Talk about coming back with a bang: Was it only two years ago that couples across India were opting for intimate weddings, tying the knot in cosy villas and bungalows rented for the day, face masks tucked away in the pockets of their floaty lehengas? But now, the big fat Indian wedding is BACK. And it’s next level.
Today’s weddings make me think of Bollywood blockbusters. The locations are more exotic than ever: it’s not just Paris and Tuscany, it’s Budapest and Marrakech and Phuket. What’s an additional short flight when you’re creating a once-in-lifetime extravaganza? The sets are exquisite, the entertainment and talent comes from across the world, the costumes are elaborate and customised and no detail is too small to be thoughtfully considered for maximum impact. And importantly, everything must be captured for not only posterity but for immediate sharing and social media stardom. How it translates on (your phone) screen is increasingly the priority. How do you make it unforgettable, not only for the guests in attendance but for all those who chance upon it on their feeds? I’ve spent more time than I care to admit watching (and re-watching) a magnificent bridal entry (remember to have one camera on the groom for his reactions!) and on judging the sartorial choices of not only the couple, but their best friends.
So when it came time to creating this year’s Destination Wedding Guide, we turned to Manish Malhotra–who, after 25 years in the business still feels like the designer of the moment–to dress Neelam Gill, a current runway favourite, but also someone who, like today’s modern bride, is unafraid to experiment and have fun, but with a deep understanding of her body, her personal style, and aesthetics. We chose the iconic, chic, always buzzing Le Bristol hotel in Paris, where Vandana Mohan and her daughter Vedika of the Wedding Design Company brought in hundreds and hundreds of fresh, pink peonies–who needs anything else when you’re in the city of love on a beautiful summer’s day? It’s a sure fire hit.
