Traditional Indian Wedding in Antigua Guatemala
Sahithi & Kanna
The Backdrop
Antigua Guatemala has become one of the world’s most versatile backdrops for destination weddings. Couples come here from across the globe, drawn by the historic ruins, colonial streets, and natural beauty of the surrounding volcanoes. What makes Antigua unique is how seamlessly it hosts all types of weddings, from Catholic ceremonies in the city’s cathedrals to vibrant South Asian celebrations rich with tradition.
This was the case for Sahithi and Kanna, who brought their Indian–Sri Lankan destination wedding to Antigua Guatemala and blended it with local Guatemalan flair. Their multi-day celebration included every tradition such as: Mehndi, Haldi, Baraat, the Mandap ceremony, and Sangeet, honoring their heritage while experiencing the city’s historic beauty.
Sahithi & Kanna at Porta Hotel in Antigua Guatemala
THE WEDDING
Sahithi & Kanna wedding portraits on the cobblestone streets of Antigua Guatemala
The celebrations began with a welcome dinner at Casa Troccoli for all of Sahithi and Kanna’s wedding vendors and creative partners in Antigua. A thoughtful gesture that set the tone for the days ahead. It reflected the true spirit of hosting a wedding in Antigua, where professional planners, florists, and us photographers often collaborate as friends, united by a shared love for wedding culture and the work we do.
The next day began at Porta Hotel Antigua, where family and friends gathered before portraits in the city streets. Getting ready was a celebration in itself: Sahithi dressed in a richly embroidered lehenga, her hands decorated with mehndi designs, while Kanna prepared in a traditional sherwani. Families exchanged blessings, jewelry was adjusted, and every detail carried cultural meaning. These first moments set the tone for the multi-day celebration.
The next day, the Haldi Ritual filled the courtyard at the Porta with yellow. Family and friends blessed the couple by applying turmeric paste, sprinkling flower petals, and pouring water over Sahithi and Kanna. Laughter echoed as marigolds and sunflowers surrounded them, the ceremony blending sacred ritual with joy. A piñata added a playful, local touch to incorporate Guatemalan culture to the festivities, and an ice-cream cart brought a sweet ending to the morning’s celebration before guests rested for the evening events.
Between events, Sahithi and Kanna walked Antigua’s cobblestone streets and colonial ruins in their wedding ensembles. Their portraits truly showcased both the richness of South Asian tradition and the historic elegance of Antigua.
The wedding ceremony was held at the Santa Clara Ruins, under a floral mandap filled with roses, marigolds, and lush greenery. Family and guests gathered, many with attire that added another layer of stunning colors to the backdrop as the couple exchanged garlands, circled the sacred fire, and received blessings. The ancient stone backdrop of Antigua’s ruins added gravity to centuries-old rituals, creating a union that felt both timeless and authentic.
The celebrations continued into the night at Santa Clara, and Sahithi changed into a sparkling gold lehenga by designer Sunaina Khera. Guests toasted the couple with cocktails by Ulew, coffee by Artista de Café, dinner catered by Porque No Café, and desserts by Muriel and Dulces Doña María. Against the dramatic ruins lit by candlelight and stars, the reception closed the wedding with joy, love, and a whole lot of energy.
Hosting a traditional Indian wedding in Antigua Guatemala proves that every ritual—from Mehndi to Haldi to the mandap ceremony and reception—can be honored abroad. The vibrant colors, cultural attire, and sacred traditions blended seamlessly with Antigua’s dramatic backdrops, making it an unforgettable destination for Sahithi and Kanna.
We at Joseph Nance are known for documenting weddings with inclusivity at the core. Our work goes beyond beautiful images, it respects and honors cultural traditions, capturing them authentically so couples and their families see themselves reflected in every frame.
This celebration came to life through the vision of Muckayi Events, with florals and décor by Addy Florales, videography by Rodrigo Zadro, behind-the-scenes coverage by Federica of Behind the Bride, and make-up by Monica N. Boppel.
Continue scrolling to enjoy the full gallery of Sahithi and Kanna’s traditional Indian wedding. If you’re considering getting married in Guatemala we’d love to hear from you! Book Joseph Nance Photography or Inquire About Your Wedding Date
To see more destination wedding photography in Antigua, Guatemala follow along on Instagram at @josephnancephoto. If you’re considering getting married in Guatemala we’d love to hear from you! Book Joseph Nance Photography or Inquire About Your Wedding Date.
