Sydney City & Doltone House Wedding: Ben & Manasi – Part 1

Ever since the beautiful day in December when we shot that fabulous engagement session with Ben and Manasi in The Rocks, we’ve been excited about the wedding of these two! Their ceremony and reception combined beautiful elements of both Hindu and Christian traditions, honoring their Sri Lankan culture, their families’ religious traditions, and their Australian home. The lead up to the wedding had been a bit hectic for Manasi as she prepared to move halfway across the country to finally be joined with Ben and end their long-distance relationship.  Everyone was in the best spirits when I joined the girls and some extended family in a bustling house the morning of the wedding. I captured some of the beautiful details amidst the excitement. Manasi had some gorgeous henna done before the wedding day!

Manasi wore a stunning pale gold sari which was beautifully pre-pleated for her. Above is her beautiful thaali, the Hindu sacred symbol of love and marriage in South Asia, the equivalent of a wedding ring in the west.

The house was bustling as the final touches were put on hair and makeup, saris were pinned, flowers were arranged, samosas were eaten, and the ceremony hour grew nearer.

I couldn’t believe my luck when this adorable baby stuck out his tongue in the funniest way just as I raised the camera. His hysterical expression only lasted a split second. How cute is this face?!

The bridesmaids were looking amazing in their striking violet blue and purple saris. What a gorgeous colour on all of them!

Saris are amazing! They are definitely not the type of garment that you put on by yourself, however. I loved watching this beautiful gown get delicately tucked and pinned with such care on the bride. Manasi’s mum, aunties and family and friends were all so happy for her.

Manasi wore the sari so elegantly.

French manicure, henna and sparkly shoes? Amazing! I love all the jewelery and accessories. Stunning!

Soo gorgeous, Manasi!

Ben and Manasi (especially Ben) love Jaguars, so of course they had several different ones for the wedding day, one to pick up Manasi and her bridesmaids, one to pick up Ben, and another special one you’ll see in Part 2.

Meanwhile, Jeff was across town capturing the guys getting ready.

Looking pretty sharp, Ben!

Can’t forget those beautiful rings…

Here are the boys in their matching wedding Jaguar (except this one has a convertible-top). Too cool!

We all headed into the centre of the city to St Stevens Uniting Church for the ceremony. Unfortunately the church still had some scaffolding up for renovations, but I don’t think it lost its charm:

Here comes the bride!

Manasi’s brother walked her down the aisle which I thought was so sweet!  When she appeared in the doorway, Ben caught his first glimpse of his bride. I LOVED his reaction!

This looks like a serious photo of everyone singing, until you see the junior groomsman’s face. Haha, kids can have the best expressions!

Manasi’s sister-in-law helped with the tying of the thaali. What a beautiful tradition!

Ben and Manasi are quite shy about kissing in front of their families. So when the priest pronounced them married, Ben mentally added, “You may now kiss shake hands with the bride!” It was a great impromtu moment that drew giggles from everyone involved.

I love this heart-felt moment of Manasi’s mum giving her a congratulatory hug after the signing of the certificate.

Congratulations to the happy couple! More amazingness awaits in Part 2, where we reveal Ben and Manasi’s vibrant, colourful reception. Watch this space and don’t forget to let the bride and groom know what you think in the comments below.