A delicious slice of Mumbai society will be in Abu Dhabi this weekend. Nadine Dhody, the lovely daughter of Rita and Raja Dhody is marrying textile tycoon Niraj Jiwrajka of Alok Industries. The couple who met and fell in love in London are tying the knot at Ritz Carlton, Abu Dhabi and over 350 guests from Mumbai, UK and other parts of the world will be flying in for the three-day celebrations that commence on February 1st. The Jiwrajkas who hosted their daughter Prita’s wow wedding in Mauritius in 2010 were looking for an international destination that would be accessible for hundreds of guests from Mumbai. Abu Dhabi scored on two counts, its connectivity, and its wow property Ritz Carlton that has now rolled out the red carpet for big Indian weddings. Friends and relatives of the Dhodys and Jiwrajkas who have attended some of the most fashionable weddings in Bali, Mauritius, Turkey and Dubai are looking forward to the celebration at Abu Dhabi’s most magnificent property, which is now turning out to be a hot spot for ultra HNI’s (High Networth Individuals) from India.

The beachfront Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi situated next to the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

An article on recent society weddings will be incomplete without a mention of the lavish Singh-Kathawala wedding which took place in Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur. Karan, the son of Jasjit Singh, MD, Associated Capsules got married to Educationist Naamah Kathawala. When the groom’s mother Kavita Singh is a design maven and top art collector the guests who included top brass industrialists and bollywood superstars knew that this would be one wedding where the decor would be nothing less than splendid and spectacular. Kavita Singh (who also happens to be actor Anil Kapoor’s sister-in-law) handed over the decor duties to Mumbai’s ace event stylist Dhun Cordo who put together the look for all the events. The highlight of the celebration was the Sangeet where Gipsy Kings from South of France flew in to perform.

The magnificent Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur one of the world’s largest private residences is a golden hued desert sandstone monument set amidst acres of verdant gardens.

While the Dhody-Jiwrajka, Singh-Kathawal families opted for a Destination Wedding, Bollywood stars Hema Malini and Dharmendra are hosting a home town wedding for their younger daughter Ahana who is marrying Delhi businessman Vaibhav Vora. Initially the Deols and Voras were considering venues like Amby Valley, Lonavla and The Lalit, Goa but they finally picked ITC Maratha Sheraton in Andheri (East) for the two day celebrations which commence on Saturday, 1st February.

ITC Maratha, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Andheri (East), Mumbai

Oh, and there’s a beautiful young couple from Mumbai, she is a talented fashion designer and he is a business magnate and their grand destination wedding is at Fairmont, Jaipur in a fortnight from now. Watch this space for our interview and exclusive pre-wedding shoot with them at Taj Land’s End to be featured here next week!

While many Indian families have been hosting grand weddings in glitzy venues in Dubai, in the last one or two years more families have evinced interest in Abu Dhabi and Oman. We spoke to some of the most prominent Destination Wedding Planners to learn more.

   Jai Raj Gupta
   Shaadionline, Delhi
“In the last decade, the most sought-after destinations have been Thailand, Bali and Malaysia. And now many of our clients are interested in exploring the Middle East. Muscat in Oman is an unexplored jewel in the crown and offers quaintness no longer associated with Dubai. It has a warm, welcoming culture and amazing sea facing properties attractive for wedding clients. And the icing on the cake is its proximity- three hour journey from India! Today, families feel there is more value and ‘exoticness’ in taking a select group of friends, families and well-wishers to a new destination. I think the big social change is that at all levels there is a ‘nuclearisation’ of families which is now manifested and reflected in guest lists which are smaller in number. International destinations are no longer taboo from a religious perspective and earlier thoughts that the bride should depart from her own home is giving way to practical considerations of time and space. Select communities can never compromise when it comes to food and a sanitised kitchen may be a must-have for some, but many families are okay with a little compromise- and vegetarian food can be cooked in a ‘non vegetarian kitchen’.

   Hriday Daswaney
   Viwaha Dreamz, Mumbai
Hotels in the Middle East and even the Tourism Boards are going the extra mile to get Indian weddings there. And today, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Ras-al-Khaimah and Lebanon are the ‘Happening Wedding Destinations’. One of the properties many of our potential clients have evinced interest in is Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Oman. The resort consists of three hotels- Al-Waha, Al-Bunder and Al-Husn, with some amazing indoor and outdoor locales for a picture perfect celebration. The Al Bustan Palace, Ritz Carlton and The Intercontinental Hotel in Muscat are some of the other properties our clients have shown interest in.

Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Oman

   Keyur Patel
   Prasang Group, Ahmedabad
The Middle East is sure to get more popular in the next few years. There is easy availability of raw materials, suppliers etc for Indian weddings so an event can be organised there  smoothly but the biggest advantage is the air connectivity, in fact we are getting lots of enquiries from Gujarat itself. The flight time is approximately 3 hours and there are direct flights from Ahmedabad to Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Muscat. A lot of our clients continue to be interested in Turkey and Macau but a wedding in the Middle East is more cost effective than these two destinations. One of the venues we are working closely with is Miramar Al Aqah Fujairah, which is 1.5 hours from Dubai International Airport and we hope to organise an Indian wedding there soon.

   Neha Goenka Shroff
   Momente Wedding Planners, Mumbai
The opulence and grandeurs of the hotels in the Middle East make them a natural fit for big Indian weddings. Some of the most popular locations in the Middle East are– Marriott Dubai, Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi and Shangri-La Muscat.The Shangri-La, Muscat is amazing and Muscat as a place is a great destination to host an Indian wedding. Relatively unexplored, it has great diversity in its offering.  Imagine sailing in a catamaran for a sundowner party with a school of over 400 dolphins for company. Oman is one of the best dive spots in Asia and has a very diverse terrain (not all desert!). You can host a beach front reception for 800 guests at the Ritz Carlton Muscat or at Shangri La Muscat you can choose from 11 indoor and outdoor spaces including a beach front venue with jagged cliffs and pristine blue sea as your backdrop. Or you can even have theMehendi&Sangeet in an Omani Heritage Village.

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

   Rimjhim Bhagchandani
   Rimjhim Events, Dubai
Some of the world’s most opulent hotels call Dubai their home so here you are spoilt for choice when it comes to locations. The varied landscape allows you to do one function at a desert resort in the middle of magnanimous sand dunes, the next event can be held on a cruise ship motoring through the beautiful creek and the finale can be at a picturesque resort on the soft sands of a beach. The cosmopolitan population of UAE means that there is availability of all types of cuisines in exceptionally authentic form.  Its connectivity allows guests as well as entertainers from both the Eastern and Western hemispheres to fly in easily. And then there’s the draw of world class shopping. Now it is not just Dubai even cities like Abu Dhabi and Muscat have started garnering interest amongst clients who are looking for a destination-wedding venue. These cities have some spectacular island and resort locations, which provide a brilliant backdrop for wedding celebrations.

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WeddingSutra’s eye in the sky brings you a roundup of the most high profile, fashionable nuptials this season. Across royal palaces in Rajasthan, exotic resorts in the Middle East to the most luxurious villas in Italy, this season too, the big fat Indian wedding is a globe-trotting one.

Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa’s Al Waha Hotel, Oman
“This wedding season it’s R’Oman’ce all the way”, says a top destination-wedding planner. He is referring to Oman, the hottest new wedding destination. Enquiries about how to organize a wedding in the stunning Sultanate of Oman are flooding Indian wedding planners. Krupa Khimji, an Oman based Indian wedding planner is reportedly at the helm of two magnificent weddings taking place there. The venues for the shaadis include the Shangri-La’a Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, a luxurious and romantic wedding venue situated between the Hajar mountain range and the Sea of Oman, and the Al-Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel and the Millennium Resort. The wedding at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, is expected to be a grand destination wedding with Bollywood glitterati in attendance– the bride, Sasha Rawal, is the sister of a leading Bollywood designer (Kunal Rawal) while her fiancé Samarth Bajaj is the scion of a big business family.

