While Mr. Dedhia’s success story might be what is known as an ‘outlier’, the Wedding Industry is definitely a latent market for aspiring filmmakers. Especially in New York, with Wedding Videographers charging anywhere between $1,000 to more than $10,000 for a wedding package.

However, if you don’t want your wedding videos to cost more than the wedding itself, here are some ideas to lower the cost, especially for your Sangeet, Mehndi or Puja -

Craigslist: This is usually kind of hit-and-miss, but you’re sure to get a few good responses with the right kind of listing. Post an ad with your requirements, and what kind of budget you’re looking at.

If you have your own video camera, you might be able to find a film student or someone who is looking to expand their portfolio, and will do the job virtually free. If you don’t own any camera equipment, mention in the ad that you’re looking for someone who has his or her own equipment.

Buy a Camera: Keeping in mind that the average professional videographer charges the equivalent of an Indie film budget, you might as well just buy your own camera and have a friend or a relative handle it during the wedding. This can actually turn out to be better than hiring someone, since a familiar person is likely to get more candid footage than a stranger.

Collage (a la Up in The Air): Remember how George Clooney’s sister asks all the wedding invitees to take pictures with a cardboard cutout of the couple, as a sort of wedding present? Why not ask around and see which of your guests has a camera or camera-phone, and encourage them to take footage at the wedding. You could request your guests to send in their videos or photographs, and create a collage as a gift to the lucky couple.

You could even ask your guests to send in photographs or recordings of the couple that they might already have, and put together a little something to screen at the reception!

Taking center stage at any haldi ceremony is the traditional paste that is smeared all over the bride and groom.  The paste is most often made with turmeric, rosewater, and sandalwood, but can also be made simply with turmeric and water. Brides and grooms often have separate haldi ceremonies where relatives and friends apply the haldi paste all over their face, arms and legs. The beautifying properties of turmeric are thought to cleanse and purify the skin, while the blessings from the invited relatives and friends bring luck to the soon-to-be-married couple.

In West Bengal and Bangladesh, the haldi ceremony is combined with the mehndi ritual and known as a gaye holud.  The gaye holud often takes place a day or two before the wedding and can range from a small family-only affair to a party as large as the actual wedding reception.  The bride-to-be, dressed in a simple yellow or green sari, is smeared with the traditional paste of turmeric and rosewater by close friends and family, all of whom then hand-feed the newly yellow-ed bride a variety of sweets and fruits. Afterwards mehndi is applied to the bride-to-be’s hands and feet.

Pakistani brides celebrate a ritual known as mayoon, a ceremony that, like a gaye holud, is often combined with the mehendi ritual and takes place a day or two before the wedding. The mayoon is usually an all-night affair, and only women are invited. With the boys out of the way, the women spend all night singing and dancing, and of course, beautifying the bride-to-be. Dressed in a traditional yellow-colored salwar kameez, the bride is blessed by elder members of the family while other relatives and friends apply the traditional paste called ubtaan, made of turmeric, sandalwood, and other aromatic oils, to her hands and face.

The Sikh tradition of vatna is usually separate from the traditional mehndi ceremony, and takes place a few days before the wedding. A combination of barley flour, turmeric, and mustard oil is smeared all over the bride and the groom, and afterwards, both are required to take a ritual bath. It is after vatna that the bride and groom are then confined to their respective homes until the day of the wedding—according to this tradition, known as maiya, the bride and groom are not allowed to leave their houses or even change their clothes until the big day. (Modern adjustments to this ritual include holding it the day before the wedding, making the confinement last only one night!)

The Parsi community has its own take on the haldi ceremony. Called supra nu murat, it usually takes place the day before the wedding.  Four married women each hold a supra, a small pot, containing paan, haldi, some dates, and a coconut. With traditional folk songs playing in the background, these four supras are exchanged seven times among the four women. A fifth woman sits in the center of the four women, holding a dry piece of turmeric in a brass khalbatta (small cup).  This ritual is supposed to bless the soon-to-be married couple. Afterwards, haldi paste is smeared all over the bride and groom by relatives and friends.

Stay.

Looking for a quant inn, don’t overlook the Beech Tree Inn.  A short walk to the town, this charming Victorian offers spacious rooms, private baths and a famous morning breakfast.  The blueberry pancakes won’t disappoint.  If yon don’t want to break the bank – this spot is for you!

