Neha & Laya, Suryagarh, Jaisalmer
There's nothing quite like a destination wedding, especially when it takes place in the stunning desert landscape of Jaisalmer. It stands out as a wedding destination due to its unique and mesmerizing landscape, which offers a stark contrast to other popular natural backdrops.
Unlike lush green hills, tropical beaches, or serene lakesides which are plentifully in our country. A destination with desert landscape are not too many. Jaisalmer, with its golden hues and dramatic vistas, sets the stage for a wedding that is both visually stunning and deeply memorable. This was the setting for the recent wedding of Neha & Laya, who decided to tie the knot in a celebration that was unique and timeless.
Neha and Laya first met in London while pursuing their master’s degrees—Neha in medical sociology and Laya in social policy. Their connection was immediate and deep, growing stronger over time until Laya proposed in a moment that perfectly captured their shared journey and dreams.
Welcome to Jaisalmer!
Mehendi – A Garden of Memories
The couple envisioned a wedding that felt warm, intimate, and rich in personal meaning. Each event was designed to reflect a part of their story, blending their backgrounds with elements that felt distinctly theirs. Like The Mehendi was an Indian garden party come to life — vibrant yet soft, with pastel pinks and local textiles filling the space. Neha paid homage to her grandfather by incorporating Carrom, a game they played together during her childhood, into the decor. Surrounded by bougainvillea and a rosy hue that cast itself across guests, the Mehendi set the tone for the days to come.
From Dandiya to Dance-Offs
The sangeet night at Suryagarh was a candlelit affair — no extra lights, just the warm glow of countless candles transforming the courtyard into something truly magical. Drawing inspiration from the film Ram-Leela, the atmosphere felt like stepping back in time, with music and laughter filling the night. Neha and Laya’s celebration kicked off with a dazzling entry and uninhibited dancing. From choreographed performances to spontaneous dance-offs, the sangeet was a celebration of love, laughter, and the bonds that make a wedding truly unforgettable.
A highlight of the night? Dandiya and garba. What started as hesitant footwork soon became a full-fledged dance, thanks to Neha’s sisters, cousins, and even her grandmom, who enthusiastically taught the steps. By the end of the night, their friends weren’t just keeping up—they were moving in sync. Some even made it to the inner circle of the garba!(IYKYK)
Neha & Laya’s wedding Blog - Part 2
Neha and Laya’s celebrations began with a Mehendi straight out of a garden party and a Sangeet filled with dandiya, garba, and endless energy.
But the Haldi and Wedding Day? That’s where the emotions truly peaked. A lush Haldi setup, priestesses leading the pheras, and a reception straight out of a Cambridge May Ball—Part 2 captures it all.
The Wedding Makers
Photography: Hiraaya by Aayushi
Planning and Decor: The Doli Diary
Mehendi Outfits: Anita Dongre
Sangeet Outfits: Tarun Tahiliani, Tisa Studio
Choreography: Lights Camera Dance
Entertainment: Jahnvi Shrimankar
Makeup: Riddhima Sharma Khubchandani
Hair: RitikaTurakhia
Venue: Suryagarh Collection