Waldorf Astoria, Ras Al Khaimah
A 40-minute drive from Dubai, this beach-front resort offers palatial rooms, stylish dining and an 18-hole golf course. Situated between the desert, the mountains and the shores of Ras Al Khaimah, this property was built with luxurious weddings and big events in mind. One of the biggest destination weddings of the season takes place here in November. The Kolkata based Belanis are hosting their son’s wedding and the functions include a welcome dinner at Amasi Beach at Al Hamra Palace Hotel, the Mehendi on the lawns of the Waldorf Astoria, the Sangeet at Bassata Desert and a reception dinner at the Al Hamra Golf Club.

 Villa Corti, Florence, Italy
“Amiamo l’Italia!” Indians cannot resist this stylish, sparkling gem in Europe. Every wedding season, at least one big Indian wedding finds its way to Florence, which has now emerged as one of our favorite wedding destinations. November will witness a Dubai-London alliance in stunning Firenze. Over 400 guests have received an exquisite invitation to the three-day celebrations (a Florence-Indian themed card designed by Delhi’s Vivek Sahni). Guests will reside at the St Regis and The Westin and the celebrations take place at five different venues including Villa Corti, a lavish renaissance villa set in a small town in the Tuscan countryside near Florence. With its own vineyards and olive groves, this property is a blend of traditional European luxury with modern-day pampering.

Samode Palace, Rajasthan
Rishabh Thakkar, a Mumbai based businessman is tying the knot with writer and actress Sukhmani Sadana, at Samode Palace, Jaipur. The wedding is expected to be a chic, elegant affair. Though Jaipur’s Fairmont is the hottest new venue in Rajasthan, Samode Palace set in a village, a long drive away from Jaipur, deep into the Rajasthan desert, is a popular haunt for the rich and famous seeking privacy for a traditional wedding experience. Last year, actress Anjori Alagh, daughter of Sunil and Maya Alagh also tied the knot there.

Another Jaipur celebration (a post-wedding affair) that is marked on the calendar of the country’s who’s who is of Aditi Kothari, daughter of top investment banker, Hemendra Kothari. Aditi tied the knot with Vikram Desai at a very simple ceremony in Mumbai some months ago but the post-wedding celebrations in Jaipur are expected to be a lavish affair at iconic properties like the Sujan Rajmahal Palace and Jaigarh Fort.

Qasar Al Sarab, Anantara, Abu Dubai
The Anantara managed resort set in the largest uninterrupted desert in the world, spells luxury and opulence like only an Arab experience can. Its villas and spa are designed to reflect the quintessential royal lavishness of the Middle East. This will be the venue for a high profile wedding (the bride’s family is from Dubai while the groom is a scion of the Raheja family). We asked one of the close friends of the groom on why he chose this unusual desert property. “It’s a place where no Indian wedding has ever taken place. Also, Abu Dhabi is just a short flight away from Mumbai so it’s a win-win, offering privacy as well as a novel experience”.

Grand Hyatt Goa
When the bride is the daughter of the owner of India’s top events & wedding company you can be sure that this celebration will be incredible. But Khushi Singh, daughter of Percept’s Chairman & MD Harry (Harindra) Singh who also manages Percept’s wedding division, laughs, “I’ve been busy planning other weddings, so in all likelihood my own wedding will be a simpler affair!” The venue is the Grand Hyatt, Goa. “Needless to say it’s being planned by Percept, with some help from my dear friend and ace wedding planner Aditya Motwane”, states Khushi.

And speaking of old money families, we can’t help mention the home-weddings. After all, some of the most well-heeled yet low profile own the most stunning weekend homes. Later this year, the Crishna’s (actor/ corporate head honcho Vijay Crishna and his industrialist wife Smita Crishna Godrej) host their daughter’s wedding at their beach-side home in Alibaug. The groom-to-be is a scion of Indore’s Holkar family.

And train your sights on Austria in the coming year. Parth Jindal, the son of Sangita and Sajjan Jindal will tie the knot in old world city Vienna. Incidentally, Sangita and Sajjan Jindal hosted one of the first high profile destination weddings in Europe, when their daughter Tanvi wed Krishna Shete in Florence. The Jindals are now in the process of finalizing the venues for the fairytale wedding, which is expected to take place across four different imperial palaces and idyllic venues. Watch this space for more!

The Wedding & Event Management companies planning some of these weddings include:
Motwane Entertainment & Weddings (MEW)
Kamal Khera
Weddings by Tamarind Global
Divinity Weddings
Percept Weddings
Svaha Events
Mosaic Events, Muscat

Destination Vienna
Parth Jindal, son of industrialists Sangita and Sajjan Jindal is marrying Anushree Jasani, daughter of Mumbai builders Uday and Nunu Jasani, in Vienna next month. Over 800 guests are expected at the 3-day celebrations to be held at different venues including Belvedere Palace, one of the palaces of the former royal family of Austria. International sensation Enrique Iglesias will be there to enthrall guests though whether he’ll be performing at the Sangeet or the post wedding reception is a secret for now. Top shaadi singer Mika will be flying in to Vienna too. A host of big names from the world of weddings and their teams (over 180 in number) are travelling to Austria for the Jindal-Jasani wedding. Mumbai’s Aditya Motwane (Motwane Entertainment & Weddings) is orchestrating the wedding along with local hospitality and event specialists. Delhi’s Vandana Mohan is conceptualising the design and décor. Ritu Dalmia is curating the menus in coordination with high-profile chefs from Europe while the family has roped in haute couturiers like Rohit Bal and Abu-Sandeep for the ensembles.

From top left (clockwise)- Belvedere Palace Vienna, Anushree and Parth Jindal, Sangita and Sajjan Jindal, Enrique Iglesias.

Whispers of Weddings in Monaco and Spain
Curious to know where the grandest Indian weddings are taking place in 2016? As always, you’re reading about it here first. This winter will witness some mega weddings in Jodhpur, Jaipur and Udaipur in Rajasthan, power weddings in Delhi and Mumbai of course; but finally it’s the few uber-glam yet elegant weddings in Europe which make big news. This time the locations are Monte Carlo in Monaco and Barcelona in Spain. An NRI family will host the Monte Carlo wedding in July. Spain is expected to witness two spectacular destination weddings – one celebrated by a London based NRI family and the other by a Gujarat/ Mumbai based business tycoon. The planners have requested us to keep the details under wraps now, so we can’t reveal more!

New Horizons for Middle Eastern Magic
While Thailand, Turkey and Bali will always be the international hotspots for Indian Weddings, it’s the surge in weddings in the Middle East since 2014 that is an interesting development. A little birdie tells us Isheta Salgaoncar (Mukesh and Anil Ambani’s niece) and Neeshal Modi (Jewellery czar Nirav Modi’s brother) who were formally engaged at The Trident, Mumbai last week are now checking out some wow venues in the Middle East. While Shangri-la Muscat and the Ritz Carlton properties in Abu Dhabi and Muscat have hosted some high profile Indian weddings, the newest Middle East destination that is keen to get a slice of big Indian wedding pie is Jordan and the Delhi office of Jordan Tourism is working hard to get the wealthiest Indians to celebrate their special events there.

Isheta Salgaoncar and Neeshal Modi with her parents Dipti and Raj Salgaoncar

Gurleen’s Round the World Roundup
With so many options around the world, where does this leave good, ol’ big fat Indian weddings held at the country’s iconic hotels and sprawling grounds? “They’re thriving,” smiles ace Wedding Designer Gurleen Puri. “Destination Weddings at the newest locales may be more fashionable, but for many families a home town affair continues to be very practical”, says Gurleen. “But there’s no denying that destination weddings are shaping trends and aspirations for well-heeled brides and grooms”, observes Gurleen who enjoys the local flavour of home town weddings as much as the fun-spirit of destination weddings. “In 2015 wedding work took me to Gujarat and Rajasthan several times and each of the assignments were challenging yet emotionally satisfying; on the travels and leisure front I enjoyed a wedding recce to Oman, after which I attended a wedding at the newly-opened Anantara property in Abu Dhabi. As a guest, each of these experiences were unique and that is what hosts look for – to give guests a unique setting through decor, food, entertainment or an all-new venue of course.”

