Today’s tale is a testimony on the power of vision, collaboration, “brotherly love” and beautiful photography by Philadelphia-based Michael Kent. If there’s one thing I love more than men in kilts, it’s beautiful brides in lehangas next to men in kilts. However this passionate bride stands out as she takes D-I-Y pride to the ultimate level…or hem. So pull up a chair, grab a latte and soak up some inspiration in today’s real wedding.
Setting: Philadelphia, PA
Heroine/ Hero: Bengali American Bride – Sumanta and her Scottish beau – Stuart.
Signature Colors: Tangerine and Iris
Photo: Michael Kent Photography
Scene #1: BEFORE “I DO”
I meant what I said earlier, Sumanta and Stuart (aka “Stu”) pulled off a gorgeous wedding without the usual wedding glam squad of event planners, dress designers or 13-piece music bands on their front lines. The white dress, in fact was made by the bride, but we’ll get to that later.
The couple’s vibrant color scheme translated from Sumanta’s carefully crafted mood board to the event details such as the bridal party’s attire.
Stu’s entourage looks so handsome. Coming up very shortly, they’ll transform into tartan wearin’ groomsmen.
Scene #2: “I DO”
The setting for the wedding is one of Philly’s hot spots for art: The Trust Venue (formerly known as F.U.E.L Collection) which is a modern gallery space that showcases multi-faceted collaborations of all things art. The focal point of their vision is to aid the launch of successful artistic careers by creating a truly unique and singular art display forum. It’s also an amazing space for hip events, complete with clean palettes for walls, high-ceiling chandeliers and great lighting.
The couple made their vows in a traditional Bengali wedding ceremony, in front of over 250 guests. And now, for a change of scenery and attire…
Scene #3: WARDROBE CHANGE
Stu’s custom made traditional Scottish attire was obtained in Edinburgh, Scotland and included the jacket, shirt, pleated kilt, knee-length socks and leather purse or “sporran.” Sumanta’s modern silhouette number on the other was beautifully designed and executed by her.
“I am a designer and my passion is in dresses so it was an amazing learning experience.” Sumanta said, “I was hemming the dress up until the day before the wedding, so my time management was questionable down to the last day!” Time management may have been questionable, but who cares? She looked radiant in her gown and makeup (done by her sister), and that’s all that matters.
Scene #4: AFTER “I DO”
“Having the support of my loved ones was really helpful during the planning process. So was the vodka.”
-Sumanta, The Bride-
I know Sumanta’s going to kill me for selecting that excerpt for her quote, but I just had to. “Brevity is the soul of wit and the source of humor,” they say…and I couldn’t stop laughing at her comments because of how spot on they were. Wedding planning can be stressful, but you need a little humor to balance it out, as well as as supportive fiance who’s able to help coordinate and plan portions of the wedding, while living remotely at the time. Sumanta was also fortunate to have “an army of bridesmaids, an extremely efficient sister” and her mother, who was “absolutely crucial to the whole process.”
So there you have it – a romantic reception with decadent Indian-inspired desserts, carrot cake, candy buffet, the support of close family and of course…men in kilts: All wonderful ingredients for a wedding day to remember.
Thank you so much to the lovely couple for sharing their story. Congrats S & S! And my sincere gratitude to Michael Kent for sharing these photos.
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{CREDITS: Photography by Michael Kent; Ceremony & Reception venue at The Trust Venue; Catering by Catering By Design;Make up by Bride’s sister; Bridal gown & Stationery by Bride}
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reminds me of back home (scotland) beautiful wedding :)
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