Some love stories unfold slowly, growing deeper with time. Shriya and Neal’s story began on the very first day of college when they were just eighteen, next-door dorm neighbors who quickly became inseparable. From shared late-night conversations to navigating life’s biggest milestones together, their bond only strengthened with time. That same partnership carried them through medical school and eventually to residency training at Yale, where wedding planning began alongside their demanding schedules.
Neal’s proposal was as thoughtful as their journey—set against the breathtaking backdrop of a private beach in Thailand. Completely unexpected, deeply personal, and filled with quiet romance, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. As they began envisioning their wedding, one thing was clear for Shriya: having been born and raised in India until the age of twelve, it was essential that their celebration take place there—rooted in culture, family, and heritage.
The Venue: Where History Meets the Wild
Their search led them to Alsisar Naharagarh in Ranthambhore, a venue that felt almost cinematic in its beauty. Nestled amidst nature and steeped in regal history, the property offered a rare balance—heritage architecture softened by open skies, earthy textures, and the raw charm of Rajasthan’s landscape. It was the perfect setting for a wedding that was meant to feel intimate yet grand, elegant yet deeply personal.
The couple opted for a “small” Indian wedding, surrounded by their closest friends and family. Stripped of excess and focused on meaning, every moment felt intentional—and every detail told a story.
Decor That Whispered, Not Shouted
The decor echoed the couple’s vision: understated luxury with cultural depth. Rather than leaning into overly bold or traditional palettes, the design embraced soft neutrals, natural textures, and heritage-inspired elements that complemented the venue rather than overpowering it. Think warm ivories, muted golds, delicate florals, and subtle pops of color drawn from nature—greens, soft blushes, and earthy tones.
The result was an atmosphere that felt timeless and serene. Flowing fabrics, gentle candlelight, and thoughtfully placed accents enhanced the historic arches and stone walls of Naharagarh, allowing the surroundings to remain the true showstopper. It was décor that felt lived-in, soulful, and effortlessly elegant—much like Shriya and Neal themselves.
The Ivory Lehenga: Tradition Reimagined
For Shriya, fashion was a deeply personal expression—and she approached her wedding wardrobe with intention and artistry. She wanted her outfit to feel unique, elegant, and reflective of both her Indian heritage and American roots. Stepping away from the brighter hues typically associated with sangeet celebrations, she chose an ivory lehenga, a color that felt refreshing, refined, and timeless.
The lehenga struck a perfect balance between old and new. Crafted with banarasi brocade, it paid homage to traditional Indian textiles, while the modern silhouette, fluid flare, and clean design gave it a contemporary edge. Against the heritage backdrop of Ranthambhore, the ivory tone stood out softly—luminous without being overpowering, regal without feeling heavy.
It was a look that felt intentional and deeply “her”—a quiet statement of confidence, grace, and individuality.
A Perfectly Complementary Groom Look
For Neal, the vision was equally thoughtful. Moving away from the darker, more conventional shades often seen in groom’s sangeet outfits, the couple wanted something lighter, fresher, and cohesive with Shriya’s ensemble. They found the perfect outfit at Kalki, one that complemented her ivory lehenga beautifully without competing with it.
His look was elegant, refined, and timeless—proof that when styling is intentional, subtlety can be just as impactful as boldness. Together, their outfits felt harmonious, modern, and perfectly aligned with the overall aesthetic of the wedding.
A Celebration That Felt Like Home
From the décor to the fashion, from the venue to the guest list, Shriya and Neal’s wedding was a reflection of who they are—rooted in love, shaped by shared experiences, and guided by intention. It wasn’t about scale or spectacle, but about meaning. About celebrating nearly two decades of togetherness in a place that honored culture, family, and personal history.
Set against the majestic beauty of Ranthambhore, their wedding was nothing short of perfect—a reminder that when love, authenticity, and thoughtful design come together, the result is truly timeless.
