Alisha and Ravi

Posted on: March 1, 2018

Photographer:
Digital Dream Studio

Mignon McLaughlin once said, “A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.” Alisha Basil and Ravi Shastri’s love story dates back to 2013 when they realized their feelings for each other after two years of friendship.

After dating for two years, Ravi popped the question to his sweetheart in May 2015. The setting was idyllic as Alisha and Ravi went for a walk at the Sanford Riverwalk, a place of signficance where Ravi had expressed his love for Alisha two years ago.

“Since it was our anniversary suspected he was going to propose. He took me to the same swing we were on two years ago, and told me that he loves me even more,” said Alisha. The couple’s close friends and family hiding nearby congratulated them with flowers.

The planning for their November 2017 wedding began after Alisha and her family moved to Florida from New York. They didn’t hire a wedding planner, but opted for a coordinator. Alisha’s Mom did all of the planning.

Alisha and Ravi selected Holy Trinity Hall in Maitland because they understood their traditions, customs, and religion and were flexible with vendors.

The couple’s wedding events took place over five days with a Maticoor/Pithi, Mehendi, ceremony, reception and Kangan. Few ceremonies were held at Alisha’s parents’ home, which became a mini-garden decorated with flowers, tea lights, and flowers in vases.

The wedding ceremony and reception were attended by 270 guests. The theme was pink and gold, coordinating with Alisha and Ravi’s outfits — red and gold. The couple didn’t want an over-the-top theme as the mandap was the focus.

The baarat arrived to the rhythm of dhol, while a band played instrumental Indian music. The bride and bridal party entered to Manwa Laage.

The reception was a glam affair with a teal, turquoise and gold glitter theme. Three different centerpieces included hydrangeas, peony, and roses. The reception had Bollywood, Indian music, and some Caribbean music. There were two signature cocktails — Ravi Ka Panna (aam panna drink) and The Sour Alisha (whiskey sour).

Alisha’s advice to couples is to follow a wedding planning timeline – have a binder with all contracts and estimates organized by wedding event and date, and a calendar of all payment and meeting dates.