WeddingSutra invites you to step into palatial palaces and regal resorts around the world that have hosted Indian weddings for illustrious families whose tastes are no less than those of royalty with their penchant for glitz, opulence and class. Check out our list of royal venues that guarantee a lavish fairytale setting and make a couple truly feel like a prince and princess.

1. Al Bustan Palace – A Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Sultanate of Oman
A 20-minute drive from Muscat brings one to the sprawling Al Bustan Palace in the Sultanate of Oman. It was originally constructed in 1985, and today is a landmark destination for exclusive weddings. Its design is inspired by Arab and art deco influences, and its majestic 38-metre-high domed atrium lobby is truly impressive. This five-star resort’s distinctive wedding venues include the largest ballroom in Oman and manicured gardens for outdoor ceremonies with a backdrop of the Al Hajar mountains and brilliant blue Sea of Oman. The Qantab Room can cater for up to 500 guests for a banquet, and the Manjan Ballroom can accommodate up to 2,000 guests for a reception, and 750 for banquet. The hotel boasts 198 rooms and 25 luxury suites.

Photos Courtesy – Shades

2. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
One of the most expensive hotels every built, the seven-star Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi is striking with its traditional Arabian design elements that include a grand dome and 114 smaller domes in colors reflecting different shades of sand found in the Arabian Desert. With sumptuous furnishings, palatial interiors and a stunning view of the Indian Ocean, the hotel is spread over a million meters, and has 302 deluxe luxury rooms, 92 suites, landscaped gardens, 1002 chandeliers made with Swarovski’s premier Strauss crystals and the region’s largest ballroom with a capacity for 2,500 guests. In February this year, Bollywood stars Anil Kapoor, Sridevi, Arjun and Sonam Kapoor attended the wedding of their cousin Akshay Marwah to Aashita Relan here. The three-day wedding was attended by around 300 guests and the city’s finest florists were roped in to add that additional wow factor to the stunning venue.

3. San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice, Italy
Located on the private 17-acre island of San Clemente and boasting of its own 12th-century church, the San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice dates back to 1131. Its Renaissance-style buildings, restored gardens and historic monastery makes this hotel a wedding destination with a difference. Wedding guests are assured exclusivity given that it is a private island, yet there are lots of activities to indulge in – from golf to tennis, jogging to relaxing in heated pools. With its sprawling gardens, the hotel is ideal for couples who want a large-scale seaside wedding with amazing views. That’s exactly what UK-based Indian billionaire Pramod Agarwal got when he booked this property for his daughter Vineeta’s wedding to Muqit Teja in 2011. The three-day wedding saw over 800 guests attending, and a Michelin star chef Federico Salza laying out a vegetarian Italian spread. The historic ramparts of the hotel were decorated like an extravagant Indian wedding venue where Shakira performed and delighted the gathering of global guests.

4. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad
‘Falaknuma’ means ‘Like the sky’ or ‘Mirror of the sky’ – and it is little wonder that the stately Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad continues to be a magnet for illustrious families who choose it as a wedding venue. Situated 2,000 feet above the historic city of Hyderabad, the hotel exudes the class and refinement of the erstwhile Nizams with its blend of Italian and Tudor architecture. Its 60 beautifully restored rooms, stunning Reception Room and 22 spacious halls ensure there is ample venues for myriad wedding events. One of the highlights of this regal property is its immense collection of Venetian chandeliers which is said to be the largest in the world.

Photos Courtesy – Picture Art Company – Arjun Khurana

Photo Courtesy – Abhishek Sarkar

5. Çıragan Palace Kempinski, Istanbul, Turkey
The grandeur of the former Ottoman Empire is evident at the impressive Ciragan Palace in the Turkish capital of Istanbul. Dating back to 1867, this luxury hotel is located on the European shore of the Bosphorus and was beautifully restored in 2007. In 2012, Vartika, niece of UK-based billionaire of Indian origin Lakshmi Mittal, wed Utsav Goenka here. With 313 rooms, including 20 suites in the main hotel section and 11 suites in the imperial palace section, the hotel is ranked as one of the most expensive in the world. Some of its highlights includes the spacious wedding terrace and Ciragan Ballroom overlooking the blue waters of the Bosphorus.

6. Belvedere Palace, Vienna, Austria
This historic building complex comprises two Baroque palaces, decorative fountains, imposing wrought iron gates and sprawling gardens. Built in the early 18th century, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses some of the most notable collections of Austrian art. Business scions Sangita and Sajjan Jindal’s son Parth Jindal married Anushree Jasani at this beautiful venue. The historic ramparts of the Belvedere Palace came alive with this three-day Bollywood-style extravaganza which had a ‘Celestial Rhapsody’ theme. The white walls of the palace were vibrant with backdrops of floral arrangements installed on and around the walkway in colors of deep pink, red and gold.

7. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Home to Jodhpur’s royal family and situated at the city’s highest vantage point Chittar Hill, Umaid Bhawan Palace impresses all at first sight with its majestic structure and marvellous surroundings. This luxury heritage hotel is one of the world’s largest private residences and guests feel no less than royalty here. The palace was designed by renowned Edwardian architect Henry Lanchester, with a blend of eastern and western architectural influences. An immutable tribute to art deco, the hotel’s posh suites come with private sit-out areas that offer stunning views of the city, panoramic lawns and courtyards. Many celebrity weddings have been held here, and the gardens of this gorgeous property have hosted guests numbering thousands. Perfect for large-scale weddings, Umaid Bhawan Palace epitomises the best in luxury and heritage at the same time.

Photos Courtesy – OneLight Studio (left), Inderjeet Gill (right)

Photos Courtesy – Manie Bhatia

8. The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
A historical tourist attraction in itself, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is the ultimate in luxury if you’re looking for an exclusive venue amongst colonial structures in the picturesque part of bustling Mumbai. This iconic hotel, overlooking the majestic Gateway of India, dates back over a 100 years, to 1903. Each of the 550 rooms and suites are a blend of nostalgic elegance, rich history and modern facilities. The 11 newly refurbished halls and venues are ideal for elaborate weddings as well as intimate gatherings. The Ballroom, spacious enough for 450 guests, is perfect for grand private events. For a larger banquet, there’s the massive, pillar-less Crystal Room which can host over 800 guests. A delightful option for a private celebration with about 100 guests is the Rendezvous on the Rooftop venue with its 360-degree panoramic view of Mumbai. If you’re choosing to tie the knot at one of their exquisite venues, you can be certain that your guests will take back memories of exquisite culinary experiences that this hotel is famous for.

Photos Courtesy – Monica Moghe Photography

9. Il Borro, Tuscany, Italy
The 700-acre estate of Il Borro in Italy’s picturesque Tuscany region offers a unique and spectacular space for luxurious Indian weddings. Il Borro is an estate that is owned by the Ferragamo family and boasts of its own medieval village, 19th-century villa and rustic farms. Surrounded by the beautiful Chianti hills and Apennine mountains, the paradise in Tuscany offers myriad options for rooms including luxury suites, villas and farmhouses. A member of the luxury Relais et Chateaux chain, it sets a new standard for luxury resorts, especially when it comes to peace, privacy and picture-perfect locales.

10. Palace of Versailles, France
Listed as a World Heritage Site for 30 years, the Palace of Versailles is a royal château in Versailles, in the Île-de-France region of France. Built by Louis XIII in 1623 as a basic hunting lodge at first, it was expanded into a royal palace by Louis XIV. With landscaped gardens, elaborate interiors and an unmatchable collection of art and statues, Palace of Versailles continues to be a top draw for tourists. However, when it comes to hosting private wedding events, that is still rare as the venue allowed an engagement party for the first time when UK billionaire Lakshmi Mittal’s daughter got betrothed to banker Amit Bhatia. It is alleged that it took the tycoon a year to arrange for requisite permissions, making it a truly exclusive venue. The engagement party was held at the Battle Gallery inside the Palace of Versailles, while the wedding took place at the Vaux le Vimconte, another spectacular and palatial chateau also in France.

