When we were asked to provide photography for a Syro Malabar engagement ceremony here in Calgary, I have to admit, I had to to some serious research. It turns out that it is a beautiful full day ceremony that is similar to what we would view as a traditional wedding. We love having the opportunity to experience new cultures and ceremonies, we always work with our couples, and do lots of research, to ensure that we have photographers in the correct position for the important parts of the day.

Syro Malabar Engagement Ceremony

Syro Malabar is a sect of Catholicism with roots tracing back to Southern India. The full day event begins with hair and make-up for the ladies while the guys get ready at a separate location. Make-up by Miss Lu provided the hair and make-up services and were fantastic to work with making all the girls look their absolute best. Arriving at the church, in this case it was the beautiful Mary Mother of the Redeemer church in Calgary, the girls were all dressed in stunning dresses. Archana, our soon to be fiancé, arrived in a beautiful red dress and looked positively incredible.

While I was photographing Arun getting ready, I was treated to what his uncle referred to as ‘Indian Coffee’. To clarify, I LOVE coffee and have been fortunate to try many different kinds in many countries around the world. I was a little skeptical however when he grabbed a glass jar out of the cupboard and made instant coffee. Let me tell you…it was amazing. BRU Coffee is going to become a regular staple in our household.

The church ceremony was a smaller affair, due to restrictions, held with close friends and family. As Archana walked down the aisle towards her soon to be fiancé, the smiles they both had warmed the hearts of everyone in attendance. The ceremony progressed and with an exchange of rings, our couple were engaged.

Despite the cold weather, we were able to capture some great formal photos of the couple outside of the church as people started to prepare for the reception still to come. Archana and Arun were absolute champs as they posed and repositioned despite the snow and cooler weather that had moved into the region.

The Reception

The Courtyard by Marriott – Calgary South provided the reception space and catering for the evening. The meal was delicious and everyone had more than enough. There were several traditional dances which displayed the incredible workmanship in each of the dresses and the wonderful choreography and practice that were put in to creating the dances. Archana had a second dress for the evening portion which was just as beautiful as the first dress.

Aside from the traditional dances, the reception goers were treated to a Latin dance class which had everyone moving and twisting like professionals in no time…okay, maybe not professionals but better than they were earlier in the night.

As the night got later, the party got into full swing with tons of dancing and partying. 1729 DJ took over and set the atmosphere with great music and lighting. We headed out as the party was getting into full swing. No doubt this party went late into the evening with lots of laughing and fun.

Patton Photography is a professional photography studio based out of Calgary, Alberta. Our signature style offers a clean and modern look to your photographs while maintaining a professional headshot. Contact us anytime to sit down over coffee for a stress-free conversation.

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