Our story began on the campus of the University of Illinois, where during just the first couple of weeks, Saaya noticed Shaunak. There was an instant connection, a spark that felt like it was meant to be – but it wasn’t until 2016 that their friendship blossomed into something deeper when they began dating through junior and senior year.
Their relationship was then put to the test as they navigated the challenges of long-distance—Saaya in Chicago and Shaunak completing dental school. Despite the physical distance, their commitment to each other never wavered. Eventually, life brought them together in St. Louis for Shaunak’s residency, marking a new chapter in their journey. Throughout these times, they indulged their shared passion for travel and food, exploring destinations like the dense jungles of Borneo, the serene beaches of Bali, and the mystical landscapes of the Galapagos – each with a unique cuisine and experience to offer.
The proposal was a scene from a dream. Amidst the festive lights of a Christmas market in Budapest, surrounded by the joyous strains of “Mohabbetein,” Shaunak proposed, weaving their love of travel, tradition, and each other into a single, perfect moment.
When planning the wedding, Saaya and Shaunak knew it had to be intimate and deeply personal. Portugal, a land that had captured their hearts during a previous visit, was the destined location. They envisioned a celebration that reflected their journey and passions, and it was nothing short of magical. The wedding spanned picturesque settings from beachside castles to ancient monks’ temples and regal palaces, encapsulating tales of history and romance.
The wedding was a vibrant fusion of cultures and joy. There were no “sides” but only one large, harmonious family. Their non-Indian friends embraced the festivities with a fervor akin to lifelong aficionados of the culture, dancing to Bollywood beats and savoring Indian delicacies alongside Portuguese treats. A standout moment was when Shaunak’s hockey teammates, a nod to his lifelong sport, joined the baraat on roller skates, adding a playful and uniquely personal touch to the traditional procession.
Saaya and Shaunak‘s celebration was not just a marriage of two souls but also a confluence of worlds—diverse, inclusive, and joyously united. As they look ahead, they carry with them not just the memories of a splendid beginning but the promise of a future filled with adventure, love, and the continuous blending of worlds as they journey through life together.
