Samantha and Gaurav's love story across India and the US, sealed with an Anand Karaj

When Samantha Sheahan and Gaurav Bajaj first connected on a dating app in San Francisco, neither expected how naturally their lives would align. Bajaj, originally from India and shaped by a decade in the United States, brought a reflective outlook influenced by music and philosophy. Sheahan, raised in Washington, DC, carried a deep sense of empathy rooted in community and service.

What began as slow, thoughtful conversations grew into a steady partnership. Their relationship unfolded through long walks in San Francisco, shared hikes, and quiet evenings watching old films. It was never rushed. Instead, it was built on understanding each other’s rhythms and finding strength in their differences.

The proposal

Bajaj proposed on a beach without any spectacle, and with utmost clarity. It reflected the foundation of their relationship: grounded, intentional, and sincere.

Their wedding journey followed the same philosophy. In September 2025, they held an intimate ceremony in the United States. Three months later, in December, they gathered family and friends in Gurugram, India, to celebrate once again through a traditional Anand Karaj. Every ritual served as a bridge between two cultures and one shared promise.

Haldi and mehendi

The Indian celebrations began on December 20 at The Oberoi’s ballroom. For the haldi, the space was transformed with terracotta tones, marigolds, lilies, daisies, and earthy elements like clay pots and jute mats. A high-energy Punjabi dhol entry set the mood for an afternoon filled with laughter and colour.

By evening, the same ballroom shifted into a more romantic setting for the mehendi. A wooden jharokha backdrop, pink and red floral hangings, and cascading jasmine tassels created intimacy. The couple’s entry to A Sky Full of Stars, lit by phone torchlights, became one of the most emotional moments of the festivities.

The Anand Karaj

On December 21, the Anand Karaj unfolded at The Trident’s German Marquee on a serene winter morning. The design centred on stillness using whites, blush pinks, and fresh greens to create a calm environment.

Eight existing trees became the foundation of the ceremony space. Instead of building over them, the decor embraced them. The mandap was positioned between four trees, which supported a softly draped canopy. White fabric formed the ceiling, layered with crystal chandeliers and kaleere that caught the daylight gently.

The glass facade of the marquee was treated with custom Japanese-inspired panels in blush and white, featuring delicate cherry blossom motifs. Florals of eustoma, delphiniums, roses, baby’s breath, and amaranthus were arranged in free-flowing clusters, designed to feel as though they had grown naturally into the space.

Personal details woven through the ceremonies

A vintage-inspired photobooth in greens and wood tones added character, styled with framed photographs, customised coasters, and thoughtful accents that felt deeply personal to the couple.

Planned and designed by DB Spaces, the celebration came together as a seamless blend of cultures and emotions. For Sheahan and Bajaj, the most meaningful part was not just the design or the setting, but witnessing two families stand together, honouring tradition while embracing a shared future.

All images: SDS Studio

Also read: Akansha and Krunal scripted history with first-ever Indian wedding at Pyramids of Giza

Also read: How Dhanistha and Arjun turned their love for adventure into an immersive celebration