If an inn isn’t your style, opt for the more modern Hyatt Regency Newport located on Goat Island.  The Hyatt has a nice gym, outdoor pool overlooking the water, and offers a lovely and generous breakfast.  It is a short walk into the center of town and the hotel provides shuttle service to and from.    

If the weekend is about feeling like a Vanderbilt, check out Oceancliff Hotel.  Its spectacular ocean views are unforgettable.  Another luxurious spot is the Castle Hill Inn & Resort.  This hotel, named in Travel & Leisure’s Top 500 Hotels in the World, is Relais and Chateaux awarded and is perfect for a truly luxurious get away.

Play.

Most visit Newport to play like the rich and famous.  This means visiting the mansions and soaking in the opulence.  If you’re short on time and can’t visit them all, be sure to stop at the Breakers, Rosecliff and the Marble House.  You can get tickets for mansion tours here.

In addition to the mansion visits, take a stroll down the famous Cliff Walk and drive along Ocean Drive. 

 Both include breathtaking views you don’t want to miss!  You can also rent a trike or a scooter and take an adventurous tour.  This website offers good information on the different types of vehicles available.

Eat.

In Newport you find a wide array of cuisine that will suit any pallet.

 Chowder is a must when visiting New England’s coast and in Newport you will find some of the best!  Black Pearl Restaurant and the Cooke House are just two spots that will hit the spot. 

 Fluke offers outstanding small American plates and has something for every diner.  If you are looking for a different menu, Fluke is a great place to share outstanding meals. 

 If you feel like a small bite before walking the scenic Cliff walk, Spiced Pearat the Chanler Hotel is perfect.  It has beautiful views and is CitySaheli’s top choice for lunch.  Opt to sit on the terrace where you overlook the beach, ocean and green hillside.

 A girl’s trip isn’t complete without the perfect girl’s brunch.  Brunch at the Castle Hill Inn and Resort won’t disappoint.  After enjoying a delicious meal, walk around the stunning grounds to chat and take in the views.  You will see beautiful boats sailing into Newport. 

Castle Hill is the quintessential place to spend hours, so plan ahead for a long lazy brunch.  You won’t want to leave.

Last but not least, Del’s Lemonade is a signature of Rhode Island. You will see Del’s trucks all over, do make sure to complete your trip by trying this refreshing lemonade!

Check out Rivera’s tips for your bridal beauty countdown and find out which treatments, diet and more is right for you. 

1. How early do you think a bride should start her skin care regimen?
 Ideally, a bride should begin three to four months before the big day, but it’s never too late to start. If you have serious skin conditions you want to improve such as hyperpigmentation (uneven skin tone, dark spots) or acne, you should start as soon as at least 6 months ahead of time.

As a professional in the wedding industry,  I’ve seen brides try to do too much too soon before the wedding and not enough in the two to three weeks prior.  Your last facial should be about two weeks before the big day. If you do too much right before the wedding, the end result can include a litany of problems which can increase stress and lead to more skin issues erupting (no pun intended).  Allow your skin to heal before your wedding day.   Planning ahead is the best advice I can give, and remember that taking care of your skin should be part of your daily routine!

2. What can brides do to ensure a glow for their wedding day?

Rest,  rest, and more rest,  and water, are essentials in any brides tool kit if she wants make sure she is glowing.  As I mentioned earlier, it’s important to have a consistent routine with your skin, which includes a daily beauty regimen.  These are the essential steps to beautiful skin:

1. Cleanse

2. Exfoliate

3. Moisturize

4. Protect with SPF  (preferably those that contain Zinc and titanium dioxide).

It’s also important that brides have the appropriate products for their specific skin needs. Pairing that with consistency will produce amazing results. Consult with a skin professional and get a customized skin evaluation.  A professional will guide you to set goals for your desired results for the allotted time frame.  

3. What foods do you recommend to help plump the skin and make it look vibrant?  Many South Asians are vegetarian, what foods would help their skin?

