Ritz Carlton Wedding in Orlando
September 21, 2013 | Ananda and Shamir
In a huge Brazilian/Indian love-fest, Ananda and Shamir tied the knot in an elegant ceremony at the newly renovated Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes in Orlando. With a host of top-notch vendors and an amazing bridal party to celebrate with us, there couldn’t have been more surprises for their guests!
I have to admit that I was a little intimidated when I first met this gorgeous couple – but, for lack of a better description, their warm smiles say it all! Ananda just absolutely lights up a room with her laughter and is so sincere and genuine. Greeting me with a huge hug, she gushed over the special surprises she had planned for the day – including her secret Sari that she would be changing in to during the reception. No one, not even her bridesmaids, had seen it and she couldn’t wait to see the look on Shamir’s mother’s face when she was introduced in it!
Dance, Dance!
And OMG surprises! Samba dancers, Bollywood dancers, Brazilian and Indian traditions, amazing food, and a Johnnie Walker Blue Label toast.
Their event was built in white and gold, with elegant details by Raining Roses and lighting by Kaleidoscope. A lavish arch was made for their ceremony and gold branches flanked the aisle with orchids, white roses and hydrangea. Ananda carried a bouquet of bold pink peonies.
Also, just as an aside (but I’d be so mad if I didn’t call them out) – a huge thanks to my amazing team that day, Rachel and Krista. Two days before their wedding, my grandmother passed away and I knew that I’d be working a full day and then driving 17 hours to Ohio directly after for her funeral. They supported me in every way that day and helped me focus on Ananda and Shamir – so for that, I’m truly grateful. It’s so important to me that my girls are not just my associates, but also my friends, and I adore them for stepping in and knowing what I needed, before I even knew!
Now! On to this amazing wedding!
Venue: Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes, Orlando
Event Designer: Heather Snively, Weddings Unique
Hair and Makeup: LeJeune Artistry
Florist: Raining Roses, Jesus Rodriguez
Cake Artist: Tina Mullett, The Ritz Carlton
Videographer: Jeffrey Stoner, Stoner Video
Reception DJ: Scott Messina, Messina Productions, Inc.
Ceremony Musicians: Beautiful Music
Bridal Salon: Solutions Bridal
Bridal Gown: Kenneth Pool
Bridal Shoes: Manolo Blahnik and Christian Louboutin
Bridesmaid Gowns: Bill Levkoff
Officiant: Sensational Ceremonies, Rev. Glynn Ferguson
Stationary: Papyrus
Rentals: AFR
Linens: Over the Top
Lighting: Kaleidoscope
Rings: Bay Hill Jeweler and Cartier
Samba Dancers: Phoebe’s Samba Team
Bollywood Dancers: T Skorman Entertainment
I loved Ananda’s first look with her dad! So many happy tears!
Biggest challenge of the day? Convincing Ananda and Shamir to go outside for photos. I said I’d get it done in less than 4 minutes before they’d agree.
Thanks guys :) I won’t hold it against you!
The reception ballroom was breathtaking like woah.
Amber uplighting, gold branch centerpieces with orchids and roses and individual menu’s personalized for each guest with their meal selections.
Loved incorporating Johnnie Walker Blue Label for the toasts! A great touch by Shamir!
The Bollywood dancers surprised the guests with an amazing performance!
Different styles of dance, plus swords! Everyone was dancing right along with them!
But little did everyone know, Ananda and her “glam squad” snuck out the back to prepare for her surprise entrance!
Patricia LeJeune transformed Ananda from a blushing bride to a Sari-wearing hottie in a matter of minutes!
Her grand re-entrance was a huge surprise to everyone, but especially Shamir’s mom! Her reaction was full of gasps and tears :)
A last surprise came from Ananda’s Brazilian roots when Samba dancers and drummers swarmed the reception!
