

Cocktail Hour

This is a time for mingling and lighthearted conversation. Opt for soft, upbeat background music—think acoustic covers, jazz, or mellow pop hits.

Dinner

During the meal, keep the music relaxed but engaging. Instrumentals or soulful ballads are great for maintaining a comfortable ambiance.

Reception

This is where the party kicks off! Include:

Image by Catalina Jean

3. Mix Personal Favorites with Crowd Pleasers

Your wedding playlist should feel personal to you, but it’s also important to keep your guests in mind. A mix of your favorite songs and universally loved tracks will ensure everyone has a good time.

Tips for Achieving Balance:

  • Include a range of genres and decades to appeal to guests of all ages.
  • Add a few nostalgic hits to bring people to the dance floor.
  • Steer clear of songs with overly explicit lyrics, unless you’re sure your crowd won’t mind.

4. Organize Your Dance Floor Hits

The dance floor is where the magic happens! To keep the energy up, organize your dance songs in a way that builds momentum.

Pro Tips:

  • Start with familiar hits to get people moving.
  • Alternate between fast and slow songs to give guests a breather.
  • Save your absolute favorites for peak moments, like just after the cake cutting or toward the end of the night.

5. Don’t Forget the Do-Not-Play List

Just as important as what you want to hear is what you don’t want to hear. Whether it’s overplayed wedding staples or songs that bring back bad memories, a do-not-play list will help your DJ or band avoid any awkward moments.

6. Decide Between Live Music and a DJ

Both live bands and DJs have their pros and cons, and your choice will depend on your budget, venue, and preferences.

Live Band:

  • Pros: High energy, unique performance, customizable to your taste.
  • Cons: More expensive, limited repertoire.

DJ:

  • Pros: Wide song selection, easier to adapt to requests, usually more budget-friendly.
  • Cons: May lack the wow factor of a live band.

7. Use Technology to Your Advantage to Make Your Wedding Playlist

If you’re creating a DIY playlist, streaming platforms like Spotify or Apple Music can make the process easy and fun. Many offer pre-made wedding playlists that you can use for inspiration or tweak to fit your style.

Pro Tips:

  • Use crossfade settings to avoid awkward silences between songs.
  • Download the playlist offline to avoid connectivity issues on the big day.

Image by Martin Wilk

8. Get Input from Your DJ, Band, or Friends

Your DJ or bandleader will have experience with weddings and can offer valuable suggestions on song choices and timing. Don’t be afraid to ask for their input!

Additionally, consider asking close friends or family members for song recommendations. They might suggest a hidden gem you hadn’t thought of.

Junebug Tip: Including a song request section on RSVPs has become a popular trend—and for good reason. It’s a simple way to involve your guests in your wedding day while adding a personal touch to the celebration. 

9. Test Your Wedding Playlist

Before the big day, listen to your playlist from start to finish. Does it flow well? Are there any jarring transitions? Testing it in advance ensures everything feels cohesive.

10. Relax and Enjoy the Music

At the end of the day, your wedding playlist should reflect your personality and love story. Once the music starts playing, all that’s left to do is soak in the moment and enjoy every beat of your special day.

Putting together your wedding playlist might take a bit of effort, but it’s one of the most fun parts of wedding planning. Think of it as a soundtrack for one of the biggest days of your life, filled with songs that tell your story, celebrate your love, and get your guests moving. So take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t stress—once the music starts, you’ll be surrounded by love, laughter, and a packed dance floor.

Image by Manuel Aldana

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