11. Edinburgh Castle
For centuries, Edinburgh Castle, perched majestically on Castle Rock, high above the city, was the preferred residence of pure blood royalty. This iconic landmark may be the most unforgettable setting to say ‘I do’ in. The oldest building in Edinburgh, St Margaret’s Chapel is perfect for an intimate ceremony. There are several larger venues too, each with sweeping vistas right outside the threshold. The Queen Anne building can host up to 170 people and is a sumptuous setting, right in the heart of the palace grounds and perfect for a grand banquet. The Jacobite Room is another popular venue. It has a capacity of 100 for inner or 150 for an evening reception. Its special features are the stunning modern interiors in an 18th century structure with awe inspiring high ceilings. Treat your guests to dramatic views overlooking Princes Street and the Firth of Forth. Then bedazzle them with a tour of the Crown Jewels.

12. Stirling Castle
With its beautiful buildings and breathtaking gardens, Stirling Castle has a history of royal celebrations. One of Scotland’s most stunning stone castles, the structures have been added to and embellished over the centuries. The Royal Palace, childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, was recently restored to its Renaissance glory. Stirling Castle is available for your exclusive use outside of visitor hours. The castle’s on-site Events Team is very experienced in planning unique events. Pick from a number of locations and venues to suit each of your ceremonies. For example, there is nothing quite as picturesque as a wedding shoot held in the Queen Anne Garden. The magnificently decorated palace rooms also provide splendid backdrops. To celebrate, the Chapel Royal has a capacity of 200 – 240 people and is a superb choice for wedding ceremonies and receptions, with a large stage ideally suited to a wedding band or other entertainment. You can even choose to have a cocktail reception here before dining in the Great Hall. Scotland’s largest medieval banqueting hall, recently restored to its 16th century splendor, the Great Hall can host up to 300 people (reception style). Round off a magical day with a reception in an enchanting setting. A raised dais area is perfect for table seating or for dancing.

13. Castell de Sant Marcal
Historians say the Sant Marçal or Cerdanyola Castle was built during the first third of the 11th century and has been owned by the same family for 700 years. The castle is known for its old world beauty, stunning façade and beautiful grounds. The magnificent gardens of the Castell de Sant Marcal lend themselves to a great variety of stagings, making each function of your wedding unique and exclusive. A great way to experience a wedding at Castell De Sant Marcal is to watch Jill and Niraj’s wedding video. Catch all the special moments in this 11th century wonder with a Gothic chapel and moat and imagine the perfect backdrop for brightly colored Indian festivities and revelers.

Photos Courtesy – Erich McVey

14. Jai Mahal, Jaipur
Built in 1745, the Jai Mahal Palace is a stunning piece of Rajasthan’s heritage and a great example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Set amidst 18 acres of landscaped Mughal gardens, the palace has been painstakingly restored and recently refurbished. It is now a luxury five-star Taj Heritage Hotel with 94 rooms and six suites equipped with modern-day comforts and unbeatable views of the city and palace gardens.
Explore the palace history and its landscaped gardens and plan a fairy tale wedding with up to 2,500 guests at the Palace Lawns. The Celebration Lawns are also perfect for intimate outdoor functions like mehendi ceremonies and brunches, while the Durbar Hall is perfect for indoor celebrations.

15. Buda Castle, Budapest
Budapest, with its historic wealth, panoramic terraces and glamorous ballrooms is rising to the top of the lists of exotic, ethereal wedding destinations. Couples are inspired by visions of walking down the aisle in stately settings, art nouveau architecture as backdrop, the meandering Danube in the vicinity, the iconic Chain Bridge in one picture, the palatial Buda Castle in another… It may be one of the most beautiful places in the world to say ‘I Do’. The Royal Palace in Szent György tér is an emblematic architectural masterpiece in the cityscape, and the building easiest to recognize from the Pest side of the Danube. The Castle was home to the kings of Hungary from the 13th century and is irresistible as a venue in Budapest to tie the knot!

Love what you see? For contacts at Palaces in Britain, please call Mercury Travels on 1800 266 2345 or write to them at outbound@mercurytravels.in

To see more gorgeous venues for Destination Weddings Visit- Taj, Oman, Shangri-la

Also check out- Real Destination Weddings

The post 15 Magnificent Palaces for a Royal Indian Wedding appeared first on WeddingSutra Blog.

Following a dreamy engagement party at the magnificent Emirates Palace, Danube heir Adel Sajan decided to charter a luxury liner for his star-studded wedding to artist Sana Khan. The special four-day celebrationsfollowed a #DilDhadakneDo themed festivities that included gala dinners, pool deck parties and a star-studded guest list.

Wedding Décor
The event planning and wedding décor were conceptualized by WedNiksha. From organizing a retro themed welcome dinner to a fairytale wedding function and after party, the flamboyance and the colorfulness were intricately showcased in this 4-day extravaganza!

Wedding Functions

Welcome Dinner
The luxurious destination wedding celebrations started with a gala welcome dinner followed by hi tea. To match up to the fully illuminated décor, Sana chose to go with a dazzling 1920’s inspired flapper dress which was accessorized with statement diamond earrings and an immaculate finger curl pony.

Sangeet
The Sangeet was a celebratory affair which included thoughtful speeches by loved ones followed by some breathtaking dance performances and acrobatics from professionals. Popular singer and rapper, Badshahand musicians Vishal &Shekhar kept the guests entertained with some hit numbers and other upbeat Bollywood songs. To suit the jovial environment of the sangeet party, Sana went for an embellished green lehenga with golden zardozi embroidery and tulle green cape, designed by Neeta Lulla. She accessorized her glimmering ensemble with stacked necklaces, maang tikka and jhumkas.

Wedding
The star- studded wedding was attended by the crème-de-la crème of Bollywood. Some of the celebrities that were on board for the celebrations were Gauhar Khan, Hussain Kuwajerwala, Malaika Arora Khan, GurmeetChoudhary and wife Debina, Rohit Roy and wife ManasiShilpa and Shamita Shetty, Dia Mirza, the rapper Badshah, the Meet Bros and Vishal-Shekhar among others. Following the traditional theme of the wedding, the different decks of the ship were decorated to reflect the charm of Indian rituals and customs. The wedding also followed a ‘hatke’ baraat ceremony wherein the groom and his family had to parade through the outer decks of the ship, to reach his beautiful bride-to-be. For Sana’s big day, ace designer Neeta Lulla designed a flowy tulle off-shoulder lehenga with 3D floral embellishments to suit the dreamy nature of this fantasy-filled cruise wedding.

The Reception
The reception was a grand affair with an elegant ballroom theme. The décor was entirely done with white florals and was hosted at the upper pool area of the cruise liner. The night was a lovely celebration of the duo’s union and had celebrities such as Gauhar Khan and Sushmita Sen share emotional tidbits through their heart touching speeches. For the evening, Fashion designer Neeta Lulla designed an effervescent ‘princess bride’ gown which was accessorized with a stunning choker necklace and statement earrings.

The Wedding Makers
Invitations & Stationery: Puneet Gupta Luxury
Bridal Ensembles: Neeta Lulla
Catering: Foodlink Banquets & Catering Pvt. Ltd.
Event Planning: Wedniksha

Photography- Knotty Affair by Namit and Vipul

The post Sana and Adel’s cruise wedding is what dreams are made of! appeared first on WeddingSutra Blog.

By Deepanjali Pandey, Consulting Editor and Writer

When VVIP guests arrive on their private jets, and power networking sessions are planned somewhere between the sangeet and the reception, you know it is a wedding of a member of the Billionaire’s Club (B-Club). Take a look at what goes into planning B-Club nuptials, and how India’s top wedding makers are catering to this discerning set.

Move over B-Town (Bollywood) weddings, and welcome to B-Club (Billionaires Club) nuptials where no request is considered too small, and no detail can be overlooked. India’s top wedding planners and bespoke service providers share that B-Club weddings almost always include guests arriving on private jets or chartered planes, privacy is given top preference (hotels, wedding planners and service providers have to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements), and bespoke luxury services are made available that take care of all the special requirements of guests.

According to Pawan Mirchandani, founder of Horizon WIE, one of India’s top wedding planning companies, “There are destination, glitzy and extravagant weddings – and then there are B-Club weddings which are several notches higher on many fronts. Every little detail of B-Club guests has to be considered when planning these weddings – from their room requirements, meal preferences, accommodating personal staff and security, and even ensuring that boardrooms or meeting rooms are primed for power networking sessions.”

