Morning of the Wedding . . .
. . . Intermission . . .
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An Indian Scottish Fusion wedding! It was such a wonderful experience getting to meet Calum and Roshni and photograph their wedding story in the Algarve this Autumn.
It was our first time photographing a full Indian ceremony with all the traditions, sprinkled with a few Scottish twists!
The ceremony started with prayers to Lord Ganesh, asking him to bless the ceremony and the couple. Lord Ganesh symbolises peace, friendship and happiness.
Calum and Roshni then exchanged flower garlands, the first ritual of the wedding ceremony. In doing this, they proclaim their mutual love, respect, and acceptance of each other, and promise to choose each other every day.
A thread is placed around the couple to symbolise the beginning of their union. As part of this, the parents pour water onto their palms to symbolise the continuity of life and the passing of family heritage from one generation to the next.
Calum’s family tartan was placed over his shoulder and tied to the end of Roshni’s outfit, signifying that they are now united as they continue their lives together.
An open fire is lit in the Mandapa to symbolise the presence of the God of Fire – Agni, as a witness to the marriage. Agni represents the life – giving energy of the universe, within which the couple will make their wedding promises.
They circle the fire four times, honouring the four key aspects of their married life and what they will commit to as partners, intentional living, prosperity, love, and knowledge.
They take seven steps together, and with each step exchange their vows to each other. With the first step, they promise to help and look after each other. With the second step, they promise to learn and grow together. With the third step, they promise to share their worldly possessions and support each other to reach their dreams. With the fourth step, they promise to trust and respect each other. With the fifth step, they promise to love and care for their family unconditionally. With the sixth step, they promise to embrace life together wherever it may take them. With the seventh step, they promise to always remain friends, and to cherish and love each other.
Next, they play a game where they must find a ring in a bowl filled with coloured water and pearls. The story goes that whoever wins will be the person in charge of the relationship!
There was so much wonderful imagery throughout this ceremony, one exciting moment after another, lots of fun and beautiful moments to capture.
Following the ceremony we took Roshni and Calum for a stroll around the grounds of the venue, the pair looked so amazing in their Indian wedding apparel.
After a short break and an outfit change this wedding story continued in Scottish style, this time with Calum wearing a traditional kilt and Roshni rocking a dramatic black wedding gown.
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The wedding ceremony and reception took place at the Tivoli Hotel in Carvoeiro | Organised by We By Passage To India Portugal | Claudia Agua Make up & Raquel Fraposo Hair | Wedding Band: Rapture Band Portugal | Video by VIP films
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Check out Roshni & Calum’s Mihndi Party from the night before!