Sophie & Karma Shakya
When Anne-Sophie, a Disaster Risk Management Coordinator married Karma Shakya, acclaimed actor and theatre artist, their wedding became a beautiful celebration of love, culture and personal joy. From blending Nepali and French traditions to last-minute surprises that fell perfectly into place, their day was filled with unforgettable moments, laughter and meaningful rituals. In this intimate reflection, they open up about the memories they created, the role of their families, the humorous mishaps, and the little things that keep their connection strong. Theirs is a marriage rooted in joy, respect and togetherness.
What was the most unforgettable moment from your wedding day; something maybe only you both truly know?
Sophie and Karma: For us, the most unforgettable part was how everything miraculously fell into place. Despite all the effort, many key elements – our outfits, jewellery, makeup, cake, band, even venue – came together only at the last minute. We were balancing work, guests from abroad, and a move from Nepal to Malawi, yet it all exceeded our expectations.
The wedding gown by UK-based Nepali designer Sanyukta Shrestha, the Daura by Khushbu Dangol, and jewellery crafted by Karma’s cousin all blended the traditions beautifully. From Hotel Vajra, tied to Karma’s theatre days, to our antique Gypsy decorated last-minute, every detail felt unexpectedly perfect and deeply personal.
What’s a tradition you included that made your wedding feel personal to you?
Sophie and Karma: We come from rich, distinct cultures, and both take great pride in this heritage. So, while our wedding was in Nepal, we wanted to weave in a few French touches. From pairing Newari food with French wine, bien sûr! To gifting our guests traditional French dragées (sugar-coated almonds and chocolates) which we wrapped in Newari mheecha pouches, of course—with some supadi (betel nut) for good measure… it was a simple but symbolic way of tying our worlds together.
Did you have any funny mishaps, wardrobe surprises, or behind-the-scenes moments that still make you laugh?
Karma: As a kid, I would lick serving spoons, and my mom warned it would bring rain on my wedding day, a common Nepali superstition. So, planning a monsoon wedding had me on edge. The night before, it poured in Patan where my father had arranged a bhoj in my grandfather’s bahal for nearly a thousand guests, and we feared the worst. But by morning, the skies cleared and the day unfolded perfectly… an unforgettable gift we still smile about. And then came a mystery: my wife’s wedding shoes vanished that night, never to be found, borrowed or even ransomed, something we still laugh about.
How did your families shape or influence the celebration?
Sophie and Karma: Sophie’s family, a blend of Catholics and Protestants (a significant distinction when her parents married decades ago in France), had no issue embracing the Buddhist tradition for our ceremony. The challenge was more about explaining the rituals for her parents and curious friends while most of our friends and family confessed that they themselves only had a limited understanding of what the priest was doing at the time of their own weddings… they just followed along! So, at least everyone was on the same page. With the exception, of course, of those we have all met who passionately debate with the priest on the day about what should happen next! Thankfully, Karma’s mom – who never misses a chance to organise a puja (worship rituals) – happily took the lead and helped guide everyone through.
What surprised you most about married life that no one ever told you about?
Sophie and Karma: That it does not have to change everything! People often say marriage transforms your life overnight but we have taken a more relaxed approach. We are still learning, still growing, and trying not to overthink it. With our busy careers keeping us apart often, we have learned to enjoy both the togetherness and the distance; it makes reunions feel like mini-celebrations. Though, true to form, we still argue like kids whenever we play cards – one of our favourites, most competitive shared activity.
What’s one little ritual or habit you and your partner have that keeps the spark alive?
Sophie and Karma: No matter where we are in the world, we never miss saying good morning (bonjour) and good night (bonne nuit). It’s our daily ritual, a way to stay close even across time zones and not take each other for granted. The only time we broke that habit was when I was filming Shambhala in Upper Dolpo, completely off-grid, and she was responding to a cyclone. But that is a story for another day!
Smita Dahal & Sayujya Shrestha
Smita Dahal, a celebrated Nepali singer known for hits like Mayalu Timi Kata Chhau and Aama, recently tied the knot with Sayujya Shrestha, an entrepreneur carrying forward his family business. Their wedding was a blend of Brahmin and Newari traditions. From emotional moments that felt like time stood still to playful rituals that filled the day with laughter, every detail spoke of love, intimacy and togetherness. In this conversation, Smita and Sayujya open up about the memories, surprises and little rituals that continue to make their bond grow stronger each day.
