Stylish Mountainside Hindu Wedding in California

On the brink of a possible life or death situation, Madhu saw the possibilities of a future with Jesal and knew nothing but fate would bring them together.

Matched through a dating website after Madhu had just been bitten by a rabid animal, Madhu and Jesal were pretty unclear about what may come of their union. Uncertain of his own future, Madhu still pursued Jesal in hopes of creating a forever journey and fortunately for them, his determination ultimately won her over.

Loving this adorable story, continue below for their story and amazing wedding day photos!

Names of Couple: Jesal & Madhu
Occupations: Director of Product & General Counsel of Campaign Monitor
Wedding Date: April 28, 2018
Wedding Venue: Hummingbird Nest Ranch, Santa Susana, California

Tell us how you met. Madhu and I had just matched on a dating app, literally moments after Madhu had been bitten by a rabid dog while jogging in Tulum, Mexico in August 2015. We decided that if he survived we would meet when he was back in San Francisco, which fortunately for them he did, so we did. That first date led to many more, and over a New Years’ trip in Tahoe, Madhu thought I could be the one. Our admiration and love for each other grew over that Spring and Summer, and by Fall, we knew we were in it for the long haul. Since then, we enjoy each other’s time
traveling, eating and cooking yummy food together, Netflix-binging, and going on long walks through our neighborhood.

Describe the proposal. In Madhu’s favorite city in the world, San Sebastian, at dusk, Madhu pulled me away from the crowd to the perfectly lit pier and got down on one knee. He managed to get only three sentences out: “You know, this is my favorite place in the world,” “You’re my favorite person in the world,” and “Will you marry me?”

Describe the wedding planning process. Balancing wedding planning with our demanding work schedule, and making sure both families feel like they have a voice in the planning process is a must, but very worth it! The best thing was having Del Taco after every vendor meeting! We wanted an authentic touch so for our ceremony, it was surrounded by trees, which gave it an ethereal and yet cozy quality. As for the venue, we wanted something that would somehow feel closer to all the things that are real to us.

Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding? Yes, we’re both of Hindu faith, so we wanted to stick our traditions, but still add some glamorous, luxurious, and elegant flair, while still adding a picturesque element, thanks to the mountainous countryside.

What is your best memory from your wedding? The flowers, the decor, the food, the music, all of that was great. However, it’s important for us to always think of these things in context. At the end of the day, the part that mattered the most to us was celebrating the next step with all of our favorite people, who loved and supported us through our journeys both individually and together.

What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples? Remember the marriage is what really matters. The rest is just a big party!