Location: Healdsburg, California, USA
Setting: Hotel
Wedding season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
The number of guests: 143
Wedding theme/style: Modern, chic, Indian & Western.
Michael Robert and Pallavi’s love story began unexpectedly in San Francisco at a Fleet Week party on a rooftop in Russian Hill. Not long before that, Pallavi relocated from NYC to San Francisco to join a startup. It was a thoughtful decision since she initially aimed to stay in New York, but everything ended up falling into place in the best manner. The picturesque setting, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and overhead jets, set the perfect stage for their meeting. They were totally smitten with each other and never looked back.
The proposal came in May 2021 during a trip to Costa Rica. Michael, ensuring the engagement ring’s surprise, thoughtfully navigated through airport security with a discreet note in his luggage. This gesture that showed the caring and romantic nature of their relationship.
Set in the heart of Wine Country in California, The Madrona in Healdsburg offered a blend of sophistication and natural beauty for Michael and Pallavi’s wedding. The couple wanted to avoid a conventional ballroom, choosing instead a luxury boutique hotel that provided an intimate outdoor setting.
Beginning with a traditional South Indian ceremony followed by a Western one, each part was a reflection of the couple’s heritage, creating a unique and inclusive experience for their guests.
Michael also complemented the wedding’s blend of cultures with his own two distinct looks. For the traditional Indian ceremony, he donned elegant Indian attire, embracing Pallavi’s heritage. Later, he transitioned to a classic Western style, wearing a sharp black tuxedo with a bow tie for the Western ceremony and reception.
The Hindu ceremony was a nod to Pallavi’s roots and an opportunity for the guests, including those from Michael’s side, to experience the richness of South Indian wedding traditions and dress up in something they wouldn’t ordinarily wear.
One of the most striking features was the mandap – the ceremonial altar where the couple exchanged vows. Pallavi wanted it to be adorned with small white flowers, creating a lush, canopy-like effect. This choice beautifully blended the traditional aspect of the Hindu ceremony with their modern, chic aesthetic.
Following the Hindu ceremony, couple changed their looks and had a dinner with their families and friends in the orange garden.
The couple also had a Western wedding ceremony, allowing them to honor Michael’s cultural background as well. It had a modern and neutral aesthetics, in line with the couple’s overall wedding vibe. The floral arrangements continued the theme of white and blush tones, maintaining a sophisticated and soft look.
The remarkable team at Ashley Smith Events flawlessly planned this chic, fashion-forward wedding. Their expertise lies in elegant breaking away from traditional norms. For the reception, they worked with the space and created a vision that was seamlessly complemented its unique setting. Here, they dedicated significant effort to curating a dinner setting integrated into the landscape, and the result is truly spectacular!
The decor featured arrangements of white, green, and blush florals, enhancing the venue’s natural beauty. This soft color palette, abundant floral arrangements, and warm sunlight added Michael and Pallavi’s wedding in an intimate atmosphere, although there were over a hundred guests. This thoughtful blend of elements created a cozy, personal feel, allowing each attendee to feel closely connected to the couple’s special day amidst the expansive celebration.
A highlight during the reception was the musical fusion of saxophonist Justin Ward with a DJ Dart Collective, creating an unforgettable ambiance. Emotional first dances, including the couple’s and dances with their parents, added a layer of heartfelt celebration.
The bride shared with us that their wedding planner, Ashley Smith Events, made their wedding planning much easier, taking away the stress and hassle, and designed an incredible, very personal event. With the team’s help and expertise, they were able to pull off a big, multi-day celebration. A delightful example of Ashley’s attention to detail was the “gummy bar” filled with gummies because the bride loved them, and the guests really enjoyed it.
Advice from the couple:
• Try your hardest not to stress even though every moment of planning compels you to feel that way. Your guests usually don’t notice all the tiniest details you’ll fight over during planning, so it does come together, especially when you have an experienced planner like Ashley Smith Events.
• Add personal touches where you can because it’s so fun and special and people enjoy it.
• If your budget permits, get a planner and hire them early enough so that they have enough time to operate.
• The couple should try and have breakfast together. It’s one moment alone to kick off a hectic day or days.
PLANNING & DESIGN Ashley Smith Events | PHOTOGRAPHER Sophie Lin Berard | VENUE The Madrona | VIDEOGRAPHER Sarah Davis | DRESS Jin Wang Bride | MUAH Courtney León Dapper | FLORAL Duet Botanical | CAKE Butter& | MUSIC Dart Collective, Justin Ward | RENTALS Theoni Collection, Bright Event Rentals, Standard Event Rentals, BBJ La Tavola | GRAPHIC DESIGNER Nubo Studios | PHOTO BOOTH Photomatica | CATERING Curry Up Now, Bacchus Landing | TRANSPORT Pure Luxury Transportation, Sonoma Sterling Limousines
