May 26, 2013 • Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel
Nitika Mittal and Shalin Sood’s marriage was not just a marriage of minds but also a marriage of cultures. Orthodontist Nitika and Marine Corps lawyer Shalin wanted to merge the aesthetics and traditions of their Virginia upbringing with their Indian heritage on their wedding day.
Raised in Springfield, Nitika met Shalin, who had grown up in Midlothian, during their freshman year at UVA. Shalin later attended law school at the University of Richmond, while Nitika studied orthodontics at VCU and completed her residency at Indiana University in Indianapolis. During a surprise visit, Shalin proposed to Nitika.
Despite the midwestern detour, “It’s a very Virginia-related love story,” says Nitika.
The couple’s reception paid homage to UVA with navy blue and flame orange accents while also incorporating the classic gold and orange of Indian décor. Most of the shopping for the traditional Indian elements took place in India, with all of the clothes coming from New Delhi. A few Indian traditions observed included a ceremony for the groom during which Nitika’s male relatives blessed a headdress and placed it on Shalin’s head. Nitika’s family saw her off in a decorative cart called a baraat carriage where she sat beside Shalin as a symbol of leaving her family’s house.
“The best part was when we left the wedding ceremony, and everyone was throwing rose petals on us,” says Nitika.
Venue: Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel
Photographer: Chris Baltazar, Washington, D.C.
Planner: Ani Sandhu of Ace of Events, Washington, D.C.
Décor & Floral Design: L’Ambiance, McLean
Catering: IndAroma, Alexandria
Lighting & Entertainment: DCViBEZ, Washington, D.C.
Hair & Makeup: Suman Khosla, Bridal Elegance, Lorton
Baraat Procession: Harmon’s Carriages, Brandy Station, and Dholi Mastana, Chantilly
Check out these other lovely Virginia weddings:
Julia & Luke—November 2, 2013 • Rassawek vineyard • Columbia
Jess & Teddy—June 29, 2013 • The Homestead • Hot Springs
Lacy & Sam—April 13, 2013 • King Family Vineyards • Crozet
Stephanie & Robert—February 9, 2013 • VMFA • Richmond
Cat & Teddy—June 1, 2013 • Williamsburg Winery • Williamsburg
Nitika & Shalin—May 26, 2013 • Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel
