Hosting an Indian wedding in South Africa is always a spectacular experience, and I had the privilege of being part of one that left an indelible mark on everyone. We had the honor of coordinating and decorating a grand three-day affair for Meera and Aarav at the stunning Umhlanga Rocks venue in Durban, in November 2022.
Initially, Meera and Aarav considered a Cape Town wedding, but the allure of Umhlanga’s scenic beauty, combined with its rich Indian heritage, made it the perfect choice. After months of planning, the wedding celebrations began with a lavish Welcome Dinner on the 25th of November at the Umhlanga Lighthouse Lodge. This informal gathering brought together guests from all over the world, with a rooftop barbecue and live music setting the mood. A whiskey and cigar lounge kept the evening sophisticated, while a DJ ensured that the dance floor was packed until the early hours of the morning.
The next day’s festivities were a vibrant Pool and Mehendi party that began at noon. The event was full of energy and color, with bold, traditional Indian hues adorning the venue. We set up multiple food stations offering everything from spicy street food to indulgent desserts. Guests enjoyed the warm Durban sun by the pool while the women got their hands decorated with intricate Mehendi designs. A caricature artist added a playful touch, and the music kept the party alive throughout the afternoon.
As the sun set, we transformed the venue for a magical dinner on the beach. Thousands of fairy lights sparkled above as the couple and their guests dined under the stars. We had arranged luxurious seating areas and beautifully decorated dining tables along the shore, creating an intimate yet grand setting. The gentle sound of waves crashing added to the romance of the evening, and it was clear that this wedding was going to be remembered for years to come.
On the final day, we began the grand setup for the traditional Hindu wedding. The Mandap was placed on the oceanfront, framed by stunning floral arrangements that matched the lush coastal landscape. The groom, Aarav, made his grand Baraat entrance on a beautifully decorated horse, surrounded by his family and friends who danced with joyous energy. The bride, Meera, looked radiant in her custom-made Anita Dongre lehenga as she made her entrance, leaving everyone in awe.
The ceremony was a spiritual and heartfelt occasion, with the sounds of the sea as the backdrop. While the couple exchanged vows, guests enjoyed a delightful afternoon tea with a selection of Indian snacks. Once the ceremony concluded, we quickly transformed the venue for the evening’s Gala Dinner and Sangeet, held at the Umhlanga Sands Ballroom.
The reception was a vision of elegance. We designed the wedding décor using white and gold tones with delicate floral centerpieces and chic crystal chandeliers. The couple made a dramatic entrance, welcomed by a dazzling fireworks display. As the night progressed, the Sangeet kicked off with electrifying performances from family members and friends. The dance floor was packed until the early hours, creating an unforgettable night.
Being part of Meera and Aarav’s wedding was an incredible experience. The trust they placed in us, combined with our commitment to every detail, made the event a true masterpiece. The joy in their eyes as they took in the decor and the seamless flow of events was the ultimate reward for all our hard work. We’re honored to have contributed to such a beautiful celebration and know that this Indian wedding in South Africa will be talked about for years to come.
