They found me by accident. She asked if I had ever shot a Hindu wedding ceremony , I had not, but I really want to. I love the sacred in all aspects and I knew nothing about Hindu ceremonies except this, they take it very seriously and each thing means something very important. They live in SF, he is the founder of a really cool company www.indiegogo.com (Ryon used it to fund one of his short films). Their family would be coming from all over the Planet, NY, Ohio, Colorado, Paris, India, Washington DC, Palo Alto etc. This was a very important affair, they couldn’t come meet me, I was being vetted. So, I said what I always say when some one has to make a choice about me over the phone. Go read my blog, obviously you like the images, we are talking, but if you want to know who you will be spending the day with, read my blog, read a few pieces at least, then you will know. She did read the blog and called me back and here we were a couple of weeks ago.
It was one of the most beautiful things I had ever seen. An entire global family here for them, multi generational, to help join them and support them in their marriage. Incredibly stunning in every way, I love it and them. What amazing beautiful people.
This is taken from Meera and Eric’s ceremony guide.
The Hindu wedding ceremony is performed in Sanskrit in accordance to Vedic traditions that have been practiced for centuries. Each step in the ceremony embodies a promise between the future husband and wife for the multiple aspects of a relationship that are necessary for an eternally happy union. This ceremony also celebrates the joining of the families in a nurturing, loving future.
Baraat/Milini (Welcoming the groom) Surrounded by festive music and dance, Eric arrives with his family and friends in a procession. The mother of the bride welcomes Eric with an aarti, or prayer, and the rest of the Schell family members are welcomed.
Ganesh Puja (Invocation of God)
Prior to coming outside, the priest begins the ceremony with an invocation to Lord Ganesh, the remover of all obstacles. This puja is carried out in all Hindu ceremonies and is performed to bring peace and purity to the wedding ceremony.
Jaimala (Exchange of garlands) Accompanied by her sister and friends, Meera is escorted to the mandap. Meera and Eric exchange jaimalas (garlands), indicating their choice of each other as life partners.
Punyaahavaachanam (Prayer to Lord Varuna)
The priest recites a prayer to Lord Varuna to purify the water and sanctify the ceremonial area.
Raksha Bandhan(Tying of the sacred thread)
Raksha means security, and Bandhan means a promise or vow. At this time, a thread covered in turmeric is tied around the wrist of the bride and groom as a symbol of protection from all evils.
Kanya-daana (Giving away the bride)
Sesha and Rajini offer Meera’s hand in marriage to Eric. This is done by placing rice, water and flowers into her right hand which is then placed into Eric’s right hand.
The havan or the fire offering is the signature of the Hindu marriage ceremony. The fire signifies the presence of Lord Vishnu and the illumination of mind, knowledge and happiness. Agni (fire) is considered to be the principal and eternal witness of the wedding.
Maangalya Dharanam/Thalikettu (Wearing of the sacred necklace)
The priest traces three generations of the groom and bride to receive their ancestors’ blessings and as a way to introduce the two families. Maangalya means an auspicious or sacred chain. The Maangalyam is worshiped first and then shown to the audience to get their blessings. The groom places the chain around the bride’s neck signifying that their lives are eternally tied together. The groom’s sister assists in tying the necklace as a symbol of the families joining.
Gathi Bandhan (Tying the knot)
The Groom’s patta (scarf) is tied to the Bride’s chunni (scarf), symbolizing a bond between the two hearts and minds.
Mangal Pheras (Circling the Sacred Fire)
Meera and Eric circle around the sacred fire four times. Each circle represents an aspect of life found in Vedic philosophy:
1. Dharma—Religion and ethics
2. Artha—Material possessions
3. Kama—Desires to enjoy life
4. Moksha—Ultimate goal to reach God and goodness in life
Saptapadi (The Seven Steps)
The couple takes seven steps together as a married couple; with each step, they take one vow:
1. To respect and honor each other.
2. To commit care for and be patient with each other.
3. To be honest and faithful to each other.
4. To stay together in happiness and sorrow
5. To acquire knowledge, happiness and harmony by mutual love and trust.
6. To become true companions and remain life-long partners.
7. To cultivate a strong, happy and healthy family.
Laja Homa
The groom and the bride offer puffed rice to the fire a symbolism of the joining of the families.
Sindoor Daan (Red Powder)/Ring Exchange
Eric places sindoor in the parting of Meera’s hair, indicating her status as his wife. After this, the couple exchanges rings.
Mithai Khilana (Sweet Offering)
Meera and Eric exchange sweets as a symbol of their life together always being sweet.
Aashirvaad (Blessings)
Eric and Meera seek blessings from the priest, their parents, and elder relatives. Family and friends then shower the newlyweds with rice as a blessing for a happy and prosperous married life.
Venue Cory’s Country Inn Chico Stunning, perfect, spotless, 5 star Inn.
Wedding Design and Decor and Flowers Salvagno’s I love this women’s work. Her web-site doesn’t touch what she can do. Exceptional!!!!!
Cupcakes Marcie
Bridal Henna, Hair and Make-up by Minal Not only was she beautiful and kind, but a serious talent. Gorgeous work!!!!!
BJ’s Bartender
