We were excited to photograph this multi-cultural Indo-Egyptian fusion wedding. The wedding was at the San Mateo Marriot which offers several different facilities specific to Indian weddings. Religious ceremonies can be performed under the Mandap in their private outdoor courtyard. Neal and Caroline had two ceremonies, a Hindu Maharashtrian ceremony and a Christian ceremony. For the Hindu Maharashtrian ceremony, they both wore the Mundavalya( pearl forehead accessory) which is specific to Marathi weddings. Caroline also wore beautiful mogra(jasmin) flowers in her hair. Neal arrived in style in a mustang instead of a horse. During the ceremony, the groom and the bride are not supposed to look at each other as the Antarpat(silk cloth) ceremony takes place where a silk partition is placed between them. Only after the chanting of several specific mantras is the antarpat removed.
After the Indian ceremony, Caroline wore a gorgeous white bridal gown for her Christian ceremony. The delightful reception was at the adjacent Engage ballroom. Beautiful glimpses of color blue was seen throughout the reception. Blue shoes with rhinestone heels, blue floral center piece decorations, blue and white roses bridal bouquet with beautiful pearl wrapped stems. Speeches, dancing and great couple portrait shots ended the fun fusion wedding for the happy couple.