What was the most unforgettable moment from your wedding day; something only you and your partner truly noticed?
Smita and Sayujya: The most unforgettable moment for us was when Smita walked down the aisle and stepped onto the stage. As our eyes met, we both noticed the tears welling up in each other’s eyes, matched by the smallest, most knowing smile. It was such a brief moment, yet it carried the weight of everything we had been through together. In that instant, it felt like the world faded away, and the entire day belonged just to us.
What’s one tradition you included that made your wedding feel personal to you?
Smita: I wanted my entrance to feel truly special, so I made it the most personalised part of our wedding. Instead of walking toward Sayujya to traditional music, I surprised him with a song I had recorded in my own voice, dedicated entirely to him. It was my way of pouring my heart into the ceremony, and it instantly made the moment more intimate and meaningful. Walking down the aisle to my own voice was incredibly emotional, transforming what could have been a standard tradition into something uniquely ours.
Did you have any funny mishaps, wardrobe surprises, or behind-the-scenes moments that still make you laugh?
Smita and Sayujya: A moment that still makes us laugh is when Smita’s sister stole Sayujya’s shoes from the stage and ran. Everyone burst out laughing, and it instantly turned into one of the funniest highlights of the day. Later, when it was time to get the shoes back, the bargaining began. There was so much teasing, cheering and laughter from both families that it felt like its own little celebration. Those playful moments added so much joy to the wedding and reminded us how love and laughter truly go hand in hand.
How did your families shape or influence the celebration?
Smita and Sayujya: Since it is an inter-caste marriage, we wanted to honour both our traditions, and our families made that happen beautifully, without any hassle. Sayujya’s family brought in their rituals, and Smita’s added their personal touches, so the day felt like a perfect blend of both cultures. Everyone laughed, danced and celebrated together, making it feel effortless and joyful. What stood out most was how naturally our families came together, respecting each other while creating memories that reflected both sides. It made the wedding feel truly inclusive, meaningful and deeply personal for all of us.
What surprised you most about married life that no one ever told you?
Smita and Sayujya: The thing that surprised us most is how marriage makes the everyday feel extraordinary. Sharing meals, laughing about nothing, or just sitting together quietly can suddenly feel like the most important part of the day. We did not expect that love would grow in these small, ordinary moments rather than big gestures. It is in the comfort of companionship, the gentle understanding, and the shared routines that I have found the deepest happiness. Married life has shown me that the beauty of love often lies in the little things we might take for granted, and that is what keeps it so real and lasting.
What’s one little ritual or habit you and your partner have that keeps the spark alive?
Smita and Sayujya: At the end of each day, we take a few minutes just for ourselves. No phones, no distractions, just time together. We talk about our day, share our thoughts, and connect in a way that feels private and meaningful. These small moments have become a daily ritual, helping us stay close and connected no matter how busy life gets. It is a simple habit, but it strengthens our bond and reminds us of the love and partnership that forms the heart of our relationship.
Sreani Khatiwada & Gaurav Pahari
Mental Health Counselor and Social Worker Sreani Khatiwada, and actor, Gaurav Pahari, known for his memorable roles in Saili, Hostel and Manjari tied the knot in a celebration that was as heartfelt as it was joyful. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, the couple embraced traditions, laughter, and unforgettable moments that made their wedding uniquely theirs. In this conversation, Sreani and Gaurav share the emotions, surprises and rituals that shaped their big day, and reflect on the little habits that continue to keep the spark alive today.
What was the most unforgettable moment from your wedding day; something only you and your partner truly noticed?
Gaurav: Looking back, the entire day felt unforgettable, from the moment we arrived at the venue to when it all ended, every second was filled with meaning. The thought that my partner was about to become my wife was beyond words, and seeing the joy on the faces of our closest family and friends made it even more special. But the moment that will stay with me forever was when I applied sindoor on her. The connection I felt right then was unlike anything else; it was the instant it truly sank in that this was it, we were bound together for life.
What’s a tradition you included that made your wedding feel personal to you?
Sreani and Gaurav: Among all the wedding traditions, the mehndi felt the most personal and special to us. It brought together our closest family and friends in such a joyful way, filled with laughter, emotions and togetherness. Looking back, it was not just a ceremony, it became one of the best memories of our lives.