Foods high in antioxidants:  Deep green dark vegetables (spinach and kale) and fruits high in antioxidants including  blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and plums . Antioxidants protect your skin cells from free radical damage. Free radicals can be formed from sun exposure and can damage the membrane of skin cells, resulting in premature aging and wrinkles.  Other foods that are high in antioxidants include artichokes, beans (black, red, and pinto beans), prunes, and pecans.

Vitamin A is another vital component in your diet for skin health and beauty.  Eat low fat yogurt to help skin growth. 

Salmon (for the non vegetarian) and  walnuts, canola oil, flax seed and olive oil. These seemingly unrelated foods all deliver essential fatty acids omega 3 and 6 which help plump the skin.

Whole grains provide vitamins minerals that are especially great for the skin as well in addition to fiber which cleanses the system. Keep away from too much fat, sugar salt.

4. Many brides turn to peels or microdermabrasion to make sure they are bright and dewy for the big day.  Can you describe the differences between the two and what they are used for?

Here is the breakdown as I see it.

Microdermabrasion consists of a jet of micro crystals which are propelled through a small pencil like hollow across the skin surface. It removes damaged and dead cells with vacuum pressure. The results are great and very effective for reducing scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. It stimulates collagen production and cell turnover and the often results in smoother, healthier and younger looking skin.

Chemial peels have a wide spectrum of skin conditions they can treat.  They are applied directly to the skin and change the composition of the skin. Peels deliver a very controlled type of superficial tissue destruction removing the outer layer of the skin. The skin then repairs itself allowing new skin to emerge.  There are various levels of peels: superficial, mid depth and deep.   These peels in the right professional hands can deliver amazing improvements to the condition of the skin.   It takes approximate 7 to 10 days for the skin to go through the peeling and healing process (which depends on the intensity of the peel). Smoother more healthier skin is the result.   Your skin consultant will know the method of treatments that will best suit the condition you would like to treat. 

5. How many times should a bride be exfoliating her skin?

It depends on how sensitive your skin is but approximately once or twice a week is appropriate.   Be careful not to over exfoliate, since it can strip your skin of the natural oils it needs to protect the skin.

Where: 336 West 37th Street, Suite 600
When: 1-5 pm
Cash or check only.

Here is a glimpse of last night courtesy of Spotlight Studio.

CitySaheli spoke with Shawna Gohel, from Maharani Weddings, to get expert tips on creating a personal mandap that will make an impact. Here is Shawna’s advice for our brides.

South Asian weddings are all about color. When choosing your Mandap, always keep your color scheme in mind.  Whether you choose traditional colors like red and yellow, trendy colors like fuchsia and orange, or something totally unique, the way you translate this color choice into your mandap will set the stage for your ceremony – literally.

Also, your mandap doesn’t necessarily have to be covered from floor to ceiling in flowers to look elegant and full of life.  A great way to make a statement with your mandap is to introduce some colored fabric like this one:

Image by Megan Stark Photography.

This is a favorite mandap at Maharani HQ  because it infuses a fresh, modern, east meets west feel.  There is nothing typical about it, and the vibrant turquoise fabric is to die for!  For the complete wedding story click here.

Your mandap is only one part of your ceremony setting.  The details around the mandap are pivotal to creating a complete look for your ceremony.  Take a look at this one:

Images by Global Photography

We think that this is the perfect place to say “I do” because the chair swags and aisle runner pull this mandap together for a polished, and completely gorgeous look.  For more ceremony ideas from this wedding, click here.

If you are a bride having an indoor ceremony, not to fret.  Maharani has some great ideas for you.  Hanging kalira, fabric, combined with florals pull together this awesome mandap:

Images by Global Photography

This mandap does a great job of maximizing budget.  Instead of spreading the flowers around the mandap, they make a big, bold statement with the florals front and center. To see more of this mandap click here. If you style is more modern, and less traditional, a great idea is to substitute hanging candles for the kalira.  Combined with an unexpected color like eggplant, you set the stage for a memorable mandap!

The key to making your mandap unique is y-o-u! Below are some questions to get the creative side of your mind going and to help you determine your personal style:

1. Which furniture store more suits your style….Pottery Barn or Ligne Roset?
2.  What shape do you prefer….round or square?
3. When decorating your home, what is your favorite color?

If you said Pottery Barn, Round, and picked a color other than white, you are definitely going to want a romantic style mandap.  Think lush flowers, charming details, and traditional colors.  If you said Ligne Roset, Square and white you are a modern bride who should look at clean mandaps with minimalist style.

