Our heartiest congratulation to Parin Shah ( son of Smita & Dipak Shah of Illinois) & Paula Johnson ( Daughter of Dede & Dave Johnson of Illinois) on their wedding on May 17th 2014 at The Westin Hotel , Lombard, Illinois.

Both families enjoyed the Mehindi Party at the Shah residence on Wednesday May 14th, where the bonding of two families was very apparent. Over 40 ladies enjoyed putting henna on their hands, Mexican dinner was extremely enjoyed by all family and guests.

Thursday May 15th, to blend the two cultures, Italian gourmet food was enjoyed by both families & guests at Volare Restaurant, Oakbrook, Illinois. We were surprised by Parin’s uncle, (mama) Vimal Shah, all the way from Nairobi, Kenya.

Friday morning the Shah family hosted the Mandavo and Ganesh Puja at the Shah residence. Traditional Indian food was enjoyed by family & guests. Gujarati Priest Satishbhai Joshi performed beautiful puja . Friday evening, yet another international food of Falafel & Mediterranean cuisine was enjoyed by family and guests.

Saturday on the big day, the Barat and the groom arrived on a white horse, with Indian music, Dol beats, dancing and all enjoyed the procession. It was a beautiful sunny day.

First wedding ceremony was Indian wedding, where the bride’s parents welcomed the Barat and Groom Party. Lychee & Mango sorbet was served , very refreshing after all the dancing. The Mandap was beautifully & elegantly decorated.

Traditional Indian wedding ceremony was performed with elegance and thoroughly enjoyed by all . All bridesmaids and groomsmen had worn Indian outfits, very elegant! Parents offered their blessings to the couple.
Family and guests arrived from United Kingdom, Kenya, East Africa, Canada & all over USA.
Gujarati lunch was served, as well as Italian food. It was wonderful to see the guests enjoying both cuisine.

In sheer elegance the Christian wedding ceremony was performed in the late afternoon. Beautiful bridesmaids with long beautiful gowns graced the wedding procession with the black suited groomsmen.
Christian Priest conducted the ceremony, Parin & Paula lighted the candle for unity.

Reception followed , cocktails, appetizers, wonderful dinner, music, dancing, speeches, Little people performances, all enjoyed by family and guests. Lots of photos and wonderful memories were snapped and friendships made.

Again, we wish the couple all the best in their wedded life.
Our Elders, who are no longer with us, were remembered, a special table was set for them and their blessings to the couple.

Our thanks to all, who made a very memorable day for us,

sincerely,

Smita & Dipak Shah.
Chicago, Illinois