Western & Hindu Wedding - Family Ranch Cochrane - Alberta Wedding Photography | 35mm Film + Digital
- Stef K
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
David & Shivani
35mm Film + Digital
Family Ranch, Cochrane
Alberta Wedding Photography
--------------
Talk about making most of your wedding day, David & Shivani had TWO full ceremonies, yes you read that right TWO! It is such an honor to be trusted with capturing these beautiful cultural moments, all in the stunning backyard of the province we call home.
The day started with a traditional western ceremony, a beautiful bride in white, and her husband to be in red, all set in the gorgeous foothills of Cochrane, Alberta.
If a western ceremony represents simple elegance, a Hindu ceremony surely exhibits intricate radiance, the colors, traditions, and ceremonies all have deep meaning and significance. Experiencing these moments is something we wont soon forget!
Shivani's beautiful Mehendi (henna) adorned her hands, escorted by her brother in their simple yet effective Dolhi (adorned carriage aka the UTV) for Kanya Aagaman (the arrival of the bride) to the Mandap (altar). Meanwhile Dave's western style Baarat (joyous arrive of the groom) was a sight to behold, dressed in a traditional sherwani, riding in atop a steed with his cowboy hat, the Vivaah Homa (sacred fire ceremony) was set to begin.
The Jaimala (exchanging of floral garlands) marked the official beginning of the ceremony, shortly after, the Havan Kund (sacred fire) was lit and the Vivaah Homa had begun. Agni Pradakshina (the circumambulation, yes that's a word, of the fire) involving Saptapadi (the couple takes seven steps atogether, each representing separate vows) was beautiful to behold, this sacred ritual sealed the marriage, making the union legally and spiritually binding in Hindu tradition.
Following the vibrant matrimony was the stunning reception. Endearing speeches, delicious Indian cuisine, and an elegant cake cutting kicked off the evening. Highlighted by a delicate butterfly release ceremony and finally dancing the night away, this wedding was FULL of new experiences of which we will carry with us for a lifetime.