Just remember, designing a mandap that suits you and your groom may take time, creativity and a little thinking outside the box!

Bhumika and Shyamal Shodhan started their careers in fashion in 2000, in Ahmedabad, India. Shortly after, the two worked together and established the label SHYAMAL & BHUMIKA. Since then the designers have been nominated for ‘Best Indian Wear’ at the Marie Claire India Fashion Awards 2008 in New Delhi and have developed a huge following.  To find out more about the designers and their lines, check out CitySaheli’s article Shyamal & Bhumika – Ahmedabad and Beyond. 

ShaadiStudio is a full time resource center catering to the South Asian community.  The space brings together a diverse group of wedding specialists including top of the line event planners, dress designers, makeup artists, djs, photographers, and caterers.  The studio is a space that demonstrates the signature elements of a lavish South Asian wedding by bringing together experts in the field.

To top off the evening, BridalGal is offering complimentary makeovers to give you a complete look. And if you can’t make it to Thursday’s festivities, they will continue on Saturday, April 24th with a trunk show at Shaadi Studio. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to update your wardrobe, stock up for wedding season and make a statement at your next event. 

A Night of Glitz & Glam with Shyamal & Bhumika

When: Thursday, April 22 – 6pm to 10pm

Where: Shaadi Studio, 336 West 37th Street, Suite 600

RSVP at events@citysaheli.com and receive up to 15% off your purchase.

CitySaheli met with Deborah Lauren, owner of City Sweets & Confections, who specializes in South Asian inspired cakes by using original flavors and designs with an ethnic flair.  Deborah loves to work with Indian spices and has created one of a kind masterpieces for brides all over the world.  CitySaheli spoke with Deborah about her love for creating custom cakes and asked her to share some tips with our brides.

Deborah has been designing and creating magnificent wedding cakes for more than 10 years.  She is a graphic designer who translated her passion for the arts into cake making and designing.  Once she started designing cakes, she just couldn’t go back.

Deborah’s Indian great-grandfather was a significant inspiration in her life and is one reason she ventured into Indian inspired cakes.  Deborah offers the traditional flavors as well as chai tea, chocolate chili spice, masala spice, cardamom, pistachio, rose, and chocolate curry (just to name a few!).  She also can make anything gluten free, egg free and vegan. 

You may be wondering, do these flavors taste as good as they sound?  Well, yes! CitySaheli sampled many of Deborah’s specialties, and was amazed by the delicious yet unique taste of each (including the chai tea, rose and cardamom).  In addition to wedding cakes, CitySweets makes cupcakes and favor sized treats, making these flavors a great addition to any special event. 

Here’s a sample of just a few of Deborah’s outstanding designs.

 
While CitySaheli met with Deborah, we asked her important questions for today’s bride.  Here’s what she had to say.

What are the top 3 qualities to look for when searching for your cake designer?

1. Hire a cake designer with a proven track record.  Word of mouth is fine from someone who has used them, not just heard of them.  A reputable well know wedding website with reviews is also a good way to go.

2. Hire someone who makes you feel comfortable and you get along with.  If you like each other, you can be certain the designer is going to want to do a fabulous job for you and go the extra mile.

3. An absolute must: a designer who offers a cake tasting.  Many cakes do not taste as good as they look.  This is very important.  You don’t want to be unpleasantly surprised on your wedding day.  Many times a cake is included in the package the venue offers.  Insist on a tasting.  Not only is it fun, but you’ll know what you’re getting!

How important is the wedding cake a bride chooses?

I always say there are three things every guests remember after wedding. 1. The Bride; 2. The Cake; and then 3. The Groom.  Sorry grooms.

What tips can you offer to bride’s or bridal party members looking to do it themselves?

Keep it simple, don’t get too fancy.  Choose a simple flavor and the best ingredients possible.  Also, don’t over bake.  It’s always better to under-bake than over-bake a cake.  Finally, timing is really important.  Be sure not to set the cake out too early.

To contact Deborah check out the City Sweets website.

CitySaheli interviewed the international photographer to get an inside look at what inspires him and what he recommends looking for to select the perfect photographer.

