I had the pleasure to reunite with Anna’s family having shot her older sister, Hannah’s wedding a few years ago. Their day started out getting ready at what I think is the best hotel in DC, the Mandarin Oriental DC. In addition their customer service was the best I had experienced!
Usually at this time some of the cherry blossoms would have been blossoming, but we were a tad bit early, however, the first look outside in the courtyard due to the wind made for great video and a dramatic entrance! They braved the cold which made it worse with the wind and started some bridal party photos which continued into the National Gallery of Art.
Soon after the ceremony commenced in the hotel followed by the traditional Korean tea ceremony called the “Paebaek.” There’s a tradition where the parents of the couple throw dates onto a piece of cloth the bride and groom are holding to catch.
Typically many dates are caught, but surprisingly only one was caught which means they will be having one child. It’s just a tradition! However, Susanna and I always talk about how we wish we did a Paebaek for our wedding. We regret what could have been more memories to cherish and for all of our future children and grandchildren to see.
Shortly after, the reception commenced with the traditional elements of the first dance, a touching dance with David and his mother, toasts, cake, and a bouquet toss. Anna & David couldn’t have been any more sweeter to us and made for such a fun, relaxed, yet epic wedding day. See for yourself above and enjoy their beautiful union at the Mandarin Oriental DC Hotel!
If you want to check out another Korean-themed wedding, click here.
It was my first time shooting a District Winery DC Wedding. Due to high winds they moved the ceremony indoors, however, the light still shined well during the traditional Hindu ceremony.
However, the day first started with us for Vineetha & Nihar’s first look. Both their attire looked stunning and they were so excited to see each other for the first time dressed up. Vineetha was especially happy to see Nihar in his “cute” turban.
Soon after the first look, the traditional Baraat took place. For those who don’t know, think of the Baraat as one long entrance from the groom to see his new bride awaiting him.
Some Baraats have elephants, but Nihar rode on a horse along the streets next to District Winery and eventually made his way to Vineetha’s parents and family waiting for Nihar and his crew of dancers and family.
They performed some Indian mantras and traditions which you can see in the video above.
Their ceremony began beautifully and went off without a hitch, despite the many customs and traditions that took place under the Mandap canopy, such as the mantras, pouring of certain liquids, circling around the fire, some more bling, etc.
They both got changed in time for the reception and entered the reception with their bridal party with the parents dances shortly following. After, they performed their first dance to John Legend’s “All of Me” with a beautiful orchestrated dance. Throughout the rest of the night were the sweet and meaningful toasts from beloved ones and a casual night with dancing, followed by their epic sparklers exit.
I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day in March in Washington DC and for such an awesome couple as Vineetha & Nihar. Congrats again to you two!!
