Inside Victoria and Rishi’s cross-cultural wedding that brought DDLJ to Downton Abbey

Victoria and Rishi’s love story began the way many modern romances do, with a Bumble match. Victoria grew up in the quiet countryside of West Sussex, while Rishi, from Northwood, carries Gujarati roots and a family history that stretches from Uganda to India. Theatre and comedy brought them closer, but it was clear early on that this was something special. By their third date, they both knew this was it. The proposal came at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, surrounded by the energy and creativity they both love, making it a moment as personal as it was memorable.

A venue written into memory

For Victoria, South Lodge in West Sussex was never just a venue. It was part of her childhood, a place tied to memories with her mother and grandmother. She had long imagined getting married beneath its Gothic arches and open meadows. Knowing how much it meant to her, Rishi quietly reserved dates at South Lodge even before proposing. It was his way of making sure that when the time came, he would be the one helping her turn a lifelong dream into reality. 

The celebrations were thoughtfully brought together by Q Events & Weddings, who helped shape the couple’s vision into a seamless weekend.

A vedic ceremony with heart

The wedding morning unfolded with a traditional Vedic ceremony led by The Bhavan, London. Guests were given cards explaining each ritual, making everyone feel included and connected. 

As the sacred fire burned, Victoria entered wearing Anita Dongre, accompanied by live sitar and tabla, with verses from the Tulsi Ramayana filling the air. It was an emotional moment, one that moved Rishi to tears and set the tone for the days ahead.

A baraat through English meadows

Rishi’s baraat brought Indian celebration to the English countryside. Dhols, Bollywood music, and dancing guests lit up the atmosphere, but the highlight was the groom's bright yellow auto rickshaw, his one special request. 

As the procession wound through the meadows, Victoria watched from her window before greeting him with a Gujarati tilak and a playful nose tug, blending tradition with joy in the most natural way.

Details that told their story

Guests were welcomed with The Crumble Chronicles, a playful newsletter that mapped out the weekend. Alongside it were survival kits from “Dr Crumble,” a sweet nod to the couple’s beloved dog who couldn’t attend but was very much part of their story.

The decor was designed to balance two distinct sensibilities. Elements flown in from India, including fabrics, linens, and elephant statues, sat alongside locally sourced English florals. The mandap drew deeply from Indian traditions, while live classical music filled the space. 

The mehendi spilled onto the lawns in vibrant pinks and oranges, with folk music, food stalls, and playful touches against a rustic English backdrop. It felt like DDLJ meeting Downton Abbey. 

The sangeet later transformed the ballroom with rich red drapes, a black-and-white dance floor, and candlelight, creating a dramatic yet intimate setting.

A weekend of contrasts and connection

The celebrations unfolded as a series of joyful contrasts. A lighthearted Sports Day broke the ice, with tug-of-war and lemon-and-spoon races sparking friendly competition between Team Bride and Team Groom. 

The mehendi carried a whimsical energy, complete with tarot readers and astrologers, while the sangeet saw English guests learning Gujarati garba, guided by their Indian counterparts. The weekend ended with a surprise flash mob at the reception, leaving the couple beaming.

Two ceremonies, one promise

After the Vedic wedding, the setting shifted for a civil ceremony under a delicate floral arch. A brief drizzle threatened the moment, but the skies cleared just in time. Surrounded by loved ones, Victoria and Rishi exchanged vows, sealing their union in a way that felt true to them.

Family was at the heart of the celebrations. The sangeet featured speeches and performances from both sides, from groomsmen and bridesmaids to Rishi’s mother and her friends. Dances were choreographed across continents, rehearsed over countless video calls. 

When it all finally came together, it was a reminder that this wedding wasn’t just about two people, but about families, cultures, and histories coming together as one.

All images: Unveil Weddings UK

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