CitySaheli:  Can you describe some of you inspirations?
Tomko:  I have always thought of inspiration as the place where art begins and I am inspired by many things everyday. Energy inspires whether it be a bride and groom, dance music or just generally watching people come together to celebrate and have a good time.  The passion that fuels my creativity can also be very inspiring.

CitySaheli:  What inspired you to go into photography and specifically wedding photography?
Tomko:  I have always had a great love and appreciation for visual arts.  Even when I was a child I always enjoyed visiting museums, drawing and of course taking pictures.  I love to capture emotions in the medium of photography, so that organically led me to wedding photography.  As we all know emotions can run high at a wedding!

CitySaheli:  How would you describe your working style? And your photography style?
Tomko:  My working style is very organized yet creative.  I understand the importance of getting all the traditional “parent pleasers” shots but when a bride and groom hire me they are looking for that little bit of edge in their photos.  I also think that a fun, upbeat personality and good sense of humor allow the clients to feel relaxed and at ease.   The end result is awesome relaxed “candid” images instead of stiff, boring poses.  As far as my photography style, I am not a photo journalist, which means and I don’t stick to one style of photography.  I adapt my style to whatever the bride and groom want and what works best in the given situation. 

CitySaheli:  How many South Asian/ South Asian fusion weddings have you shot, how have they been different from other weddings?
Tomko:  I have photographed approximately 20 South Asian/South Asian fusion weddings.  The amazing décor, bright colors and different traditions make photographing a South Asian wedding an awe inspiring experience.  I love the fact that even in 2010 the traditions and ceremonies of South Asian weddings and still alive and well.  Talk about inspiring!

CitySaheli:  If you were looking for a wedding photographer, what questions would you absolutely ask potential photographers?
Tomko:  These days a lot of people with a digital cameras and computers call themselves a photographer.  The first thing I would want to know from any potential photographer is how many years of experience they have in the industry.  I would also want to know if the photographer is going to be shooting the entire wedding.  For example, some photographers will only shoot eight hours and then charge overtime fees for anything beyond the scheduled eight hours.  You also want to make sure your photography package includes albums for you and your family, proofs and post production work (i.e. retouching, color correction etc.)  It is usually best that the photographer who attended the wedding conduct the post production work as he is familiar with the true to life colors of the decor. 

CitySaheli:  Can you share with us some of your favorite memories you have captured at a wedding?
Tomko:  One of my favorite memories is from a wedding I photographed in Goa, India.  The bride was telling me about her elderly grandfather.  She mentioned that he was planning to attend the wedding even though he had been ill lately.  As soon as he arrived we decided to take some quick shots right before the ceremonies were about to begin.  The grandfather sat down in a chair and the bride kneeled down behind him and draped her bangle arms and mehendi covered hands around him.  At that very moment the grandfather’s eyes filled up with tears and I was able to capture an image that conveyed love, pride and pure happiness like I have never seen before. 

CitySaheli:  Can you tell us about the advantages of producing pictures in black and white versus color?
Tomko:  I wouldn’t say that there are any distinct advantages to shooting in black and white versus color, it all just depends on how you use the two styles.  I like to use black and white photography to capture candid moments because it gives the images an artistic feel.  I like producing color images when I am shooting the actual wedding ceremony.  A lot of works goes into creating a theme for a wedding and color is a big part of that, I like to make sure to capture that. 

CitySaheli:  How many photographers do you recommend having at a wedding?
Tomko:  I usually recommend two to three photographers, but it really depends on the size of your wedding.  When selecting a photography team it’s all about quality not quantity.

CitySaheli:  Do you have any tips for our readers to ensure the best lighting for photography?
Tomko:  Typically natural light is the most flattering.  In the world of photography there is something called “sweet light” which is natural light at either sunrise or sunset when the sun is at it lowest point in the horizon.  At this time of day, the sun shines a golden light that highlights the facial features and gives your skin a glow.  When natural light is not possible, a video light as opposed to a flash makes the facial features pop and adds incredible dimension to the images.

To contact Gerard Tomko, please visit www.gerardtomko.com

CitySaheli has come up with a handy acronym to ensure wedding guest perfection – GET DOWN!  Listed below are some tried and true suggestions – from selecting an appropriate wedding gift to deciding what you should wear to the big day.  So, without further ado, some tips to help you GET DOWN!

