Manas & Romita- 5.26.19

Manas & Romita

Sunday, May 26, 2019

Georgia Museum of Art

“Distance makes the heart grow fonder” is definitely the mantra of Manas & Romita’s love story. While visiting India a few years ago, Manas contacted Romita via Tinder and was disheartened to find no reply. Then, a week later, Romita finally saw the message and responded. They both took the plunge and met for coffee near where Romita lived. They immediately hit it off and continued to hang out while Manas was in India. When it was time for Manas to head back to the states, they decided to keep in touch and maintain their friendship. After about 6 months of long distance friendship, the two decided they were meant to be more. After dating *super* long distance for a while, Manas popped the big question and wedding planning began.

Since Romita was still in India for most of the planning process, Manas’ mom, Sujata, and sister, Kalindi took the lead on putting together the celebration.

Once Romita arrived in The US and about a week of greeting family from afar and completing last minute wedding details, the official celebration began with Shaadi Revelry. Hosted on Saturday at the Winfield home, Shaadi Revelry featured the haldi ceremony, mehndi, folk songs, snacks, and games. The party continued later that night with cocktails and dinner at Cali N’ Titos.

Wedding morning was filled with family and preparation. Finishing touches were made upon decor and dance routines as girls were pampered with hair and makeup at the Winfield’s house. When everyone was ready, they made their way over to The Georgia Museum of Art where set up was already underway.

The Jackson & June Events team, along with the Trump’s Catering team were zipping around setting tables and decorating ceremony arbors in the museum lobby.

The museum lobby was soon transformed into a colorful spot fit for a grand celebration. The staircase was draped with authentic Indian fabric and wall hangings, the ceremony arbors were adorned with traditional sari fabric, the entryway featured large pictures of the couple’s ancestors, and Indian street art was placed upon the pipe and drape that lined the museum walls. Strands of jasmine softened the modern concert walls of the sculpture garden and the sari fabric added the perfect pops of color.

At around 5:45 PM it was time for the traditional entry of the Groom, called the Baraat. The Baraat included drum players and a parade of the groom’s family and closest friends. They danced and celebrated their way around the museum to end in the sculpture garden, where the most joyous dancing took place.

As the dancing slowed and the Baraat members were all in the garden, it was time for the Bride’s grand entrance. As one of her favorite songs played, Romita made her way down the grand staircase wearing the most gorgeous, bright green wedding sari.

At the end of the staircase, she was greeted by Sujata and the rest of Manas’ family. The symbolism of them welcoming her into the family was simply beautiful.

Manas’ family then walked her through the garden to meet Manas at the ceremony arbor, where they then participated in the traditional Exchanging of the Garlands.

After the ceremony, the guests made their way inside for cocktail hour while the family completed their formal photos with photographer Jason Thrasher.

The newlyweds were then introduced into the reception and the buffet was opened for guests to enjoy.

The reception was filled with performances dedicated to the couple, including traditional Indian dances by Manas’ brother, sister, mom, aunts, and cousins. The joy in their steps was truly captivating!

The guests covered the dancefloor and enjoyed teaching and learning some authentic dance moves until it was time for sendoff. After the last song, everyone grabbed their party favors (jewelry and iron deer sculptures brought straight from a market in India) and headed outside. They lined the driveway and cheered with LED candles while Manas & Romita made their way to their getaway car.

The entire weekend was a true testament to how joyous their love really is. Congratulations to Manas & Romita!