While planning my wedding last year, I had a very short list of photographers who’s portfolios I just couldn’t stop drooling over. Ross Oscar Knight is definitely high up on that list, and without a doubt, is “knighted” into the “Vendor J’Adore” List….no pun intended.
Based out of Atlanta, his photo-journalistic portfolio has him in demand domestically and internationally. Always with an eye for intimate detail in every frame, as well as a very professional rapport on the phone (which speaks volumes for discerning brides out there), I am honored to showcase another fusion wedding that dares to not only dream outside the box but in colors that entice the soul.
Setting: A Beach side resort in Naples, Florida.
Characters: Indian/American bride – Ritu and her American beau – Jordan.
SCENE 1: LEHENGAS, LOUNGES n’ LOVE
A little back story about Ritu and Jordan’s nuptials: Originally planned for September of 2009 in Washington D.C, the couple made last minute changes of plans and moved the event up by a few months, to Naples. They made these changes to be closer to the bride’s ailing mother in Florida. Considering the short notice they had for their guests (from out of state and country), take a look at the next spread as confirmation of the triumph of a strong family support system, as well as an even stronger sense of style.
Scene 2: THE CEREMONY
In spite of a rained out outdoor ceremony, Ritu, Jordan and their 115 guests were able to celebrate their union over three days with festive style and beauty. It commenced on Thursday with a traditional Indian music party (Sangeet), and culminated with a fusion style reception on Saturday.
These two images above are definitely my favorite.
Sometimes brides feel pressured to incorporate EVERY tradition from their respective cultures in order to authenticate their wedding. Although this may be a great idea in theory, in execution, it can actually be quite challenging and less personal. Ritu’s response to their incorporation of culture focused more on personal connection, rather than obligation.
“We wanted to scrap some of the wedding tradition that we did not feel connected to or felt uncomfortable doing.” Ritu Says, “And we both wanted everything to be colorful in the traditional Indian wedding sense — reds, yellows, oranges — but also traditional in the formal American wedding sense.”
Scene 3: A “RITZ”Y RECEPTION
Challenge: Celebrating a intimate connection with family and friends, in a way that’s traditional, stylish and most of all: Personal.
How they Did it? : 1. Both the Bride and Groom alternated between traditional Indian & Western Attire. 2. Personalization of signature drinks. 4. Incorporating “Western” appetizers and desserts & an Indian Dinner menu. 5. Balancing the act of having a closer wedding to family, while offering a three-day celebration for out of town guests. 6. Incorporating personal connections in the traditional ceremony. 7. Fusion of reception music to accommodate both western and Hindi styles.
Ritu & Jordan’s wedding is a testament to the triumph and power of strong family support, creative event planning, love of lehengas and unique sense of style. Only Ross could have captured their day so effortlessly. A huge thank you to Ross Oscar Knight for providing all the images, and a heart felt congrats to R + J!
Have a spicy Thursday.
Fri
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{CREDITS: Photography by Ross Oscar Knight Photography; Bride’s Saffron/Orange Sari from store in India; Bride’s Hair by Brad Peterson of Salon 28; Bride’s Make-up by Holly Pergola; Flower girl’s green dress [Lehenga] by Libaas Designs in Bhopal, India; Male wedding ring[left] by I. Gorman jewelers; Bride’s wedding ring by Sam Ofer; Groom’s Suit [Sherwani] & Shoes by Jayesh at Deen’s Fashions; Event Planning by Nicola Long & Ceremony- The Ritz Carlton Naples; Bride’s Gold Gown [Lehenga] by Gitangali Singh of Khubsoorat Collection; Groom’s Tux by Astor & Black; Flowers by Scott Crowley of The Ritz Carlton Naples; Cake & Catering by Chef Ramesh of The Ritz Carlton Naples}
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Love it! absolutely gorgeous! I love the way they kept the really iconic western bridal elements (tiered light cake and ivory dress but in an Indian style)
I’m so thankful to have found this blog, since my wedding will be mixed (He’s British born and raised but from a Punjabi, Sikh family, whilst I’m British, white and Atheist.) Luckily his parent’s are really liberal and seem to love me and are even impatient for us to get married, but they would like for us to include some Sikh ceremonies and Indian traditions.
So Beautiful. Fri, I can’t say how excited I am to have found this blog.
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