G – The Gift
If a couple has a registry, don’t hesitate to select items from that list; however, if nothing suits your budget or catches your fancy, a gift of cash is always a great option.  The bride and groom will appreciate a check or bill neatly tucked into their card, and this is perfectly acceptable (and sometimes preferred) at South Asian weddings.  If you know the bride well, we encourage you to fight the urge to get her a gift because of your close relationship.   If you can find something that is perfect for the couple – great.  If not, you had the bridal shower and the bachelorette party to make her feel special, this time be practical.  .

Make the wedding gift about the couple.  Try a gift certificate to their favorite restaurant.  CitySaheli also likes the idea of gifting cute house wares and accents, found during trips to India.  Check out places like Good Earth

If you don’t have a trip planned this year, you can peruse a variety of online stores in India from your desk. We like Tresorie and Shopper’s Stop.

E – Your Energy
South Asian weddings are full of life!  We cannot overstate that an aura of jubilance separates a great guest from just another guest. If you are genuinely enthused for the union of the two people you are celebrating, you will dance, you will sing and you will generally make very merry.  South Asian weddings are typically very large, and the bride and groom have rounds to make, hands to shake, and first dances to dance, so they can’t entertain you in addition to the myriad tasks required of them on their big day.  Your ability to mix, mingle, and generally keep the mood light and joyous will add to the tapestry of memories they create. It helps if you figure prominently in the photos and video wearing a big smile and showcasing coordinated dance moves.

T – The Trip
If you’re attending an out-of-town wedding, you’ll want to book a hotel room well in advance. If you are traveling, organize a group of friends to share rooms with or stay at the same hotel as – this can ease transportation and non-wedding related event planning.  Make the most of the trip. Use it as an opportunity to reconnect with your spouse, take a getaway with a significant other, or reunite with old friends.  While it’s not your big day, it doesn’t mean you can’t make a few great memories of your own as you rejoice in the good fortune of the new couple.

D- Your Date
If you’re married or seeing someone seriously, this is less of an issue, but if you’re a single gal we urge you to choose your date carefully – if you are invited to attend with a date.  Weddings can be a time to spend with close friends and family, and sometimes can be emotional.  The last thing you want to do is bring someone you aren’t seeing seriously to the wedding of a family member or close friend.  You’ll end up having to baby-sit your date and miss out on many of the fun, carefree aspects of attending someone else’s wedding.

Open Bar+Married Friends=Date Disaster 
Factor yourself out of this equation and opt for a close friend or go solo.  Weddings provide an opportunity to meet singles outside your circle. Why bring a random date when you could be dancing with night away with your charming future beau?

O – Select Options Early
Be courteous.  RSVP ASAP.  Decide early who you will invite as your date and give them enough time to take time off and rent a tux if needed.  If you’re asked to choose a meal – asking your date what he’d like for his meal instead of choosing your favorite option is considerate – be considerate!
Make sure you log into the registry early, so you have options for the gift. If you are going off the registry, think about the new couple and be judicious in picking a gift that best suits their needs and your budget.  Don’t leave your gift giving till the last minute.
Book the car/plane/train and hotel as far in advance as you can.  Be sure to take time off if need be. Your boss will appreciate the heads up and so will your co-workers.

W – What to Wear
Now, choosing your wardrobe is critical to any woman attending any wedding. We recommend steering clear of white, red or black. Wear something colorful and you will fit right in!  Typically, South Asian weddings are more formal and colorful than a traditional western affair.  For non-Indian weddings, CitySaheli also suggests daring to don indo-fusion. You will stand out as exotic and beautiful in addition to adding ethnic flair.  For Fall and Winter weddings, we suggest colors like camel and olive in heavier fabrics.  For Spring, try lighter pinks, oranges and even soft golds.  Keep in mind, weddings vary in level of ostentation; make sure to check with the bride or bridesmaids if you aren’t sure of the finery expected of invitees.

N – Their Night
And, we know this is obvious, but remember that this is their big night.  Above and beyond how much fun you have, you’re invited to bear witness to a newly formed family.  Show your support by smiling for photos, dancing with gusto, and bring down the house!
JUST GET DOWN..GET DOWN….