Nisha + Achal’s stunning wedding weekend at the Novi Sheraton Hotel was fabulous. Every detail was attended to, and every person danced, laughed and celebrated the beautiful couple. I was so happy to be their wedding cinematographer because there was never a lack of action, swirling color, and significant moments at the Novi Sheraton Hotel. I loved getting to capture them all. It was a full weekend with all the traditional Hindu aspects of wedding celebration. There was a sangeet the evening before the ceremony and grand reception.
Nisha + Achal's wedding reception at the Novi Sheraton Hotel.
photo credit: Ray Anthony Photography
The sangeet, ceremony and reception were all held at the Novi Sheraton Hotel in Detroit. I have filmed here before and it’s helpful being familiar with the setting. The accommodations made the weekend convenient for the 400 guests! Nisha + Achal chose a soft and subtle color palate of light pink and light mint along with creamy beige. It made for a gorgeous setting, and also highlighted the bright and sparkling traditional Indian dresses and robes of the guests.
Nisha + Achal's Hindu Wedding Trailer at the Novi Sheraton Hotel.
Wedding Cinematography: 97 Films
The sangeet got the weekend off to a colorful start. So many dances and songs were presented to Nisha + Achal. I was impressed with the age range of dancers; everyone seemed to have a wonderful night. The next morning, the bride and room readied themselves in gold-hued traditional dress, and both looked incredible. Nisha’s dress was a two-piece gold and blush-pink skirt and top with a beautiful veil, trimmed in subtle sparkles to match the detailing on her full skirt.
Nisha + Achal's baraat at the Novi Sheraton Hotel.
photo credit: Ray Anthony Photography
The baraat was a loud and fun celebration outside before the ceremony. Keeping with history, the baraat is the joining together of two families, and the groom rides in on a white mare. Achal upgraded and rode in a convertible through the crowd of happy dancers. He blew a horn so no one would miss his entrance.
The traditional ceremony went off without a hitch and I was able to film from multiple angles. The flowers, the soft draping fabric and the meaningful aspects of the ceremony made it special for Nisha + Achal as well as their parents and other family members. The ceremony stage went through a quick transformation after the ceremony and was set for the reception. The flowers were absolutely stunning. The soft pink and white roses made every picture and video look full and beautiful.
Nisha + Achal's Hindu wedding ceremony at the Novi Sheraton Hotel.
photo credit: Ray Anthony Photography
Nisha changed dresses for the reception, and Achal donned a handsome suit. They were introduced and danced for their smiling guests. A fun touch was the dance floor was full of fog and they looked as though they were dancing on the clouds. Then it got hot quick because fireworks were their grand finale before the wedding goers joined in with a lot of dancing.
Nisha + Achal's first dance at the Novi Sheraton Hotel.
photo credit: Ray Anthony Photography
Check out our Q+A with the beautiful bride, Nisha.
Tell us about the wedding.
The wedding was a two day Hindu, Gujarati wedding with a Sangeet night, Wedding morning, and Reception evening. We wanted a classic, timeless feel to our wedding. The colors chosen were in the pastel family- we wanted light pinks, mint green, cream beige- colors that would stand the test of time. It was imperative to us the style reflected in our choices was not only those our family liked, but colors that signified the beginning of our wedded life. Some would say it was a modern take on classic Indian aesthetics- I would say it was simple, elegant, and classic.
How did you and Achal meet?
We met on Coffee Meets Bagel, and had our first date on Valentine's Day in Cleveland, Ohio. The rest is history :)
How did Achal propose?
He proposed on a beautiful oceanside cliff, overlooking the Pacific Ocean in San Diego, California! He had told me it was his hospital's holiday party, and we were first going to this scenic location to take pictures with his co-fellows. Little did I know, there was a beautiful, handmade wooden platform stringed with pictures of our various travels. He had chosen to create this life long memory , by including pictures of other wonderful memories we've shared together. Best part- he had flown in my parents and sister, who were all hiding in the shrubs and bushes. It was one of those memories you hear about in romance novels, or chick flicks- it's amazing to have my very own amazing memory.
What was your favorite moment?
My favorite moment was my entrance during the wedding ceremony. Every girl has that one moment they dream about, and for me, this was always the moment I knew I would cherish. From my entrance music, to the way I entered, to who accompanied me during my entrance- every detail was orchestrated by me. This was an essential part of the wedding for me, and it went through beautifully.
Describe your wedding day.
Sheer happiness and overwhelming love from all of our friends and family. i was on cloud 9 the entire time, and would not have changed one thing.
What is one piece of advice that you could give brides-to-be?
Start early and plan! For any bride having a large wedding ( our's was approximately 400) - the earlier the better in terms of planning. In addition, do not be afraid to delegate tasks to friends or family you know will be able to handle the job efficiently and effectively. Weddings are full of love and relationships, but in order to assure your guests are having an amazing time, there's no way around it- plan ahead!
After all that- ENJOY! This is a once-in-a-lifetime event for you and your spouse- once the week of the wedding arrives- let things go and just appreciate the moment. It goes by faster than you can imagine- really take the time for yourself and your spouse to just appreciate all the people who are there to share this amazing experience with you both.
What's the #1 thing people should know about your wedding?
We felt an abundance of love throughout the weekend- it's an indescribable feeling that I hope everyone can experience at least once in their lifetime.
Planner
Photographer
Sangeet, Ceremony, and Reception Venue
DJ
Bride Dress Designer
Custom Made; Astha Narang, Well Groomed Designs, Inc.
Bride/Groom Suit Designer
Custom Made, Manyavar Mohey
Nisha + Achal's Hindu wedding film at the Novi Sheraton Hotel.
Wedding Cinematography: 97 Films
It was obvious that Nisha + Achal have wonderful families and friends who love and support them. It was a fun and beautiful wedding to film. Are you having a Hindu or Indian wedding in Detroit? We'd love to be there to capture your wedding celebration! Send me an email [katie@97films.com] or fill out the contact form and let’s chat about how AMAZING your wedding day will be and how I can capture every single detail!
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