Kelly Jo and Carlton's wedding weekend was an utterly gorgeous, artful celebration with a perfect fusion of traditional Indian and American elements. Kelly Jo was radiant in her bridal gown and saree, her hands and feet decorated with intricate henna designs. We love the richly colored silk fabrics and florals that created a stunning feast for the eyes throughout the festivities. Wonderful photography by Claire & Barrett Photography. 

Tell us a little about you and Carlton.

Carlton is from India and moved to the US when we was young to Akron, OH. He went to Xavier in Cincinnati for undergrad and grad school and is a project manager at AssureCare.

Kelly Jo is from Maysville, KY. She is the Athletic Trainer with the Cincinnati Ballet through Mercy Health.

What were your favorite details?

DJ Vikas made the event amazing! Everyone stayed on the dance floor the whole night. My hair / make up team and photographer made my day and made me feel beautiful. Seeing everyone enjoy every minute made it so much fun for both of us.

Describe your wedding day. Is there a particular moment that remains in your memory most vividly?

The weekend was perfect. Seeing everyone from both families on the dance floor at the end (1am) still having a blast after 3 days of events was an amazing sight to see.

How did you meet?

We met at Sundry + Vice one night while we were both out with friends.

How were your personal styles reflected in your wedding day?

It was very important that the entire weekend represented both cultures. Kelly Jo had traditional mendhi done on Wednesday the week of the wedding and food at the Sangeet event was both Indian and Southern American cuisine. We wore Indian outfits for the Sangeet and suits/dresses for the wedding day events.

Kelly Jo received a thali (a traditional necklace symbolizing marriage) and we exchanged rings. Our six tiered cake was wrapped in a fondant to look like a saree. It truly made the celebration a fusion of two cultures from different sides of the world.

How did you decide on your venue? Why was it the perfect choice?

Embassy Suites had everything we wanted! They had a great ballroom for all the guests, the dinner package we wanted, and the hotel is open - which made for a unique experience so everyone could see everyone else all weekend.

Best advice you received on wedding planning?

Get a planner or at least a day of coordinator. Makes all the difference in the world!

Best thing about being married?

Relaxing together after such a big wedding.

Thank you so much Kelly Jo + Carlton for sharing your stunning wedding with us!! All the very best in the years to come! We are honored to have been a part of your celebration!

Kelly Jo’s Gown: Luxe Redux | Bridesmaid Dresses: Bridal & Formal | Attire: Formal | Flowers: Doug Smith Design & Events | Event Planner: Doug Smith | Cake and other Sweets: Tinker’s | Catering: Embassy Suites | Music: DJ Vikas | Venues: St. Paul Church and Embassy Suites in Lexington | Photography: Claire & Barrett | Hair & Makeup: Pink Lou Lou, Kimberly Brumfield - White Lotus Mehendi | Decorator: Nadia Salash, Nadia's Elegant Events