One fine day

Where would any of us be without our friends? They're the family we choose for ourselves, people we laugh, cry and party with. And occasionally, they can even end up introducing you to the love of your life, as Nina and Minesh discovered four years ago on an evening out with a mutual friend. The pair had already seen each other in various Facebook albums, so when they met their interest was piqued from the get-go.
Minesh proposed by creating a meticulous and bespoke treasure hunt on the couple's two year anniversary. It was planned in minute detail and included a series of love notes and clues, champagne cooling in the fridge and a personalised storybook containing momentos of every significant date; ticket stubs, dinner receipts and photos. By the time she found Minesh on one knee with a ring in his hand, Nina was welling up with emotion and could only manage a choked 'yes!' Nina tells us what happened next, as the couple began planning the day of their dreams.

The bride: Nina Patel
The groom: Minesh Patel
Married: 3rd August 2014
Venue: The Savill Court Hotel, Windsor
Photography: Zurihsia Studios

The Big Day
We chose The Savill Court Hotel in Great Windsor as our venue, a short drive from my family home and close to Minesh’s too. We loved the hotel grounds which included a sweeping driveway, perfect for the jaan. There was also three huge halls for event space, with a domed ceiling in the Great Hall. Minesh's baraat was in two parts; first was in a classic car halfway up the drive, before continuing in a dance procession to the front door. I arrived with my sister and my brother-in-law, following my bridesmaids and male cousins down the aisle.

The Reception
We booked Venue 5 as caterers choosing a sit down Indian dinner for the reception. Guests sipped Bellinis and we ensured there was an alcohol-free option too. The theme was black and gold and our wedding cake matched with a gold fleur-de-lis motif. Event Gurus took care of flowers and décor while Paragon Roadshow handled the reception music and entertainment. 

First Dance
I'm a total daddy's girl so when he made his Father of the Bride speech it pulled on my heartstrings instantly. The other standout speech is the one made by Minesh's brother, who was also the best man. He talked about a young boy becoming a man. It was really beautiful and Minesh was touched by it. Our first dance was to Christina Perri's A Thousand Years. It's made us realise we were soul mates.