Multicultural Wedding Blends Tamil and Scottish Traditions
A couple combined Tamil and Scottish heritage in a celebrant-led spring wedding at Dewsall Court, featuring a hand-tailored lehenga, a family tartan kilt
Shruthi and Sam held their multicultural wedding in April at Dewsall Court in Herefordshire. The celebration blended the bride's Tamil heritage with the groom's Scottish roots, as documented by photographer Marta May for Love My Dress.
The venue was a key decision. The couple chose Dewsall Court for its countryside setting, rustic interiors, and ability to host an outdoor ceremony. They stayed at the venue the night before, which helped create a personal, relaxed atmosphere. The venue's team handled catering, and the couple praised their organization and flexibility.
Attire and Jewellery
The bride's outfit was central to her vision. Shruthi wore a hand-tailored ivory lehenga embroidered with pearls and gold, created by tailor Anjali Batavia. She sought a design that was elegant but not overly heavy. For the evening reception, she changed into a lighter, sequined white saree. Her jewellery came from Amrapali Jewellery, featuring a high choker and statement earrings for a modern take on traditional Indian bridal style.
Sam, the groom, wore a kilt in his family's Ferguson tartan, sourced from the Harris Kilt Company in Belfast. He paired it with a Prince Charlie jacket and waistcoat. The bridesmaids wore handmade lehengas in various shades of green, also created by Anjali Batavia.
The Ceremony Details
Their ceremony was led by celebrant Eleanor of The Full Stop Celebrant. It was non-religious and included personalized vows and ring exchanges. To honour Shruthi's heritage, the ceremony incorporated Tamil traditions like tying the Thali and exchanging flower garlands. Shruthi was walked down the aisle by her parents to a special acoustic guitar version of 'God Only Knows' by the Beach Boys, recorded by Sam. The couple's wedding rings were purchased from Tanishq, a jewellery company in India.
Reception and Entertainment
Floral arrangements by Issy and Bella used seasonal, soft flowers to complement the natural countryside backdrop. The wedding cake, made by Isabel's Bakehouse, was a two-tiered design with chocolate and lemon-blueberry flavours. For evening entertainment, DJ Max Galactic played a mix of Indian and Western music. The couple's first dance was to 'Real Love Baby' by Father John Misty.
Guest favours were handmade palm leaf trinket baskets sourced from Manapad, India. The bride designed and printed the menus herself. Reflecting on their planning, the couple advised thorough research when selecting suppliers and recommended wearing blister plasters in advance.