Many members of India’s business families typically go to the same schools (think Cathedral and John Connon School, Dhirubhai Ambani International School and Ecole Mondiale World School in Mumbai; Doon School in Dehradun, and Modern School in New Delhi). Many of them also graduate from the same Ivy League colleges. As a result, B-Club marriages become a sort of reunion for old friends, and more importantly, business contacts.

There are some favorites when it comes to service providers. Luxury wedding planners who are on B-Club speed dials include Bhavnesh and Farid of Wedniksha, Aditya Motwane of MEW, Pawan Mirchandani of Horizon WIE, Rimjhim of Rimjhim Events Dubai, Neha Seth Arora of Var Vadhu, Ekta of Weddings by Ekta Saigal Lulla: and ace wedding designers Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Vandana Mohan, Dhun Cordo and Ipsita Biswas and Mushtaq Ali (Celebrations).

When it comes to catering for B-Club events, top companies such as FoodLink, headed by Sanjay Vazirani, has served up world-class cuisine at VVIP Indian weddings everywhere from India to Italy. Many B-Club members prefer to fly in their personal chefs to rustle up familiar dishes or serve them especially when they attend destination weddings, instead of relying on the hotel’s staff.

According to Mumbai-based Ekta Saigal Lulla, the trend among the younger B-Club members on the food front is not to invite traditionally famous food people from different parts of India to cater to their weddings. Rather, they prefer flying in their favorite gourmet restaurants’ fare from Mumbai and New Delhi, or dessert specialists from Europe. Ekta elaborates, “Many elite brides and grooms don’t want the typical dosa stalls or ‘chai walas’, ‘paan walas’ and ‘sherbet makers’… Instead, they prefer inviting their favorite pizza, burger, waffle and ice cream brands to neatly package and serve their fare at one or more functions. Even luxury tea and coffee chains find a place at luxe destination weddings, and the menu is planned accordingly. Think English Breakfast tea in the mornings, Masala Chai through the day, and Chamomile post lavish dinners.”

Wedding gifts for guests at traditional B-Club weddings are chosen for impact, not price. Exclusive collectibles from luxury brands such as Ravissant and Lladro still find plenty of traction among the elite. For example, at Shashwat Goenka’s January 2016 wedding, guests reportedly received silver items from Ravissant in their goodie bags, as well as a carpet designed by Paresh Maity, India’s famous Padma Shri awarded painter. Shashwat Goenka is the scion of the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group. Lladro, the Spanish luxury porcelain company, is known for its sculptures of Indian deities such as Ganesha which are immensely popular as wedding favors. At Swati and Ajay Piramal’s daughter Nandini’s Jaipur wedding in 2009, select guests reportedly got a specially designed perfume made in France. Today, everything, from Mont Blanc pens to personalized Louis Vuitton Monogram handbags and wallets, classic Burberry scarves to luxury watches, gold-embossed Bhagwat Gita collections and limited-edition paintings by prized artists are preferred by B-Club patrons as wedding favors.

Couturiers like Manish Malhotra, Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Monica and Karishma (JADE) continue to be top draws among B-Club fashionistas. Makeup maestros such as Mickey Malhotra, Namrata Soni, and Ojas Rajani have their appointment calendars booked by illustrious families who want to look distinct from other well-heeled guests at their multi-crore weddings.

When it comes to entertainment, celebrity dance instructor Rajendra Masterji juggles high-profile bookings from B-Club clients who want him to teach them how to swirl to the latest beats at those high-profile sangeet events.

B-Club wedding memories are captured by talented companies such as Reels and Frames, WeddingNama, The Photo Diary, Stories by Jo Radhik, Cupcake Productions, DotDusk Studios, Ramit Batra, Colorblind Productions, CoolBluez, Hitched & Clicked, among others. According to Anand Rathi, founder of Reels and Frames, “Most B-Club marriages are kept very discreet and all wedding teams especially photographers are given strict instructions to ensure the privacy of photos. However, younger members of the B-Club fraternity are increasingly sharing pictures and videos of the celebrations and customized fashions on channels like Instagram, which is perhaps the only place one can have a peek at the gorgeous but guarded celebrations.”

Wedding venues are, of course, chosen after much deliberation. Here are some exclusive hotspots which B-Club families favor for their nuptials.

1. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Umaid Bhawan Palace, which is managed by the Taj Group of Hotels, is one of the world’s largest private residences and includes a private museum and marbled squash courts. Close by lies the well-preserved Mehrangarh Fort which is a popular venue for royal dinners and luxury soirees.

Who Wed Here: Deepak Parekh, chairman of HDFC Bank, hosted his son’s wedding here in November 2014, and it was attended by top industrialists, corporate heads, and society titans. Priyanka, daughter of billionaire diamond and jewelry king Mehul Choksi, wed Akash Mehta here in 2011.

2. Jag Mandir Udaipur, Rajasthan
A 17th-century palace, Jag Mandir (Lake Garden Palace) attracts many elite guests who are ferried to its historic structure in the middle of Lake Pichola by boats. An in-house heritage museum, stunning water views, tranquil gardens and regal courtyards ensure a royal wedding or magnificent sangeet experience for the moneyed set.

Who Wed Here: Billionaire businessman Rajesh Shah, chairman of steel company Mukand, hosted his son Kaustubh’s wedding to beauty queen Radha Brahmbhatt here in October 2016. In 2015, UK-based billionaire Sanjay Hinduja wed designer Anu Mahtani here, and Jennifer Lopez was the star entertainer for the event.

3. Al Bustan Palace: A Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, Muscat, Oman
Set in the middle of an exquisite garden between the dramatic Al Hajar Mountains and the Sea of Oman, the massive Al Bustan Palace offers picture-perfect outdoor and indoor backdrops for dazzling weddings. With a spectacular lobby and impressive ballrooms, this gorgeous Ritz-Carlton property has become a name to reckon with in the wedding venues sphere. The other jewel in Muscat’s crown is the sprawling Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa which comprises three hotels in one complex, each with its own distinctive attractions such as ballrooms with crystal chandeliers, the scenic Turtle Beach, and standout architecture.

Who Wed Here: Vaibhav Sood, managing director of the New Delhi-based Eros Group, married jewelry designer Nazuk Bardeja at a stunning wedding ceremony at Al Bustan Palace. Hyderabad-based jewelry designer Bunty Bajaj hosted her son Samarth’s wedding to Sasha Rawal at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa in December 2015. Billionaire businessmen such as GVK head Sanjay Reddy attended the Rawal-Bajaj wedding, as did Bollywood stars Sonam Kapoor and her father Anil Kapoor.

Photos Courtesy: Ramit Batra

4. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad, Telangana
A regal structure dating back to the 19th century, the Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad is also the Hyderabad residence of Princess Esra belonging to the Asaf Jah Dynasty of Hyderabad state by marriage. Offering a grand view of the city from its elevated ramparts, this hotel is close to iconic landmarks such as the Charminar.

Who Wed Here: Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s sister Arpita wed New Delhi-based businessman Aayush Sharma here in October 2014. The star reportedly booked the entire hotel to ensure the privacy and security of VVIP guests, including top stars, politicians, and businessmen.

5. Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
With a vantage view of the historic Gateway of India, Mumbai’s iconic Taj Mahal Palace has become the top choice as a wedding venue for many Mumbai-based business families over the years. Built in 1903, it offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and plenty of impeccable indoor and outdoor venue choices (for members only) for weddings.

Who Wed Here: YES Bank founder Rana Kapoor’s daughter Radha, and self-made billionaire Ronnie Screwvala’s daughter Trishya both wed their beaus here in January this year. Radha wed hedge fund manager Aditya, and Trishya wed popular sports presenter Suhail Chandhok.

6. Taj Palace, New Delhi
The Durbar Ballroom at the ever popular Taj Palace New Delhi has hosted many elite wedding soirees and continues to be one of go-to wedding venues for wealthy families based in the capital. Prized for its location in the heart of New Delhi’s diplomatic enclave, the hotel offers six acres of lush surroundings for dream weddings.

