When Shivani and Jay chose Columbia, South Carolina, for their wedding, they knew they wanted to create a celebration that honored their Indian heritage while embracing modern luxury. Their three-day wedding at 701 Whaley was more than just an event—it was a heartfelt tribute to family, tradition, and timeless love. For our team at Jessica Hunt Photography, being part of this journey as a South Carolina Indian wedding photographer was an honor we will always cherish.

Shivani and Jay glowing with joy during their Indian wedding ceremony at 701 Whaley in Columbia, SC.
The Venues: 701 Whaley in Columbia, South Carolina
Every moment of this wedding unfolded at 701 Whaley, one of Columbia’s most beloved venues. From the serene poolside setting of Jay’s Satak ceremony to the vibrant Sangeet in The Market, and finally the grand reception in The Grand Hall, the venue provided the perfect backdrop for each unique part of the weekend. The architecture’s historic charm paired beautifully with bold décor, making 701 Whaley weddings in Columbia SC ideal for couples who want both character and versatility.

A stunning floral and gold-detailed wedding cake by Bonnie Brunt Cakes for Shivani and Jay’s celebration at 701 Whaley.
A Three-Day Celebration of Culture and Color
The Satak Ceremony
The weekend began with Jay’s Satak ceremony at the 701 Whaley Pool, draped in deep blues and flowing linens. This sacred ritual, filled with offerings and blessings, marked the official start of the festivities. Family members participated in prayers, and a memorial tribute honored Jay’s grandfather, weaving legacy into every detail.

Shivani and Jay’s Satak ceremony at 701 Whaley, featuring elegant navy and white décor with gold accents.
The Sangeet Reception
The following evening, Shivani and Jay hosted their Sangeet in The Market at 701 Whaley. The ceiling was transformed with colorful umbrellas, while friends and family performed choreographed dances, sang, and celebrated the couple’s love. Shivani looked radiant in bold Indian attire with intricate henna, while Jay’s classic look paired seamlessly with the vibrancy of the evening. The atmosphere embodied joy, laughter, and cultural tradition.

Shivani and Jay during their Sangeet celebration outside 701 Whaley, wearing vibrant Indian wedding attire.

Bold floral centerpieces and colorful reception décor transformed 701 Whaley for Shivani and Jay’s wedding celebration.
The Wedding Day
On the morning of their wedding day, Jay arrived on a white horse from Camden Carriage Company, leading a Baraat procession accompanied by energetic drumming from Dholi Singh and live music by Men of Distinction. Guests danced through the streets in celebration as the couple prepared for their traditional ceremony in The Market at 701 Whaley. Under a beautifully adorned mandap designed by The Haathi Chai Decor and filled with florals by Florist on Main, Shivani and Jay exchanged vows and honored sacred traditions. Clay pots of ice cream were shared with guests—a sweet and unique touch.

Shivani in her red and gold bridal lehenga with green jewelry and henna before her wedding ceremony at 701 Whaley.

Jay’s Baraat procession at 701 Whaley, arriving in style on a white horse surrounded by family and friends.

Shivani and Jay exchanging garlands during their wedding ceremony at 701 Whaley, surrounded by family and loved ones.
The Grand Reception
That evening, the couple welcomed more than 300 guests to their grand reception in The Grand Hall at 701 Whaley. The décor reflected Shivani’s late mother’s love of peacocks, with jewel-toned florals, tassel installations, and a show-stopping cake by Bonnie Brunt Cakes. Shivani stunned in a white and gold ensemble paired with custom Nike dunks, while Jay wore a navy tuxedo. Guests enjoyed catering by City Grit Catering, live entertainment from East Coast Entertainment’s Men of Distinction, and unforgettable moments under the vibrant lighting of Ambient Media SC.

Colorful tassel installations and bold décor filled Shivani and Jay’s wedding reception at 701 Whaley.

An intimate embrace between Shivani and Jay at 701 Whaley, blending modern style with timeless romance.
Emotional Moments and Timeless Memories
One of the most moving elements of the weekend was how Shivani honored her late mother. She carried a charm featuring her mother’s photo during the ceremony and incorporated peacock-inspired colors throughout the décor to reflect her mom’s favorite motif. These personal touches made the entire event both joyful and deeply heartfelt.

A peacock-inspired floral installation honoring Shivani’s late mother at the couple’s wedding reception at 701 Whaley.
For us at Jessica Hunt Photography, capturing these intimate moments—whether it was the joyful dances of the Sangeet, the reverence of the ceremony, or Shivani and Jay’s editorial portraits at sunset outside 701 Whaley—was an incredible privilege. Weddings like this are a reminder of why we love what we do as a South Carolina Indian wedding photographer.

Shivani and Jay’s editorial wedding portraits at 701 Whaley in Columbia, South Carolina.
South Carolina Indian Wedding Photographer
Shivani and Jay’s three-day Indian wedding at 701 Whaley in Columbia, South Carolina was a breathtaking blend of tradition, culture, and modern luxury. From the sacred rituals of the Satak and ceremony to the joyful dancing of the Sangeet and the vibrant reception, every moment reflected their love story and honored their families.
If you are planning your own celebration and searching for a South Carolina Indian wedding photographer, our team at Jessica Hunt Photography would be honored to capture your story. Reach out today to begin planning your timeless, editorial wedding portraits.

Shivani and Jay’s bubble exit at 701 Whaley, celebrating their wedding night in style.
South Carolina Indian Wedding Creative Team:
Design & Planning: Melanie Murphy of By Invitation Only
Venue: 701 Whaley
Photography: Jessica Hunt Photography
Florals: Florist on Main
Cake Artist: Bonnie Brunt Cakes
Lighting: Ambient Media SC
Makeup Artist: Jamie Tran Beauty
Hair Artist: Houston of Metropolis Salon SC
Rentals: Crisp Event Rentals
Cinematography: 326 Films
Catering: City Grit Catering
Satak Décor: The Haathi Chai Decor
Barrat Horse: Camden Carriage Company
Band: Men of Distinction via East Coast Entertainment
Jewelry: Ala Couture by Ruma
Attire: Designer Vastra
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