June 1st, 2008
BLOOMINGTON, Indiana - A local couple exchanged marriage vows yesterday in an emotional ceremony blending cultures and families. Amanda Niskodé, a PhD student in Higher Education, and Aaron Dossett, a Kelley School of Business alumnus and now an executive for Target, married before family and friends in the Hall of Murals at the IU Auditorium.
The organization and planning of the celebration was evident from the moment guests walked in the door. Events unfolded seamlessly as friends of the couple and Auditorium staff greeted guests, gave them their programs, and guided them to their seats. The intricately designed personal guest book, featuring photos of the bride and groom, and the exquisite programs, tied with ribbon and emblazoned with the couple's double-A custom monogram, were designed by the bride's sister and best woman, Priya.
The proud parents and bridal party entered the hall to beautiful and well-timed music provided by a string ensemble, complete with a handsome conductor directing. The groom and groomsmen wore high-buttoned tuxedos, while the bridesmaids wore gold traditional Indian saris over mauve blouses, reflecting the bride’s family heritage. The bride, wearing a deep blue sari with gold trim and a haute couture designer gold blouse, descended the staircase and paused before proceeding up the aisle, clearly overcome with emotion. She was adorned with traditional henna on her hands, arms, and feet, and her makeup was impeccable. The couple joined hands and walked up in to the mandap, a traditional Hindu wedding canopy, draped with beautiful white cascading flowers.
The presiding minister shared his advice, learned from his own many years of marriage, about the equal partnership of marriage, and its sacrifices and joys. The bride's aunt, who had traveled from India, and the couple's friend Jennifer gave readings from Scripture about love. Priya, brimming with joyous tears, read a touching poem by the writer e.e. cummings. The couple emotionally gave their vows, lit a unity candle, and exchanged rings and floral garlands. The minister declared their union and introduced the couple with their new shared name, Aaron and Amanda Niskodé-Dossett. As the couple recessed down the aisle, the groom refrained from giving high-fives, as he had during the rehearsal, though clearly he was exuberant, as was the bride.
The guests, after greeting the beautiful Amanda and handsome bearded Aaron, were met by an exquisitely decorated dining room, featuring orchid centerpieces and white candles, again designed by the talented Priya. Tables were designated by locations special to the couple. There was a fun twist on the wedding favors. Guests were given a custom mug marking the date of the wedding, featuring the double-A monogram, and were invited to fill them with varieties of colorful candy, displayed in various sizes and shapes of decorative glass bowls.
Soumya, a close friend of the bride, introduced the wedding party and served as a witty emcee for the evening. As guests dined, best man and brother of the groom, Lee, gave a toast to the bride and groom as they started their new life together. Priya offered a touching account of learning of the couple's engagement, and her appreciation of Aaron's respect for Amanda. Best man Ben humorously remarked on the groom's evolving sophistication through the years, and ended with a touching tribute to the good match the couple made.
After enjoying dinner, the guests were treated to the ornate wedding cake, ivory-frosted and adorned with exquisite gold beading, with the choice of chocolate or vanilla flavors. Dancing proceeded with a fervor, and guests celebrated into the late hours, joyous at the union of two treasured friends.
For more pictures of the event, please CLICK HERE.
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