Tag: pre wedding bash

A Celebration Steeped in Tradition and Modernity Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant have their wedding in July, and it is a much-anticipated event, preceded by a whirlwind of celebratory events. Following their grand hastakshar ceremony, a traditional Hindu pre-wedding ritual, held in March at the Ambani residence in Jamnagar, Gujarat, the couple embarked on a luxurious four-day Mediterranean cruise in May. This extravagant event served as a unique way to celebrate their upcoming nuptials with a diverse group of 1,200 guests. A Tapestry of Relationships: A Guest List Reflecting Decades of Connection The extensive guest list for the cruise went beyond close family and friends. It encompassed employees from Reliance Industries, the Ambani family’s business empire, a testament to Anant’s commitment to his professional network. Encore Healthcare, the Merchant family business, was also well-represented, reflecting the importance of Radhika’s family background. Even Anant’s animal sanctuary, Vantara, found a place in the guest list, highlighting the couple’s shared passion for animal welfare. The inclusivity extended further, with the couple inviting their doctors, creating a guest list that spanned not just social circles but also generations, ranging from playful six-month-olds to experienced individuals in their nineties. Europe was a natural choice for the location, allowing friends and family residing overseas, particularly Radhika’s family and American college friends who couldn’t attend the hastakshar in India, to participate in the festivities. Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Style: A Journey Curated with Unforgettable Experiences Palermo, Sicily, served as the embarkation point for the cruise, kicking off with a welcoming lunch that set the tone for the celebratory voyage. As the ship glided along the picturesque Italian coast, the festivities kicked off with a dazzling “starry-night”-themed formal party. Anant wrote Radhika a love letter on her 22nd birthday, and she made a stunning entrance in a Robert Wun gown. This sentimental touch added a personal layer to the celebration, showcasing the depth of their connection. The night took an unexpected turn when the Backstreet Boys surprised the guests with a live performance. The iconic boy band’s energetic set sent shivers down the spines of many, particularly those who grew up listening to their music, creating a wave of nostalgia that washed over the guests. After exploring the historical city of Rome the following day, the revelry returned to the ship with a lively toga party. The décor paid homage to the couple’s college years, featuring banners from their respective universities, NYU and Brown. This playful theme provided a lighthearted atmosphere, allowing guests to reminisce about their own college experiences. A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation: Fashion Statements on the High Seas Radhika’s outfit for the toga party was a custom-designed creation by emerging New York designer Grace Ling, a graduate of Parsons School of Design, similar to Radhika’s time at NYU. This unique “toga” incorporated a 3D-printed, aerospace aluminium breastplate replicating drapery. It served as a symbol of the couple’s embrace of modern fashion while remaining grounded in tradition. This innovative technique showcased Grace Ling’s talent and her ability to push the boundaries of fashion design. Nita Ambani, Anant’s mother, also made a dazzling statement in a Schiaparelli design, exemplifying the focus on elegance throughout the cruise. French Riviera Revelry: A Masquerade Ball Fit for Royalty The cruise docked in Cannes on the third day, where a grand masquerade ball awaited the guests at the historic Château de la Croix des Gardes, a location forever immortalised in Alfred Hitchcock’s “To Catch a Thief.” The venue itself exuded an air of sophistication, transporting guests to a bygone era of glamour. The Isle of You, the meticulous event planner, ensured every detail was flawless, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Radhika opted for a custom-made Versace gown in shades of blue, reminiscent of the Côte d’Azur’s vibrant waters. This masterpiece, a collaboration between Radhika and her stylist, Shaleena Nathani, took a year to complete, showcasing the meticulous planning that went into every aspect of the cruise. The bride-to-be completed her look with a stunning opal and diamond necklace by Lorraine Schwartz, a symbolic piece with her birthstone and Anant’s. A bridal fascinator served as her mask, while Anant complemented her elegance in a custom Dolce & Gabbana ensemble. The evening reached its peak with a captivating performance by Katy Perry. Her energetic performance had the masked crowd dancing and singing along. The night culminated in a breathtaking fireworks display that illuminated the night sky above the chateau, leaving guests breathless. The party continued aboard the ship with a high-energy concert by Pitbull. The renowned rapper’s pulsating beats kept the dance floor packed until the early hours, ensuring the night remained etched in everyone’s memory. Portofino’s Enchanting Finale: A Night Under the Stars Steeped in Romance The final leg of the cruise saw the Ambanis transform the main square of Portofino into a vibrant open-air marketplace. The renowned event planner Vincenzo Dascanio orchestrated the event design and florals, incorporating vibrant tomatoes and classic Vespas, the iconic Italian scooters, to capture the essence of la dolce vita, the Italian “sweet life.” The atmosphere buzzed with energy, filled with laughter, conversation, and the aroma of delicious food from the market stalls. For this occasion, Radhika donned a rare piece of fashion history—an archival Yves Saint Laurent for Dior dress sourced by stylist Mimi Cuttrell. The dress’s seemingly simple design belied its intricate construction, showcasing the timeless elegance of a bygone era. The dress represented Radhika’s appreciation for fashion history and her desire to incorporate a touch of vintage glamour into the celebration. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, the legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli took centre stage. His powerful voice filled the piazza, sending shivers down spines and bringing tears to eyes. The open-air setting added a touch of intimacy to the performance, making it a truly unforgettable experience. His performance featured iconic love songs like “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “I Found