Mary-Kate and Rakesh Patel, 1.15.22
All photos courtesy of Amy Kolo Photography

Combining Mary-Kate and Rakesh’s Catholic and Hindu family traditions was the top priority when they celebrated their special day. That meant having two ceremonies, along with a Baraat, a joyous procession of song and dance that ushers the groom on horseback to the wedding. The happy, beautiful occasion, along with an entertaining band, kept guests dancing throughout the night — and singing Celine Dion together at the very end. Rocky, a Clemson University grad and chief financial officer of Wells Fargo’s Wealth & Investment Management business, and Mary-Kate, a University of South Carolina grad and human resources professional at Deloitte, met through mutual friends after Mary-Kate moved to Charlotte. A surprise engagement during a walk through Wolf Trap National Park in Vienna, Va., was captured by a family friend hiding and taking photos. “Enjoy the process,” Mary-Kate recommends. “If you get too caught up in the things you can’t control, you’ll miss the fun.”

The details:

Planner: Details Wedding Planning
Florist: Willow Floral Boutique
Ceremonies & Reception: The Design Center Atrium & Byron’s South End
Catering: Best Impressions Caterers
Dress: Designer Vastra, Indian attire; BHLDN, wedding dress
Bridesmaids Dresses: Designer Vastra, Indian attire; Azazie
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Designer Vastra, Indian attire; Alton Lane custom tux with Brackish bow tie
Hair & Makeup: Kenna Kunijo
 Band: The Black and Blue Experience
 Cake: Sweet It Is!
Rings: Masica Diamonds, Rockville, Md. (bride) and Morrison Smith Jewelers (groom)
Stationery: Minted
Videographer: Giovanni Films
Horse: Dead Broke Farm, Raleigh

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