Posted by Shira Savada, Real Weddings Editor
Sonya and Michael’s Pennsylvania wedding captured the blending of their cultures in a unique ceremony and reception filled with religious traditions. Held at the bride’s childhood home, the wedding fused the couple's Indian and Jewish backgrounds (and that of Muslim friends) in a warm and lively atmosphere. With help from Kendall Brown of Eclatante Event Design and Donna O'Brien of Beautiful Blooms the couple's wedding day was a gorgeous (and colorful) celebration of their love for each other and the fusion of their heritages.
Sonya and Michael were married under a Chuppah/Mandap, which was made to look like it was draped in sari fabric, and participated in the Jewish tradition of signing the Ketubah before the ceremony. They had separate, abbreviated versions of Jewish and Hindu wedding ceremonies so that each religion's beliefs and practices could be a focal point. During the Jewish ceremony, they chose to recite their vows in Hebrew, and Michael stomped on a glass for the conclusion. During the reception, they danced the Horah and were lifted on chairs over the guests’ heads.
Sonya and Michael wed under the Chuppah/Mandap.
All images courtesy of Sandor Welsh Photography.
For the Hindu ceremony Sonya really wanted to do the "7 steps" around the fire, but at the last minute her Priest decided it was too hazardous (because of her dress and the small space). In Judaism, the bride also circles the groom seven times, so the Priest performed another version of the rituals, by creating seven small piles of uncooked rice on the floor and had Michael recite Sanskrit verses while bending down to move Sonya’s foot from one rice pile to the next.
