Vibrant Punjabi Wedding in Spokane, Washington: Hannah and Jora's Stunning Celebration
Vibrant Punjabi Wedding in Spokane, Washington: Hannah and Jora's Stunning Celebration
Introduction
Hannah and Jora’s Punjabi wedding in Spokane was a beautiful blend of tradition, culture, and heartfelt moments. From the vibrant pre-wedding celebrations at Jora's parents' house to the emotional Sikh ceremony and stunning couple portraits at Manito Park, every part of their multi-day event was filled with love and joy. As a photographer and videographer, it was a privilege to capture their day, from the lively dancing at the Jago to the quiet, intimate moments during their First Look. Before their wedding, I had the chance to photograph their breathtaking engagement session at Lake Como, which you can check out here. In this blog, I’ll share the highlights of their Punjabi wedding, along with tips for couples planning a similar celebration.
Table of Contents
Jora and Hannah’s Punjabi Wedding Timeline
Bride’s reaction to her Punjabi wedding film
Holy cow Shayna. We just watched the film and we have absolutely no words. It ended up sure enough with me bawling haha. That is truly the most incredible video and you captured both our days and love more perfectly than I ever imagined. The cuts and film and just everything is so special. I love everything about it I’m still in shock and will be for awhile. We will now always be able to relive those special days thanks to you we can truly never show how grateful we are for your time and energy. Thank you Shayna you are beyond talented
Groom’s reaction to his Punjabi wedding film
That is the greatest piece of work I have ever seen, thank you so much for capturing our wedding so elegantly Shayna, the clips from our engagement shoot just fit so well you’re so good!!!❤️😭😭😭
Jora and Hannah’s Punjabi Wedding Timeline
Hannah and Jora’s wedding was a beautiful blend of tradition, family, and modern celebration, filled with joy from start to finish. Their multi-day event included meaningful ceremonies and lively festivities that brought together their loved ones in Spokane, Washington. Here's a look at their full wedding timeline, starting with their pre-wedding rituals and continuing through their stunning wedding day.
Maiyan and Jago Ceremonies
Hannah and Jora's Maiyan and Jago ceremonies took place at Jora's parents' house, and I have to say, I loved this night almost more than the wedding the next day! The joy and energy were incredible. The day started with Hannah getting ready and joining Jora for some photos before the Maiyan ceremony, where turmeric paste was applied to Jora in a symbolic cleansing ritual. Afterward, Jora changed into his Jago outfit, and that’s when the real fun began.
Jora’s family gathered everyone in the front yard for the Jago ceremony, which quickly turned into a full-blown party. The dancing was so joyful, and everyone partied hard—it was one of the most fun nights I’ve ever captured. After a buffet-style dinner, the couple handed out suits and ties to family members in preparation for the wedding day. To top it all off, Hannah ended the night by changing into Jora’s mother’s wedding suit, which was really special and made the evening even more meaningful.
Getting ready bright and early
Hannah and Jora’s wedding day kicked off early, and the excitement was buzzing from the start. Hannah got ready at Jora’s sister Pavneet’s house, where the energy was high as hair and makeup started around 3:00 AM. Meanwhile, Jora’s house was packed—everyone was stoked and helping each other get ready, making the morning feel like a team effort with family jumping in wherever needed. By 7:00 AM, both Hannah and Jora were almost fully ready, with family photos and detail shots captured in the midst of all the activity. A fun moment in the morning was when Hannah’s grandpa and brother were figuring out their ties together—everyone was laughing and pitching in.
Once ready, Hannah and her family headed to meet Jora for their First Look at a nearby pathway. After the First Look, the women on Jora’s side helped Hannah and her mom with their head coverings, a sweet and thoughtful gesture that brought everyone together just before the ceremony. The morning was full of energy, excitement, and meaningful moments as they prepared for the big day.
First look
Hannah and Jora’s First Look in the alley outside the house was such a special moment. With the day being so packed and full of people, the First Look was a chance for them to have a quiet moment carved out just for the two of them. It gave them the space to connect, share their emotions, and really take in the significance of the day before jumping back into the whirlwind of events. The happy tears they both shed were a testament to how meaningful that moment was in the midst of the excitement — and we mightttt have a cried a little too lmao.
Punjabi Ceremony at Sikh Temple of Spokane
Hannah and Jora’s Punjabi wedding ceremony took place at the Sikh Temple of Spokane, a meaningful and spiritual part of their celebration. Surrounded by family and friends, they participated in traditional Sikh rituals that emphasized unity, love, and devotion. The ceremony was filled with prayers, blessings, and the reading of sacred scripture, creating a peaceful and reflective atmosphere. The couple sat together before the Guru Granth Sahib as they listened to the spiritual guidance, symbolizing their commitment to each other and to their faith. It was a beautiful moment of connection, not just between the couple, but also with their families and community.
Wedding Portraits at Manito Park
After their ceremony, Hannah and Jora headed to the stunning Manito Park for their couple’s portraits, and it couldn’t have been a more perfect location. Manito Park is an iconic spot in Spokane, known for its lush landscapes and serene atmosphere. My favorite part of the park is Duncan Garden, a European Renaissance-style garden with vibrant, colorful displays and beautifully manicured walkways that feel like they’re straight out of a fairytale. The meandering paths and perfectly arranged flowers made for an incredible backdrop, capturing the romantic and elegant vibe of Hannah and Jora’s wedding day. It was a peaceful and intimate moment for the couple, surrounded by the beauty of the park after the excitement of the morning. I also loved how many people came up to them and complemented their outfits!!
