East Meets West

Audra Lemley & Rahul Vyas February 24, 2024 / Wild Dunes Though Audra Lemley and Rahul Vyas grew up and met in North Carolina and now call Chicago home, Charleston holds a special place for the couple. They enjoy annual visits to the Lowcountry to see her family, and “we really feel connected to the natural flora and unique coastal landscape here,” says Audra. While she could easily envision their nuptials at Wild Dunes, where her mother and stepfather married in 2010, Audra and Rahul’s wedding necessitated an artful blending of Eastern and Western traditions. Filled with a stunning procession of intimate rituals followed by a larger party, the two-day event brought together his Indian heritage with her American sensibilities. “Indian weddings are renowned for their vibrant and kaleidoscopic celebrations, bursting with rich colors and ornate details,” says planner Chelsye Harp of Intrigue Events. “Audra wanted to merge this custom with her own, so we gave the design a serene coastal feel.” Festivities such as the pre-wedding Sangeet (an Indian dance party with authentic street foods) and Baraat (the groom’s celebratory procession to the ceremony) also honored his family traditions. Major emphasis was placed on the actual wedding ceremony, which featured Indian attire and rituals but a different take on the usual four-pillar mandap. Florist Loluma Events reimagined the normally covered altar with an open-air design, building a ceremonial stage below a giant live oak draped with floral garlands. The reception, held in the ballroom of the Sweetgrass Inn, leaned into Western wedding customs through a more neutral palette and plenty of glam. Attended by 240 guests from near and far, Audra and Rahul’s wedding perfectly reflected this intentional pair while also honoring each one’s culture and family. Top Tips • Embrace a fusion of traditions. Work together to incorporate elements from both cultures, such as ceremonial rituals, attire, or music. For instance, blending a mandap (a traditional Indian wedding canopy) with a modern open-air design can symbolize the union of past and present while also respecting family customs and personal style. • Personalize your ceremonies. Customize key rituals to reflect your relationship and beliefs, says planner Chelsye Harp. If a certain tradition feels too rigid, consider modifying it to make it more intimate. • Keep open communication with family. It’s essential to have open discussions with both families about which traditions are most meaningful. Understanding their expectations while explaining your personal preferences will help strike a balance, ensuring everyone feels included without sacrificing your individuality. Vendors Planning & Design: Intrigue Events Venue, Bar, & Cake: Wild Dunes Photography: Dana Cubbage Catering: Spice Palette Florals & Rentals: Loluma Events Stationery: Minted Weddings Entertainment: DJ Mehul, Emerald Empire Bridal Attire: Friendship Sarees in Santa Cruz, Mumbai, India Groom Attire: Paaneri in Andheri West, Mumbai, India Wedding Party Attire: Gopal Emporium, Ahmedabad, India Jewelry: Neelankrees Mendhi/Henna artist: Manasi’s Bridal Henna Beauty: Alexis of Natural Canvas