Matt & Shalinee
“Just wanted to say a massive thank you for the AMAZING photos! We are so happy with them and so impressed with the really quick turnaround!’
Hindu Wedding & Reception | The Grove | Hertfordshire
A multicultural wedding, full of emotions and celebrations
Who says nothing interesting happens on a Monday? Well, the same can’t be said for Matt & Shalinee’s Hindu Wedding & Reception. Not only was their big day on said day, but it was also pretty special.
The Grove in Hertfordshire was the setting for their wedding, and what a beautiful venue it is. Arriving early, I took a few moments to wander around the immaculate grounds to scout out some locations for our couples portraits later in the day.
After familiarising myself with the layout of the venue, I made my way up to see Shalinee and Matt separately for getting ready shots. Both were in excited moods and couldn’t wait for the celebrations to begin.
Meanwhile down in reception, friends and family were arriving, chatting excitedly amongst one another. Being a Multicultural Wedding, many had not experienced a Hindu Wedding Ceremony before so this just added even more excitement.
A wild start
Once Matt joined the guests downstairs, the start of the celebrations began in full force. Cue loud music and dancing as the Jaan (Groom and his party) made their way in to the building before being greeted by Shalinee’s family.
Once the initial greeting ceremonies were completed, Matt made his way into the mandap and awaited his bride-to-be to make her entrance.
He didn’t have to wait long before Shalinee made her way down the aisle for the start of their Hindu Wedding.
It was a beautiful ceremony conducted by Kamal Pandey. This was actually the first time I had worked with him since he was the priest for my own wedding back in 2015! His ceremony certainly brought back a lot of great memories of the day. And alongside him was Shiv Gopal, providing the beautiful background ceremony music.
After plenty of tears, laughs and sheer joy, the ceremony concluded followed by the Koda Kodi (traditional Hindu post-wedding game).
The portraits and beyond
The benefit of arriving early in the morning meant we were able to maximise our time for couples portraits. I had scouted a few beautiful locations within The Grove’s grounds, and we calmly made our way round. Both were so natural in front of the camera, and you could tell our pre-wed session a few weeks earlier paid off!
The focus now turned to the reception with the venue being turned around. The couple and guests vacated after lunch to change and get ready to continue the celebrations. Both Matt & Shalinee looked incredible as we met for portraits in their reception outfits.
I always make it my aim to use different locations for wedding and reception outfits to bring a different vibe to both. I had found a beautiful library room in The Grove which we took full advantage of, which looked amazing in the early evening light.
After the drinks reception, guests made their way to their seats, awaiting the arrival of the newlyweds. And before long, they made their entrance and went straight into their first dance followed by the dance floor opening.
A wedding to remember
The rest of the evening was filled with plenary of laughs, a few tears but most importantly, plenty of celebrations.
Matt & Shalinee’s Hindu Wedding & Reception was definitely one to remember. I had a great time with them and their guests. Who knew you could have this much fun on a Monday?!
Here are some highlights from their amazing day:
Let’s chat
If you’ve enjoyed what you’ve seen, please explore more amazing weddings like this under ‘Stories‘. I would love to hear about your plans so if you’re after a Wedding Photographer, please Get In Touch!
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The Grove
The Grove is a five-star hotel, home to a luxurious spa, four restaurants and a championship golf course. All just 18 miles from London – and yet a world away.