Ashima and Gautam
Ashima Madan, a dentist specializing in orthodontics, and Gautam Anand, a physician training in gastroenterology,
embarked on a journey that culminated in a beautiful wedding celebration on December 16, 2023, in St. Petersburg, FL, at The Vinoy. With 400 guests in attendance, their love story unfolded in a series of memorable events.
Their modern romance began on the online platform DilMil. After a week of incessant texting, they had their first Facetime date. Despite the virtual setting, Gautam’s thoughtful gestures, like sending roses and Thai food via UberEats, sparked a connection. Meeting in person on Labor Day weekend in 2021 sealed their fate, and they knew they had found something special.
Gautam orchestrated a pictureperfect proposal during his Internal Medicine residency graduation in June 2022. With meticulous planning, he arranged for a rooftop setting adorned with a glowing “MARRY ME” sign and showered rose petals. Ashima was swept off her feet, and amidst awe, she happily accepted his proposal.
To navigate the complexities of wedding planning, the couple enlisted the help of Premini Events. Choosing The Vinoy in St. Petersburg, FL, was an easy decision, resonating with Ashima’s Florida roots and the venue’s iconic pink façade, matching her favorite color. The wedding festivities commenced with a vibrant Mehndi at Ashima’s parents’ home, followed by a warm welcome party at The Vinoy. The Haldi event and Sangeet were lively affairs, filled with music, dancing, and cherished performances from both sides.
BANQUET HALLS The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club – Autograph Collection 727-894-1000 | BEAUTICIANS Henna Allure 321-444-5911 Renata Estepan Makeup and Hair 305-903-3989 | BOUTIQUES Falguni Shane Peacock India 91 9004765981 Sabayasachi 91 9830593953 | CAKE Sweet Divas Cakery 727-498-6323 | CATERING Chef Gaurav Anand 212-683-4228 | DECORATOR Prashe Decor 972-980-4483 | EVENT PLANNER Premini Events 908-591-4050 | HORSE – CARRIAGE Wind Chase Farm 772-285-3480 | MEHNDI Bridal Henna 01 727-459-6448 Henna Allure 321-444-5911 | MUSICIAN DJ Shilpa 908-227-5795 | PHOTOGRAPHER Dukes Images by Duke Khodaverdian 626-744-9695 | PRIEST Pundit Manikya Sharma 813-484-9568 | VIDEOGRAPHY P. Taufiq Photography 617-407-3700
Despite unexpected rain, the wedding ceremony at The Vinoy exuded magic. Vibrant pink décor adorned the indoor setting, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Traditional Punjabi music filled the air as Gautam made a grand entrance on horseback. The reception dazzled with blue and gold décor, featuring stunning floral arrangements and thematic elements. Ashima and Gautam’s first dance to “Dil Diyan Gallan” set the tone for an evening of celebration, with DJ Shilpa spinning a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Spanish, and English music.
Personalized cocktail napkins featuring their family dogs added a charming touch to the festivities. Ashima’s entrance under a floral canopy held by her brothers and uncles was a breathtaking moment, along with witnessing the live painting by Allison Allianic. The couple advises future brides and grooms to enjoy the wedding planning process and cherish every moment. Thankfully, they didn’t experience any funny dreams or nightmares leading up to the big day, nor any calamities to laugh about afterward. Ashima and Gautam’s wedding was a beautiful blend of tradition, love, and joy, creating unforgettable memories for themselves and their loved ones.