Who Wed Here: Nayan Raheja of Raheja Developers wed Kashish in 2013, and his grand reception held here was attended by the who’s who of India’s corporate and business worlds.

7. Grand Hyatt, Goa
This luxury resort in Goa is spread over 28 acres of verdant gardens and is flanked by a beach where guests can unwind and relax with the waves lapping their toes. Its distinctive Indo-Portuguese palace-style architecture includes regal rooms, spacious banquet facilities and beautiful lawns for magical sunset weddings.

Who Wed Here: Karan Adani, son of billionaire Gautam Adani wed Paridhi Shroff here in February 2013. Paridhi is the daughter of Cyril Shroff, who is the co-owner of one of India’s top law firms. In December 2016, Isheta Salgaocar, daughter of Raj and Dipti Salgaocar, wed Neeshal Modi, younger brother of jewelry baron Nirav Modi. The Salgaocars are one of Goa’s most established business families. A part of this wedding’s celebrations was held at the Grand Hyatt and was attended by Mukesh and Anil Ambani who are Dipti Salgaocar’s brothers.

8. The Ritz Carlton & Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace boasts of 85 hectares of beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal in Abu Dhabi is another regal structure in the UAE capital. Its design was inspired by the Italian Renaissance aesthetic. It offers a private beach for seaside weddings, alongside sprawling ballrooms and gardens with the backdrop of the grand Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

Who Wed Here: Mumbai-based businessman Atul Nishar, who founded Hexaware, wed his daughter Devangi to Saharsh Parekh, son of Kolkata-based stockbroker Utsav Parekh at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal in February last year. Anushka Rajan, daughter of billionaire Abhijit Rajan, MD of Gammon India, tied the knot with Abbishek Doshii at the Emirates Palace in February this year.

9. Shangri-La Hotel Chiang Mai
The luxurious Shangri-La Chiang Mai in Thailand is a magnet for Indian-origin billionaire families residing in South East Asia. Its tranquil ambiance and world-class amenities offer a destination wedding experience with a difference.

Who Wed Here: Hong Kong-based businessman Dhiraj Wadhwani and Sheryl Buxani tied the knot here in September 2013. Sheryl hails from the established and elite Buxani family who sell high-end diamonds and jewelry under the Temptations brand. Anand Jain, the owner of Jaicorp Limited, also hosted his son’s wedding in Chiang Mai which was attended by members of the Ambani family.

10. ITC Grand Chola, Chennai
Located just 8km from the Chennai domestic and international airports, the ITC Grand Chola is a majestic structure that has hosted many glittering society weddings in Chennai over the years. It offers service apartments, banquet halls, and world-class dining spaces.

Who Wed Here: Nayantara, daughter of Chennai-based Bhadrashyam and Nina Kothari, wed Shamit Bhartia, son of Shobhana Bhartia, chairperson of The Hindustan Times Group in January 2014. Shamit is the grandson of noted billionaire KK Birla. and some of their wedding functions were held at the hotel. Nayantara’s maternal uncles – Mukesh and Anil Ambani – made up the glittering guest list.

The post Billionaire Club Weddings: From Exclusive Venues to Elite Services appeared first on WeddingSutra Blog.

Rising majestically out of the beach front, on the Abu Dhabi Corniche, the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers dramatic sculptural form is not only spectacular to behold, it is the ideal setting for an unforgettable celebration.

With some of the most stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, the hotel is a luxurious backdrop for a romantic destination wedding. With its opulence and culture of gracious hospitality and easy connectivity, it’s the only choice to host a big, fat, Indian wedding.

Here are five facets to this jewel of an award-winning luxury hotel that is perfect for your wedding.

Perfect Location
Once inside, you may be transported into another world, yet the hotel is set in the heart of the city, within 2 km of Al Khubeirah Garden and the renowned Marina Mall. Between festivities, your guests will have enviable access to the city around them and can explore at ease.

Elegant Wedding Venues
Levels and layers, a palette of ambiences – every wedding and celebration space in this hotel is elegant and grand. Your guests can enjoy drinks and aperitifs on the spacious indoor terrace, with views over the hotel’s stunning atrium and then move to the majestic Mezzoon Ballroom, with its tasteful use of marble and crystal, for a reception dinner for anywhere from 100 to 1,000 guests. With the luxury of space and design, it’s no wonder that Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is one of the most in-demand wedding venues in all of Abu Dhabi.

Scrumptious Couture, Cuisine and more
Once you’re done shopping at the internationally known Avenue at Etihad Towers, it’s time to sample the dizzying choice of international cuisines, fine beverages and imaginative cocktails available at the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers restaurants and bars. Whether you’re taking your bridesmaids on a quick, naughty, between-moments treat or want to impress your new in-laws with your taste, you’re spoilt for choice with the exceptional leisure facilities and activities on offer.

Spacious and Luxurious Accommodation
While the hotel is stunning from the outside, inside it is warm, gracious and inspiring. Each of the 382 elegant rooms and suites affords some of the most stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. There are 199 fully serviced residences which are intuitively designed and lavishly appointed, offering the height of elegant living. Whether you need an intimate studio or an expansive three-bedroom option, the Abu Dhabi Hotel has exactly the accommodation you need.

Indulgent pampering and pleasures
This is where you can revel in the realm of the senses – cool off in one of the three sparkling swimming pools, stroll along the glorious private beach, treat yourself to some of the best retail therapy in the Middle East, or simply let loose and allow yourself to be pampered at the Talise Spa. You’ll find their service is second to none and it’s no surprize; after all, the hotel’s options for recreation are built to ensure you’re stress-free amidst the preparations for the big day.

To plan your dream wedding at Jumeirah at Etihad towers Jumeirah at Etihad towers

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We’ve seen all Bollywood actors attending weddings on the silver screen a thousand times. However, it’s a rare sight to catch them at ease, surrounded by their loved ones at the nuptials of friends and family. The real person behind the star letting loose at the sangeet of someone they’ve known all their lives or a warm hug shared with a relative at a reception.

Here are ten times we spotted these tinsel-townies at weddings featured on WeddingSutra.

1. Piya Trivedi, Gaurav Kapoor and more at Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa, Thailand
When Archana and Dheeraj tied the knot, their closest friends from the industry flew in to make the celebrations more special. Pia Trivedi, flanked by the couple, smiles for the camera at their beachside mehendi. Set on the beautiful Eastern Thai coastline just an hour’s drive from Pattaya, Rayong Marriott Resort & Spa, Thailand complemented every mood the wedding presented through festivities that went on for three fun-filled days.

Photo courtesy: The Lightsmiths

2. Sonam Kapoor at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Oman
Sonam Kapoor was a boho queen, soaking in the sun in a white Anamika Khanna lehenga as she celebrated with Sasha and Samarth at their beachside mehendi. The lush environs of Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Oman, overlooking the turquoise waters and dramatic mountains served as the ideal venue of an afternoon filled with warmth and fun.

Photo courtesy: The Wedding Salad

3. Athiya Shetty and the Bachchans at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
At Anushka and Abhishek’s wedding, the power of pink was evident. Athiya looked resplendent in her dusty rose lehenga. First family of Indian film, Amitabh, Jaya and Abhishek Bachchan were also color-coordinated to match the theme. The opulent spaces of the Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi epitomises luxury living and played worthy host to a glittering guest list.

Photo courtesy: Ram Bherwani Productions

4. Shraddha Kapoor at The Park Hyatt, Dubai
The urge to get into a celebratory mood and indulge in unabashed revelry is irresistible when it’s a close friend who is tying the knot. Shraddha Kapoor is a delight to see as she laughs in an off-white Sabyasachi creation at Eshanka and Harit’s wedding. The Dubai skyline comes alive in these after sunset shots of the Dubai Creek which lies beyond The Park Hyatt, Dubai. A gorgeous, glamorous evening.

Photo courtesy: Imprint Studio

5. Kamal Hassan Shruti Hassan and Akshara Hassan at Goa Marriott Resort &Spa
The vibe is relaxed and easy in Goa where you can send your worries into the wind and let the sound of the ocean soothe you. The Marriott Resort and Spa is a beautifully serene backdrop for what looks like a wild night at Saaksha and Karan’s wedding. Kamal Haasan shakes a leg while daughters Shruti and Akshara pout for the camera and have some fun with the bride.