Punjabi Reception
Hannah and Jora’s Punjabi reception was full of energy, tradition, and celebration, starting with traditional Punjabi wedding games at the groom’s house. Guests gathered to join in the fun as the couple played these lively games, setting a joyful tone for the evening. After the games, Hannah changed into a striking red suit, while Jora opted for a classic black suit, both looking stunning for the reception.
The celebration continued outdoors under a tent with a cake-cutting ceremony that felt intimate and joyful. Guests were later treated to a delicious dinner featuring traditional Punjabi cuisine, a perfect complement to the vibrant atmosphere. As the evening unfolded, the dance floor came alive with music and dancing. Hannah and Jora were at the center of it all, surrounded by family and friends, with plenty of candid moments captured throughout the night.
Real Punjabi Wedding Timeline: Hannah and Jora’s Spokane Celebration
Pre-Ceremony
2:30/3:00 AM | Makeup and Hair Preparation
Makeup team arrives for the bride (Hannah) and family members (Jen, Pavneet, Sukhleen, Pavan, Harjinder, Aly).
Hair stylists arrive shortly after for the same group.
7:00 AM | Groom’s Preparation
Groom (Jora) begins getting ready, with photo and video team capturing the process.
7:00 AM | Bride’s Final Touches
Bride (Hannah) is nearly ready by 7:00 AM, with final touch-ups and details.
7:15 AM | Getting Ready Shots & Family Photos
Both bride and groom are photographed with their families, and detail shots are taken to capture the morning preparations.
7:50 AM | Bride Departs for First Look
Hannah and her family leave for the First Look location.
First Look & Pre-Ceremony Photos
8:30 AM | First Look
The bride and groom share their First Look, followed by additional photos until it’s time to depart for the ceremony.
Ceremony (Sikh Temple)
9:30 AM | Depart for Ceremony Venue
Bride and groom leave in separate cars to the temple.
9:50 AM | Arrival at Temple
Both the bride and groom arrive separately. The bride waits in a designated room until the ceremony begins.
10:00 AM | Milni & Ardaas
A traditional Milni and Ardaas ceremony is held outside the temple with the priest, family, and guests.
10:30 AM | Breakfast
Guests and family enjoy breakfast.
11:00 AM | Sikh Wedding Ceremony
The formal wedding ceremony begins inside the temple, with prayers and blessings.
11:45 AM | Ceremony Concludes
The ceremony concludes, marking the couple’s union.
12:00 PM | Luncheon
Guests are served lunch while the couple prepares for post-ceremony photos.
12:00 - 1:00 PM | Family & Friends Photos
Photos are taken with family and friends inside the temple following a pre-planned photo list.
Post-Ceremony
1:00 PM | Couple Photos
The bride and groom leave the temple for couple photos in a scenic location.
2:30 PM | Return to Groom’s Family Home
After couples’ photos, they return to the groom’s house.
Reception & Celebration
3:00 PM | Traditional Games
Upon arriving at the groom’s house, traditional Punjabi wedding games are played for about 45 minutes.
3:45 PM | Outfit Change
The bride changes into a red suit, and the groom changes into a black suit for the reception.
4:00 PM | Cake Cutting
A cake-cutting ceremony takes place outdoors under a tent.
5:45 PM | Dinner
Guests are served dinner, featuring traditional Punjabi cuisine.
6:00 - 9:00 PM | Reception and Dancing
The evening reception features music, dancing, and plenty of celebration. The bride and groom are the focal point for the photo and video team, who capture candid moments throughout the event.
7:45 PM | Bride and Groom Departure
The couple plans to leave by 7:45 PM, at which point the photo and video team can also wrap up.
Spokane Wedding Vendors for the Bolenas’ Punjabi Wedding
Photo and Video Team: Montana Diaries (Shayna Lloyd) + Elizabeth & Samuel (Morgan & Aaron)
Planner/Coordinator: Jora’s sister, Pavneet, helped coordinate
Makeup Artist: Angie (Blissful Beauty by Angie)
Hair Stylist: Kayla Brissey
Officiant: Priest at Sikh Temple of Spokane
Cake/Dessert: Sweet Frostings Bakery
DJ/Band: Maninder Singh Bahga
Bride’s Outfit: Custom-made in India, purchased from a shop in Surrey, BC
Groom’s Suit: Vivian Collections, Surrey, BC
Venue (Reception): Groom's aunt and uncle’s backyard (Harjinder and Cal), who worked hard on preparing it for the big day!!
Punjabi wedding photographer and videographer
If you're planning a Punjabi wedding in Spokane or the surrounding areas, hiring a photographer/videographer with experience in cultural traditions is key. I've worked at beautiful locations like Manito Park and the Sikh Temple of Spokane, and I love capturing the vibrant energy of Punjabi celebrations, from emotional moments during the ceremony to the joyful dancing at the reception. My style blends candid, earthy photography with cinematic video, ensuring your wedding story is told authentically. For more details on packages and pricing, visit my info page.
