Yuval was sipping a whiskey, waiting to meet Arahna for the first time. While Arahna was shy and nervous. He held her hand quite naturally, maybe too quickly and calmed her. Arahna felt an instant connection and comfort. They bonded over the love for nature, people, yoga and adventure. After two years of a long-distance relationship, she moved from Johannesburg to the sunny beaches of Durban and now own ISHK, a creative business, together.
As per tradition, the Haldi ceremony was held separately for the bride and groom. Arahna wore a midi lehenga custom made from a silk saree she bought. She had a ball with her friends and family at the sunny, marigold festooned festivities. Yuval’s Haldi was held a few days later in an intimate, poolside function at his home. The event had a live “roti and chai” station, with quirky props and a beautiful Jaipur inspired backdrop.
Sangeet has a Rajasthani Mela vibe; a massive printed backdrop, a custom-made ‘street’ featuring food and dessert carts serving everything from parathas to gelato and jalebi, and much more. Arahna’s dad took charge of this event and set the bar high. Yuval wore a clean-cut black kurta and trousers with a mustard vest while Arahna wore a gorgeous pink lehenga with parts of her mother’s wedding saree sewn into the fabric.
The Mehendi ceremony was an intimate affair with family and close friends of the bride who got into a warm huddle at the cozy Gowrie Farm. They were plied with hookahs, gourmet cheese and fine wine as they sat around the fire while Mehendi artist, Narusha, carved her magic.
The Jamboree is held the night before the wedding. Natural elements of the midland flora were enhanced with streamers and ribbons, fairy lights and a wonderful enchanting atmosphere. They had fire pits at the venue and prepared the food on the fires, right in front of the guests. They also embraced the South African culture with a traditional Potjie dish, a delicious stew cooked on an open fire. Arahna’s lehenga was unusual and playful, with tassels and pompoms, while Yuval kept it classic in an all-black ensemble.
The wedding was a Boho-Indie-Fusion aesthetic. Set in the stunning mountains of the Kwa-Zulu Natal Midlands, guests were welcomed by the strains of Milton’s guitar, strumming English and Indian music. There was Bombay Crush, Masala Tea and desi snacks, served on a vintage Indian cart set up under a charming tree. The floral mandap with its overhanging tassels in white and pink looked magical against the backdrop of the lake.
The sound of sacred chanting filled the air and time stood still as a wave of spirituality and serenity suffused the venue, the couple and their loved ones. While Arahna’s unique lehenga imbibed the patterns and colors of their vibrant invitations and décor, Yuval’s ensemble was reminiscent of Rajput kings, combining the elegance of flared anarkalis, turban, and necklaces with quirky tribal embellishments.
The reception was set in a modern venue. It had hanging florals, a suspended mosaic cake, and a mosaic dance floor as the standout décor pieces. They also had the most fun open-air photo station; a bohemian floral backdrop with quirky Indian photo props.
Advice for Future Couples:” Play with event stationery and props to convey your personality. Besides being affordable, they are so original. Make sure you are on the same page with your vendors regarding planning and start at least 3 months prior to your wedding. And lastly, when things go wrong, don’t worry about it. Remember, only you know what you have planned, not your guests! Soak in everything, and enjoy your day.”
