Kelly and Vivek
Vivek and Kelly’s wedding was a celebration of love, tradition, and beautiful memories, set against the stunning backdrop of The Westin Carlsbad Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, California. The couple, both dental specialists, had known each other for over a decade before tying the knot on October 29, 2023. Their journey began in 2013 during their specialty residency programs at the West Los Angeles VA hospital. Despite attending different dental schools, they chose the same 3-year program, and their paths crossed from the very first day. A month into the program, they went on their first date, marking the beginning of a long and fulfilling relationship.
For nearly nine years, Vivek and Kelly nurtured their bond, collaborating both professionally and personally. Over the years, they navigated the challenges of long-distance, as Vivek worked in San Diego for a year before returning to Los Angeles, while Kelly stayed in LA. Despite working separately, they dreamed of one day collaborating together professionally. In mid-2023, they took a leap and moved to sunny Tampa, where they now co-own multiple dental offices.
Vivek proposed to Kelly during a trip to Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico, in June 2022. The surprise proposal was perfectly planned, though Kelly had no idea it was coming. Vivek had coordinated with the Rosewood Mayakoba to arrange a proposal spot on the beach, complete with a photographer and family members in the know. As they walked along the beach, Kelly noticed a heart drawn in the sand with “V+K” inside. At that moment, Vivek dropped to one knee and popped the question, leaving Kelly overwhelmed with joy and surprise.
The wedding itself was a stunning blend of Indian traditions and Western customs. It began with a welcome event and Mendhi on October 27, 2023, featuring a vibrant color scheme of fall tones, including pinks, salmon, and lavender, complemented by greenery. Birdcages, candles, and flowers such as carnations and dahlias decorated the venue. A particularly special touch was the folding of 1,001 origami cranes by their families. This Japanese tradition symbolizes peace, love, and longevity, and the cranes were incorporated into both the Mendhi and wedding ceremonies, hanging above the sweetheart table during the reception.
As the couple transitioned from the Mendhi to the wedding itself, they hosted a casual lunch in downtown Carlsbad on the day in between, providing a relaxed setting for guests to socialize. The wedding ceremony, held on October 29, was an outdoor Hindu ceremony, complete with a traditional Baarat. The ceremony was officiated by a priest who ensured that guests, many of whom were unfamiliar with Indian wedding traditions, understood the significance of each ritual. The floral decor remained consistent, with the same vibrant colors and flowers from the Mendhi, and the Mandap was kept simple yet elegant.
For the reception, the couple embraced Western traditions, with a white wedding ceremony officiated by a close family friend, Kent Siladi. They re-purposed the flowers from the Mandap and continued the crane theme with the 1,001 origami cranes adorning the sweetheart table and the backdrop. A unique touch was the traditional Japanese sake ceremony, “San San Kudo,” where the couple drank from three stacked cups, symbolizing love, wisdom, and happiness.
The evening continued with a series of dances, speeches, and a cake cutting. The couple’s first dance was to “And I Love Her” by The Beatles, a song that held special meaning for Kelly, having been a lifelong fan of the legendary band. The day concluded with a night filled with laughter, dancing, and cherished memories, marking the beginning of their new life together.
