Last weekend I had the privilege of photographing my first Sangeet and Mehndi event.  It was hosted at the Westin Book Cadillac in Detroit.  It was wonderful for me to learn the traditions that are involved and I had a great time!! It was amazing to me how many people had traveled so far, from all over the world, to bless the bride and groom!
The Sangeet is a time for singing, dancing, prayers, and for people to meet each other. Guests also enjoy hor d’oeuvres and sweet dishes.
The Mehndi is about elegance and beauty. Rose petals were used to bless the bride and groom (rice is used sometimes) and powders such as tumeric and sandalwood are used to beautify and soften the brides skin.  The bride will normally receive her Henna after this but Bobbie had her’s done the day before so she could actually enjoy more of their ceremony ( I think that is a pretty good idea!)  Something else I learned about the henna -is that they will have something written in it such as the groom’s name, wedding date, or something of that nature.  Bobbie had his name written in it and apparently it isn’t official till he finds it!




Women and children were able to have some henna done by a Sumeyya Rehman. Check out her site here. I really, really wanted to get some done!!!!





There were 3 energetic performances – all awesome!!


I was able to sneak the two of them away for a couple minutes but I could have photographed them for ever-  I have already warned them not to be surprised if I show up on their doorstep 😉

A big thank you to Joshua and Bobbie for being so kind and so wonderful to work with.. you both are amazing and I wish you the best!! I look forward to working with you again!!