Photo courtesy: Reels and Frames

6. Rohit Bal at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Oman
The ace designer and enfant terrible of Indian fashion – he’s known for his outré persona and his gorgeous Indian attire that pays homage to the bygone eras of Indian royalty. This is Rohit Bal having a good time at Ananya and Anish’s ‘Brunch and Cocktails’.
A bright day and the sprawling open spaces of the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Oman was all that this event needed to get its guests in the mood for love.

Photo courtesy: Colorblind Production

7. Sushmita Sen, Dia Mirza and more on Costa Cruises
Sana and Adel’s wedding was a properly star studded affair. A 4 day cruise through the Mediterranean treated guests to a montage of the shores of Barcelona, Marseilles and Cannes. A series of functions and events saw the likes of the most recognised names of Bollywood such as Sushmita Sen, Dia Mirza, Shilpa Shetty, Malaika Arora and more come together to celebrate their common friend’s big day.

Photo courtesy: Knotty Affair by Namit and Vipul

8. Manish Malhotra and Sophie Choudhary, Vienna
If you thought a palace wedding was the grandest way to celebrate one’s nuptials, Sonam and Navin’s lavish celebration may just raise the bar even higher. The duo booked not one, but two historic monuments – the Palais Ferstel and the Palais Liechtenstein – in the gorgeous city of Vienna making their big day an extravagant celebration. The architecture was the star but nearly outshone by many from the Indian glitterati including Manish Malhotra and Sophie Choudhary.

9. The Kapoors at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
When you’re part of one of the biggest Bollywood families ever, it is only fitting that a big, fat Indian wedding is held at the palatial wonder, the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. Look at the opulent interiors, where the Kapoor Khandaan celebrated the wedding, if you can tear your eyes away from Sonam Kapoor wearing Anamika Khanna and a bevy of beauties! Arjun Kapoor looks pretty pleased to be with his cousins too at Akshay and Aashita’s wedding which turned into a grand reunion for the Kapoor family.

10. Raveena Tandon, Preity Zinta and more, Udaipur
The city of lakes is magic by day and by night. The light turns this high-profile wedding into a fairytale. Covered by the local and international press, the flashlights went off to capture a galaxy of Bollywood stars. We caught Raveena Tandon and Preity Zinta catching up with each other as they celebrated Anu and Sanjay’s union. Others spotted at the wedding were Shilpa Shetty, Manish Malhotra and Sophie Choudhary.

The post 10 times we spotted Bollywood celebrities chilling at destination weddings appeared first on WeddingSutra Blog.

Zahra and Faisal’s pre-wedding video introduces the viewer to some of Dubai’s most iconic vistas including those of Madinat Jumeirah Resort. While the gorgeous property takes the aesthetical appeal of the video a notch higher, WeddingSutra Favorite Sunny Dhiman Photography and his team of photographers do a wonderful job at creating a romantic mood ideal for this duo’s photoshoot.

How We Met
Faisal and I met each other by sheer coincidence at a coffee shop in U.K. We were both there to grab a cup of coffee before we headed out to conquer the day ahead. At the counter, however, Faisal realized that he didn’t have enough money. I happened to be there and decided to help him out. Being the gentleman that he is, he wanted to return the favor. We exchanged numbers and that’s how it all started.

A few days later we had our first date and over time I realized that he was one of the most fun-loving and caring people I have ever known. I love that he believes in living life to the fullest and his passion for music, especially Bollywood and Punjabi left me fascinated. The more time, we spent with each other, the fonder our hearts grew, and soon, the next step was to get married.

Pre Wedding Shoot
Faisal and I were going to get married in Dubai because of which we were in the city. Considering the fact that so many people fly down only to get their couple shoot done here, we thought it would be best to make the most of the opportunity.

Sunny Dhiman and his team were our photographers and videographers (hyperlink to WSF Photographers’ landing page) and we couldn’t have been more grateful for having them by our side. They were always open to our ideas and suggestions and made an effort to make our vision a part of the concept of the shoot. We were keen on covering all the major attractions of the city. Despite the fact that we were working with very limited time on our hands, they managed to pull this off. Besides being a super accommodating bunch while ideating and conceptualizing, they were also a lot of fun to work with on the day of the shoot.

We shot at Downtown Dubai to get a view of the magnificent Burj Khalifa, Al-Qudra desert, Miracle Garden, City Walk, The Sunset Beach and even the most glorious Sheikh Zayed Mosque at Abu Dhabi. It was the most blissful experience of our lives.

We also spent some time at the stunning Madinat Jumeirah Resort. The beautifully designed property had no dearth of absolutely gorgeous locations to shoot at. While he did get a few shots on land, some of our favorites are the snippets where Faisal and I are on an abra (a traditional Arabic boat) as it makes it ways through the waterways that connect the entire resort.

Videography – Sunny Dhiman Photography

The post Zahra and Faisal’s Pre-Wedding Photoshoot against the Myriad Landscapes of Dubai appeared first on WeddingSutra Blog.

With modern architectural marvels rising out of the ancient deserts, traditional hospitality and modern expertise and unexplored vistas, the Middle East presents a treasury of destinations for weddings. Here, old values and warmth embrace new luxury and sophistication. Technology and futuristic facilities are softened by complex cultural aesthetic.

This captivating blend of cultures and eras offers no dearth of destinations and venues that will not just suit a couple’s needs but will fire their imaginations.

Here are a few of WeddingSutra’s picks.

Oman
The Sultanate of Oman enjoys a rich heritage and an embracing society. A jewel of the Arab world, the country has a distinctive identity that comes from both its opulent natural beauty and its warm, diverse population.

From traditional Bedouin hospitality to the ultimate luxury resorts, this desert kingdom offers wedding destinations rich in contrast and unexpected pleasures.

At the iconic Kempinski Hotel Muscat, authentic Arabian warmth meets contemporary European flair. The 1,100 sqm pillar-free banquet Muscat Ballroom accommodates up to 700 guests in absolute comfort and style. The property also offers 11 function rooms that feature natural daylight and a pleasant atmosphere.

Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, Sultanate of Oman is an oasis of rich experiences, and the relaxed setting of the hotel will elevate the mood at your celebration. Whether you choose the uninterrupted views of the Sea of Oman from the outdoor venue or the stunning Barr Al Jissah Ballroom with room for 850 guests hosted under the sparkling crystal chandeliers, the property offers one-of-a-kind spaces for your one-of-a-kind wedding.

The Chedi Muscat sits amidst an elegantly landscaped twenty-one-acre garden oasis and makes for a sublime venue for a lavish ceremony. Brides dreaming of the perfect backdrop to their dream day are sure to find their heart’s contentment among the property’s indoor and outdoor spaces. It is one of the choicest hotels in town.

Dubai
A confluence of cosmopolitan culture from diverse areas of the middle-east, Dubai is the playground of the sophisticated and perfect for a celebration leaning to modern luxury. If you’re looking to host a wedding in a grand, state-of-the-art venue, statement venue, this is the city that will give you the options.

Sophisticated, refined and luxurious, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre is a hidden haven that boasts of an idyllic verdant setting in a city location. The plush wedding resort features the Great Ballroom, Wasl Ballroom and Falcon Ballroom that offers an exceptional blend of sophisticated charm and understated luxury that will ensure your wedding truly stands out. With Events Hub Dubai, their dedicated team of professional wedding planners by your side, this hotel is an ideal wedding destination to begin your new journey at.

Palazzo Versace Dubai houses several impeccable sites that feature a mix of Versace’s Italian heritage and local Arabian culture. With a striking entrance, high ceilings, landscaped gardens, and unobstructed views of the Dubai Creek and skyline, the hotel is an embodiment of the Versace lifestyle and is a dream wedding destination. The lavishly decorated Gala Ballroom can comfortably accommodate up to 900 guests and is perfect for a grand celebration. For more intimate functions, the pre-function area with room for 215 people is ideal.