Did you have any funny mishaps, wardrobe surprises, or behind-the-scenes moments that still make you laugh?
Gaurav: There were quite a few! During our photoshoot, my wife kept slipping because her lehenga was so heavy; she had this funny way of walking that had us all laughing. And then there was the moment with the handkerchief game, it turned into absolute chaos! Everyone was pulling from both sides, people toppled off their chairs, and we actually ended up breaking four or five of them. Looking back, those moments still make us laugh the hardest.
How did your families shape or influence the celebration?
Sreani and Gaurav: Our families played an irreplaceable role in making our wedding truly special. Their presence, involvement and blessings gave the entire celebration a sense of warmth and belonging that we will always cherish. A wedding is not just about two people coming together, it is about the joining of two families, traditions and bonds. Having our loved ones around us made every ritual more meaningful and every moment more joyful. From the smallest details to the celebrations, their love and support reminded us that this journey is not just ours, it is shared with everyone who stood by us on that day.
What surprised you most about married life that no one ever told you?
Gaurav: What surprised me most was the little everyday changes. I was used to waking up alone but now I wake up next to my wife which feels comforting and special. I also discovered something no one ever told me: apparently, I snore a lot!
What’s one little ritual or habit you and your partner have that keeps the spark alive?
Sreani and Gaurav: We make it a point to have our little date days and share almost everything with each other whether it’s the good or the not-so-good. That openness has kept the spark alive, and we truly believe that giving time to your partner is one of the most important things in marriage.
Aakriti Rajya Laxmi Shah & Sahil Pyakurel
Aakriti Rajya Laxmi Shah, a lifestyle and beauty content creator and Sahil Pyakurel, a software engineer celebrated a wedding filled with moments that were both deeply personal and beautifully unique. From the unforgettable instant when they first saw each other in their wedding look (Aakriti in her very first saree, saved for that day) to the all-white floral décor that let tradition meet modern elegance, every detail had their signature on it. With families blending cultures seamlessly and even a forgotten garland turning into laughter, their wedding was simply joyous. Now, they cherish everyday love, little rituals and date nights that keep their bond alive.
What was the most unforgettable moment from your wedding day; something only you and your partner truly noticed?
Aakriti and Sahil: The moment we saw each other for the first time in our wedding looks was unforgettable. Sahil had been waiting eight years for that moment, it felt surreal watching Aakriti walk down as a bride. For her, it was extra special because it was the very first time she ever wore a saree, especially a red one. Her mom had always told her to save that moment for her wedding day and it made everything feel even more meaningful.
When our eyes met, it felt like the world froze around us.
What’s a tradition you included that made your wedding feel personal to you?
Aakriti and Sahil: We went with an all-white floral décor which is quite unusual for Nepali weddings where red usually dominates. The idea was to let the red outfits be the star while keeping the backdrop elegant and neutral. It felt like the perfect way to modernise tradition while still letting the cultural essence shine.
Did you have any funny mishaps, wardrobe surprises or behind-the-scenes moments that still make you laugh?
Aakriti and Sahil: Definitely! We actually forgot to bring the swayamvar garlands and did not realise it until the ceremony was about to begin. Cue panic because it is the very first ritual of the wedding. Luckily, our amazing planners from Royal Voyage saved the day and pulled it off in time. Looking back, it was both terrifying and hilarious, and now it is one of our favourite funny memories.
How did your families shape or influence the celebration?
Aakriti and Sahil: Our families truly shaped the wedding by embracing each other’s cultures and rituals. Even though we come from different castes and different regions of Nepal, both sides were incredibly open and respectful. That adaptability turned what could have been differences into a beautiful blend of traditions, making the celebrations feel like one united family.
What surprised you most about married life that no one ever told you?
Aakriti and Sahil: We realised that love is not just about constant butterflies. It is about patience, commitment and showing up for each other in small, everyday ways. Not every day is exciting but love shows up in kindness, service and partnership. That balance between romance and teamwork is what has surprised us most, in the best way.
What’s one little ritual or habit you and your partner have that keeps the spark alive?
Aakriti and Sahil: We have kept up our little date nights just like before marriage. Dressing up, exploring new restaurants, and trying different cuisines keeps things exciting while giving us dedicated time together. It is a simple ritual, but one that reminds us marriage is not about losing the fun, it is about creating new memories side by side.
