Sydney & Connor's Gorgeous Wedding Weekend | A Western and Indian Wedding

When Sydney’s mom reached out and asked if I’d be willing to photograph her daughter’s wedding, which was a two-day event with two ceremonies—a Western ceremony and an Indian ceremony, I have to admit, I was a bit intimidated. I had never been to an Indian wedding before, let alone photographed one! But I said I was willing, as long as I had a bit of guidance…and an absolutely amazing connection began.

Nidge, Sydney’s mom, was such an amazing help during the planning process, writing up and describing the event in such wonderful detail! And both sides of the family were the loveliest of people. When I met them all on Saturday, I immediately felt a warm welcome; they had even set a place for me at one of their reception tables!

The first event of the weekend was the Western ceremony, held at the Anne Springs Close Greenway’s Dairy Barn. It was a perfect August day and the sweetest wedding ceremony. The reception food was a mix of American BBQ and Indian food. I had actually never had Indian food before, and I was very pleasantly surprised! I was expecting lots of spice and unusual flavors, but every bite of food that I tried was delicious and not spicy at all!

The second day was the Indian ceremony, which was held at McBryde Hall on the campus of Winthrop University. I arrived as the bridal party was getting ready and adorning themselves with gorgeous, colorful dresses and jewelry. The bride’s dress was stunning, full of royal reds, purples, and golden accents. Juist prior to the ceremony, there was a huge outdoor procession where the groom walked (rather, paraded, complete with music and bubble guns) to the ceremony space with his family, and the bride’s family greeted him and his family with an exuberant, colorful welcome. Then everyone headed indoors for the ceremony. There were so many traditions and moments, and such rich and beautiful colors. The officiant spoke the ceremony in both Indian and English, so it was easy to follow. I am so grateful to my amazing second shooter, Blakely Fowler of Blakely Clayton Photography, who helped me capture every angle and detail of the ceremony so that we didn’t miss a thing! One of the funniest moments was when the children swiped the groom’s shoes and made him pay them with cash and a silly little dance in order to get them back. The reception followed a few hours later, and once again, there was the most delicious combination of both Western and Indian foods. My favorite was a cold, mango-flavored drink. After dinner and speeches, the dancing kicked off with a traditional dance led by the Indian women, joined by the men, and finally, everyone! It was a swirl of graceful movements and beautiful colors—a truly joyful experience.

Thank you so much to the Coston and Urquhart families, for trusting me to capture such a special time for you, and for welcoming me with open arms into your family and traditions!