From the first moment of celebration to the last note on the dance floor, Devika & Jonathan’s Philadelphia multicultural wedding weekend was a kaleidoscope of color, tradition, and emotion. Over three days, the Loews Philadelphia Hotel and Bartram’s Garden became the backdrop for a love story told through a South Indian ceremony, a Taiwanese tea ceremony, a lively sangeet, and a glamorous city reception.

Each celebration carried its own rhythm—Thursday’s heartfelt rituals steeped in heritage, Friday’s garden soirée alive with music and dance, Saturday morning’s exuberant Baraat through the streets of Philadelphia, and Saturday evening’s candlelit reception. Associate photographer Gabby captured it all with her signature blend of fine art elegance and in-the-moment candor.

At the center of it all was Lisa Marie Chimento of Kaleidoscope Weddings, the visionary who brought harmony to every moving part of this multi-event celebration. From transforming venues in record time to seamlessly blending cultural traditions, Lisa ensured every guest experienced the weekend as effortlessly joyful—even though behind the scenes, it was a masterclass in precise orchestration.

Taiwanese tea ceremony wedding invitation by Emily Wren Photography

Thursday: South Indian and Taiwanese Ceremonies at Loews Philadelphia

The weekend began in Loews Philadelphia’s Howe Room, where SAC Design created a South Indian ceremony space anchored by a four-post wooden mandap draped in soft beige fabric. Lush greenery, banana leaves, and cascading strands of deep red carnations added richness, while loose petals on the white rug created a romantic, ceremonial setting.

By afternoon, Kaleidoscope Weddings had completely transformed the room for a Taiwanese tea ceremony. Ivory drapery and a golden Double Happiness emblem formed the backdrop. Two chairs, an oriental rug, kneeling cushions, and a wooden table for the tea service completed the intimate scene, accented by floating blooms and candlelight arranged by SAC Design. The scent of fresh flowers and the quiet murmur of family filled the space as Devika & Jonathan honored loved ones through this treasured tradition.

Indian & Taiwanese tea ceremony at Loews Philadelphia Hotel

Friday: A Colorful Garden Sangeet at Bartram’s Garden

Friday evening, guests arrived at Bartram’s Garden, where the tented space glowed with romantic string lights, overhead greenery, and whimsical white paper lanterns. SAC Design infused every corner with lush florals in shades of blush, peach, and coral, paired with bohemian floral linens. Cocktail tables dotted the lawn, each topped with amber glass vases holding seasonal blooms.

The sangeet was a feast for the senses, thanks to Sage Catering’s flavorful menu and the infectious energy of the performances. Friends and family took turns performing choreographed dances—each one a burst of personality, precision, and joy. Guests cheered, clapped, and danced along, creating an atmosphere that felt like a festival of love. Kaleidoscope Weddings ensured each transition flowed seamlessly, so the night built in energy without a pause.

Sangeet Ceremony invitation by Emily Wren Photography

Saturday Morning: Philadelphia Baraat with a Street Party Twist

Saturday morning began with a baraat that transformed Market Street into a stage for joy. Jonathan arrived in a vintage white convertible, surrounded by family and friends dancing to the rhythmic beats of Hindu drummers. Chinese dragon dancers wove through the crowd, their vibrant colors and sweeping movements honoring Jonathan’s heritage in a breathtaking way.

Not wanting to miss a moment, Devika stepped out to join the festivities. Together, the couple danced in the streets of Philadelphia with their guests, creating a once-in-a-lifetime moment of music, movement, and pure joy.

multicultural wedding weekend invitation by Emily Wren Photography

Saturday Evening: A Candlelit Reception at Loews Philadelphia

That evening, guests entered the Regency Ballroom to find it transformed into a candlelit dreamscape by SAC Design. The sweetheart table sat beneath a wooden arch draped with vines and rich blooms, lit by a crystal chandelier and hanging glass orbs. Navy linens grounded the tablescapes, which featured four distinct centerpiece styles—from low burgundy-accented arrangements to soaring glass vases of florals, lucite candelabras framed by greenery, and grand rectangular tables blending all three styles into a continuous floral display. After portraits in their final wedding attire, Devika & Jonathan made their entrance, greeted by applause and the warm glow of the room. Chand Palace served a sumptuous dinner, followed by heartfelt speeches and a lively dance floor led by DJ Jay Rana. The night ended as it began—with music, laughter, and the love of two families intertwined.