Our parents were arranged to be married 35 years ago and they are as strong as ever today. Back in their day, the parents met, then the bride and groom met, then a month later they were sitting in a mandap together. Maybe that’s why people in our generation fear the “arranged marriage.” Well let us tell you – arranged marriages are still around, a little tweaked, but still standing strong. Sheena met Samir (her husband) through Nina who went to college in the same town as he did (Philly). It was arranged in the traditional sense in that they were introduced with the intent of marriage – but adding a little modern element – they dated for a little under a year before Samir asked Dad for Sheena’s hand. Fast foward 10 years – they have a beautiful life, beautiful kids, and a beautiful future ahead of them! So many of our friends have also met their significant others through dating websites and the likes! Get to know the modern day arranged marriage – we can vouch that it really works!!! We’d also love to hear about your “modern day arranged marriage” in the comment section below!
Vow Renewal Photos By: Attimi Photography, Turks & Caicos (2013) Wedding Photo By: Jay Seth Photography (2003) Family Portrait Photo By: AFM Photography by Stephanie Murphy
hi, I am not Indian but as a single female on the dating scene for many years I would be open to an arranged marriage. Maybe there is something to be said about it. I am at my wits end in finding love and have tried online, speed dating and set ups. Its very tough.
Thanks for your comment. We also know many that are in your shoes and understand that it is hard. Our advice is to never loose hope and always remain open minded.
I agree with Tracey, it’s very tough and this article, though well intentioned and expressing a lovely story, invalidates the reality of wonderful, beautiful women who have tried again and again, kept an open mind, and simply have not had the luck. Unlike your other how-to and informative posts, this one was slightly disappointing, it’s really not that simple unfortunately.
Dear Dina, we absolutely understand that it’s not that simple… It wasn’t simple for us and we know it’s not simple for others… We posted this experience to share our personal story and remind everyone that love is found in so many different ways. As always, we truly appreciate the feedback.
Dear Dina, We absolutely understand that it’s not that simple… It wasn’t simple for us and we know it’s not simple for others… We posted this experience to share our personal story and remind everyone that love is found in so many different ways. As always, we truly appreciate the feedback.
I took it a step further chasing this ancient tradition back to its roots! Who would have thought I’d follow in Sheena’s footsteps, arrange a marriage with a guju boy and live “the dream” or just her dream of living in India. 🙂 Great article girls; Nina gets all the credit!!
Thanks! So happy you listened to your heart and are now with your prince charming!
Hello.. what a great story. I have similar story. I had been inand out of good relationships for about 10 years. None of them worked out for marriage. At the age of 28 after spending much of my youth exploring life and being free and travelling I decided I really wanted to be married so I could have a partner and a companion. I am very liberal and non conformist so to find someone int hat calibre was going to be difficult in an arranged marriage situation…. so I thought. After being introduced to quite a few boys who were also wanting to get married but under the arranged system I was getting very disponded as they were very conservative. I stood my ground, which at that time ( 23 years ago) was difficult to do. However I did get introduced to my husband by my Kaki whose daughter was also looking. This propasal did not work out for her daughter and so she called my mother. Interestingly at the time the two families were not even on talking terms, and so naturally I got suspicious as to ehr motives. Any way I decided to meet him ( blind date), only because I loved his name ( unusual: ANushil). He was aslo doing a phd which impressed me. We arranged to meet at a coffe/bar place..As I was walking towards it there weret wo single guys sitting. I had no idea which one it would be.. so I picked the better looking guy…to my disappointment he was drinking oran
ge juice! So I ordered the same… after tlaking for 15 minutes we both looked at each other and at the same time said ” sod this…. do you want a beer?” In knew at that moment he was going to be my guy…. after 23 years of ups and downs we are still strong and may I add stronger then ever!!! We are now the best friends every couple should be… open and free wioth each other about everything… and retain our own identity and independence as well as being the wife, friend, and mother as each role takes shape…..there is much to be said about arranged marriage with a twist!
Thank you so much for sharing your story! We are so happy that you found your happy ending!
just to note… no ending… just the beginning… of a wonderful and infinite journey!
Absolutely! End of your search and beginning of an amazing journey!