Rakhi and Brad’s wedding took the sensory experience to a new level in a fusion of cultures that was as full of vibrant energy as it was of thoughtfulness and hospitality.  Captured below with incredible beauty by Brinton Studios.

             

Rakhi and Brad welcomed their east coast and southern guests to a Colorado mountain experience at Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa.  On-site hiking, biking, zip-lining, horseback riding, and archery for the adventurous; yoga, spa treatments, and pond-side benches for the relaxed; restaurants and coffee shop for the hungry; the Ranch offered a diverse and authentic experience, an unexpected yet ideal setting for the weekend’s celebration.

       

Friday was spent amongst family and friends honoring timeless traditions including the Haldi which is a cleansing ceremony using a combination of turmeric, yogurt and oil that is intended to cleanse and purify the bride for her upcoming marriage.  The combination of spices are placed all over the bride by her elder family members.   This was followed by the Mehndi which is a henna ceremony in which women and men participate.  Brad and Rakhi were both adorned with elaborate designs as were many family and friends.

         

                            Some of the most memorable weddings are those that reflect the uniqueness of the bride and the groom while demonstrating their shared interests in a kind of sensory love story celebration.  A bride’s favorite color showing up in the invitations, the flowers, and the fabric.  A groom’s favorite dessert served at the table.  A couple’s favorite Jenga game assembled as a guestbook.

  

One of the most striking elements of sensory fusion was in the colorful food buffet (preceded by a traditional plated first course salad) featuring both classic hearty American fare and traditional savory Indian dishes.  Even the dessert table boasted an elegant wedding cake surrounded by authentic colorful Indian sweets.

    

Perhaps the most beautiful display of cultural fusion showed itself on the dance floor where intricate sparkling saris and soft modern cocktail dresses swirled together around a couple who celebrated their uniqueness and their love story very well.

  

Check out even more photos of this wedding at the Brinton Studios blog:  Devil’s Thumb Meets India with a Bang!

The awesome vendors who contributed to this wedding:

Event Design & Coordination:  JA Special Events | Photography:  Brinton Studios | Floral Design:  Plum Sage | Décor:  Décor n More | Venue:  Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa | DJ:  Soundmaster Entertainment | Indian Fare:  Star of India Restaurant