AHMED & LATISHA | AN EPIC GUJARATI WEDDING IN AUCKLAND
Capturing Ahmed & Latisha’s 6-Day Multicultural Wedding in Auckland
Every now and then, I get to film a wedding that reminds me why I picked up a camera in the first place.
Ahmed and Latisha’s wedding wasn’t just a celebration—it was an experience. A six-day journey across cultures, rituals, emotions, and unforgettable moments. As both a videographer and photographer, I had the honour of capturing this once-in-a-lifetime celebration from start to finish.
This wedding was a powerful blend of Indian and Middle Eastern traditions, held across beautiful Auckland venues like Markovina Vineyard Estate and Lone Pine Estate, as well as intimate family homes.
Day One: The Mahar Ceremony at Markovina Vineyard Estate
We kicked things off at Markovina Vineyard Estate—a stunning venue with rows of vines, warm wooden interiors, and golden afternoon light. It was the perfect setting for the Mahar ceremony, honouring Ahmed’s Middle Eastern roots.
Ahmed’s side of the family was quiet and reserved, but their warmth came through in small, meaningful gestures. I kept the cameras rolling as laughter broke out during greetings, and captured intimate moments between Ahmed and Latisha during the ceremony.
There’s something magical about filming at Markovina. The setting gives every frame a cinematic quality—and on that day, everything just felt aligned.
Days Two to Four: Mehndi, Pithi & Saanthak at Home
The next few days took us into the heart of both families' homes for the Mehndi, Pithi, and Saanthak ceremonies. These were some of my favourite moments to film.
The Mehndi was full of colour, music, and the rich aroma of spices in the air. Henna artists worked their magic while friends and family danced, sang, and shared stories.
At the Pithi, turmeric flew everywhere as laughter filled the room. These candid, unscripted moments are where the soul of a wedding truly shines.
The Saanthak brought a spiritual calm. Everyone came together in prayer, reflection, and quiet preparation for the big days ahead.
As a filmmaker, it's in these less “staged” moments that I find the most genuine beauty—and I made sure every smile, every glance, every ritual was captured with care.
Day Five: Hindu Wedding at Lone Pine Estate
Then came the main event—Latisha’s Hindu wedding ceremony, held at the breathtaking Lone Pine Estate.
The venue was dressed in vibrant colours, with a beautifully decorated mandap set against rolling green fields. The sunlight hit just right, making every shot glow.
Latisha’s family welcomed us like we were one of their own. They were warm, energetic, and full of life. I remember thinking, this isn’t just a wedding—this is a community coming together to celebrate love.
The rituals were rich with symbolism. From the Kanyadaan to the Saptapadi, each part carried emotional weight. We used multiple cameras and drones to capture both wide grandeur and intimate moments.
Lone Pine Estate is truly one of Auckland’s hidden gems for Indian weddings—it gave us the space and light to work with, and it shows in every frame we delivered.
Day Six: The Western-Style Wedding and Reception at Auckland Museum
On the final day, we documented a beautiful Western-style ceremony and reception.
Latisha walked down the aisle in a white dress, radiant and emotional. Ahmed stood waiting, his quiet smile saying more than words ever could.
This day felt modern, simple, and full of heart—a perfect contrast to the rich traditions of the earlier ceremonies. Filming the vows, the first kiss, and the joyous celebration afterward was the perfect way to wrap up the week.
A Week That Left a Mark on My Soul
I’ve filmed hundreds of weddings over the years, but this one—Ahmed and Latisha’s six-day celebration—will stay with me forever.
It was a reminder that love doesn’t have to choose between cultures. It can honour both. It can bring two worlds together in a way that’s personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.
From Markovina Vineyard Estate to Lone Pine Estate, and every family home in between, I had the privilege of telling a story that spanned generations, traditions, and continents.
Are you planning a multicultural or multi-day wedding in Auckland?
Let’s talk. I’d love to help you capture the magic—whether it’s your Mehndi, your vineyard ceremony, or every meaningful moment in between.