Madinat Jumeirah Resort is a property apt for those seeking both versatility and beauty at their wedding venue. The resort with its iconic waterways, well-appointed hotels and a wide array of locations, will fulfill every need a host could have. Whether it is a ceremony on their Fort Island – built in the middle of a lagoon, a grand soiree with room for 4,500 guests at the Madinat Arena or a party at the Joharah Ballroom which can be divided into seven smaller rooms, here nothing is impossible.

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray allows you the romance and tranquility of a private shore and alluring waters with the most beautiful gazebo overlooking the sunset. Every one of the hotel’s elegant spaces, whether it is Sapphire, Lapis Lazuli, Turquoise, Diamond or Opal, is equipped to serve as venues for all wedding functions.

The distinctive sail-shaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is more than just a stunning hotel, it is a symbol of modern Dubai and a wedding here is bound to be a grand, extravagant statement. Few venues across the globe rival the unique charms of the Burj Al Arab Terrace, the Al Falak Ballroom, the Marina Garden, Palm Garden, Tameen Majlis, Gold on 27 and more. This hotel is the ultimate choice for glamorous weddings!

Taj Dubai combines local, traditional and new age themes to create a space that is truly eclectic. The hotel’s largest space, the Opera Ballroom, holds up to 300 guests at maximum capacity so venues here are ideal for an intimate wedding.

Then there’s Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, known world over for its marine and water park experience in addition to its luxury hospitality. With numerous indoor and outdoor locations this place will ensure your wedding truly stands out. Asateer, the hotel’s flagship venue affords uninterrupted views of Dubai’s skyline and the Atlantis Ballroom is ideal for a large wedding party. The Royal Beach, Royal Terrace and Private Terraces work perfectly as spaces for more intimate functions.

Bahrain
The words ‘island wedding’ will conjure up images of the isles of the East but world travelers know that the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain, hides many lustrous secrets including an uncanny resemblance to those idylls. High on the list of favorite destinations for Indian weddings, Bahrain balances exotic charm with modern amenities.

For couples seeking a wedding steeped in timeless luxury, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain provides all of that and more. Whether it is a ceremony at the hotel’s beach-front lawn followed by a reception at the elegant Al Ghazal Ballroom with 450 guests in tow or a 250 people strong after-party at Al Khayma, each function here will be nothing short of a fairytale. The property also offers the Al Noor Ballroom and The Private Island with a capacity for 500 guests each.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is a soaring architectural statement. Set on an exclusive island, the hotel extends a sense of privacy, exclusivity and grandeur and offers venues that are perfect for all of your wedding occasions.

Abu Dhabi
Also referred to as the Garden City of the UAE, Abu Dhabi boasts a wealth of natural and architectural splendor. The city now hosts global cultural treasures like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and has made its name as a centre in the middle east for the arts. If you’re a couple for whom only a destination with unbound aesthetic appeal would do, look no further.

Located within a complex of five towers each one an exemplar of dramatic sculptural form and spectacular design, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is where contemporary design meets local tradition. The property houses unique venues that will leave your guests breathless. The spacious pre-function area ‘Under The Oculus’ shines with features handcrafted with Czech crystals while the Mezzoon Ballroom is another magnificent space of the hotel.

Amidst the Venetian-inspired hotel grounds, overlooking the canal and Grand Mosque, weddings at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal elevate romance to new heights. With dedicated planners by your side and luxurious venues to choose from this hotel is another great option to begin your new journey at.

If you’re dreaming of a palatial destination that spins enchantment then witness Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi to have all your wishes come true. At this hotel, each wedding is an exceptional affair and experiences are tailored to match the taste of the couple to create celebrations and memories that are filled with magic.

If you’re looking for something like no other, invite your guests to Yas Island for your wedding celebrations. Pristine beaches and the warmth of Emirati hospitality on an extraordinary island in the sparkling Arabian Gulf is all you need to have a remarkable wedding. With the option of seven luxurious hotels to choose from and a variety of activities to indulge them in, the destination is truly one-of-a-kind.

Fujairah
A combination of tranquil waters, serene desert and soaring mountains, Fujairah boasts topography unlike any other emirate. This is the emirate’s business and commercial hub and so it is well equipped to offer a wide variety of hotels for you to exchange your vows at.

An exceptional destination where Arabian hospitality meets luxury, InterContinental Fujairah Resort is situated on the shoreline of the exquisite Al Aqah Beach, beneath the spectacular backdrop of lofty mountains. At each one of the property’s indoor and outdoor venues as well as its ballroom, the hotel provides a range of delegate experiences that are rooted in the culture of the destination.

Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort is an idyllic luxury resort nestled in the hidden valleys of the majestic Al Hajar Mountains. An art inspired resort, its interior design is a juxtaposition of modern bohemian meets art-deco and is infused with arabesque touches. Its naturally lit indoor spaces, landscaped lawns and great outdoors are perfect for a fairytale wedding.

Ajman
Ajman may be one of smallest and least frequented emirates but it stands out for its low-key vibe and relaxed lifestyle. If you’re looking for the romance of the desert, the efficiency of a modern city but a quiet, intimate space, this city could be just what you want.

Conveniently located only 30 minutes away from Dubai, Fairmont Ajman lets your guests have the best of both worlds. It offers a stunning 700 square meter ballroom with floor to ceiling windows and abundant natural light as well as the Pearl Garden, a breathtaking beachfront venue that will give your wedding unparalleled grace and charm making this occasion truly timeless.

Doha
The capital city of Qatar, Doha, has everything from historic mosques and fascinating museums to Persian beaches, dunes and beautiful parks. It’s a multicultural city that brings the world together and extends an experience that is diverse and fulfilling.

The sprawling Grand Hyatt Doha with its ornate design and intuitive service captures your imagination and takes you on a journey that allows you to create innumerable unforgettable moments. Al Silia, the hotel’s ballroom, accommodates up to 100 guests at a time while the Rocca Poolside and The Gardens are suited for smaller gatherings. Their gracious staff, flexible spaces and convenient distance from the Hamad International Airport all make it a coveted location for you to say ‘I do’.

One of the finest addresses in Qatar, The St. Regis Doha, sets new standards when it comes to guests’ experiences. Whether it is their carefully curated menus or the well-appointed rooms and suites, each aspect is designed to indulge their guests in extravagance. Besides intimate spaces for smaller gatherings, the hotel also houses two large ballrooms. The Grand Ballroom with natural daylight and a terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf allows 1800 guests at a time while the impressive circular space of the Al Gassar Ballroom can accommodate up to 1400 guests.

Ras Al Khaimah
Doesn’t a wedding in a beautiful desert, against the backdrop of sand dunes surrounded by majestic mountains sound enticing? Well then, head down to Ras Al Khaimah, the city that has played host to several high profile Indian wedding celebrations, the most recent of which was the nuptials of Mohit Marwah planned by WeddingSutra Favourite – Milestone to Memories.

Located in a hidden haven Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah isn’t just an ideal destination but also an unforgettable getaway. You can choose the gorgeous surroundings of their stunning open-air garden and exchange your vows on lush lawns in the company of 150 of your closest friends and family, bring everyone together in the stylish setting of the Cabana or at a spectacular function at the Al Fayrouz Terrace.

Jordan
When people think of wedding destinations, Jordan doesn’t immediately come to mind and you can use that to your advantage. Here is a country that is steeped in history, a wealth of unique culture for all to see and home to sweeping desert landscapes and a warm, hospitable culture. Jordan’s capital, Amman, in particular, is a heady mix of the old and new.

Set atop the highest of Amman’s seven hills, Four Seasons Hotel Amman is a majestic luxury hotel that brings you a selection of flexible spaces. This property is equipped with a ballroom ideal for wedding receptions, beautiful pre-function areas and perfect choices for more intimate pre-wedding celebrations, dinners or parties.

InterContinental Jordan Hotel offers cosmopolitan amenities with a Middle Eastern flourish; from light-filled rooms, vibrant furnishings and sweeping architecture to international cuisine and magnificent views. With versatile venues and warm hospitality, this hotel will ensure that your wedding is nothing short of gorgeous and exotic.

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