This multinational love story was so fun to capture! Jessica and Yohan met through their parents, who hail from the Kerala region of India. Despite growing up across oceans—Jessica is from Australia and Yohan is from Bloomington—sparks flew, and each knew they had found the one. After Yohan popped the question, they began planning a spectacular two-day celebration in his hometown, which was capped off by a reception at Indiana University Alumni Hall.
The couple heard about me from friends whose wedding I photographed! They loved my editing style and appreciated that they could include a second shooter in their package. They chose my eight-hour package so I could capture every moment of their special day. I’m so glad I could be their wedding photographer!
Meaningful Wedding Traditions
Jessica and Yohan’s Indian Christian wedding was a two-day affair incorporating many traditions from their parents’ home state of Kerala, India. The first day was a blessing and foot-washing ceremony held at First United Methodist Church in downtown Bloomington. These ceremonies honored the couple’s Indian heritage while incorporating elements of their Christian faith. The second day was a traditional vow exchange, again held at First United Methodist Church. The first part of the ceremony was a blessing of the rings, and the second part was a blessing of the crown.
Reception at Indiana University Alumni Hall
An elegant reception decorated with colorful spring flowers followed at Indiana University Alumni Hall! Guests from Australia, India, and the United States attended to celebrate the happy couple. The couple and their parents intentionally incorporated their cultural traditions into the celebration, which made it feel even more special. Jessica and Yohan each received a flower garland symbolizing love and commitment. In addition, their mothers presented them with sweet milk. This tradition is a marriage blessing meant to “sweeten” the bride and groom’s welcome into a new family!
Wedding Photos on the Indiana University Campus
Between their wedding ceremony and reception, I whisked Jessica and Yohan away for couple’s portraits on the Indiana University campus. We stuck close to the iconic Union building and the Biddle Hotel where the couple stayed. I love shooting on this section of campus, especially in the spring! The green spaces look so lush after the long Midwestern winter.
The couple wore their Western wedding attire for the first half of our session, then changed into their traditional Indian outfits. They also wore these outfits for the reception! I adored Jessica’s top and skirt, which perfectly suited the season with a delicate pink floral pattern and gold adornments. Meanwhile, Yohan looked dapper in a complementing cream, gold, and maroon ensemble.
Shooting a wedding reception inside the beautiful Indiana University Alumni Hall is always a pleasure! I’m so grateful to Jessica and Yohan for the opportunity. Are you planning a Bloomington wedding? Whether you’re drawn to the stately university campus or another of the city’s incredible venues, I would be delighted to capture your day. Let’s connect!
Vendors:
Photographer: Mika LH Photography
Ceremony Venue: First United Methodist Church
Reception Venue: Indiana University Alumni Hall
Hair and Makeup: Black Swan Beauty
Floral Design: Cathy Teeters Beautiful Weddings
Music: DJ Kristod
