Shivani & Anurag | Algarve, Portugal

Set against the dramatic cliffs of Portugal’s Algarve coast, Shivani and Anurag’s three-day Indian wedding celebration was an exquisite study in elegance, intention, and cultural storytelling. Hosted at the iconic Tivoli Carvoeiro, the weekend unfolded as a seamless journey through colour, tradition, and modern luxury — each moment designed with thought, artistry, and heart.

Styled and designed by CM Weddings & Events, and flawlessly planned by Dyana Dessar Luxury Weddings & Events, this destination celebration redefined what it means to blend heritage with contemporary sophistication.

A Global Love Story

Today, Shivani and Anurag call Los Angeles home, but their story is beautifully global. Shivani was born and raised in Kenya, where her Indian heritage has been interwoven with Kenyan culture for generations. Anurag was born in India, later relocating to California during his childhood. Though their beginnings were worlds apart, their shared values, cultural roots, and outlook on life brought them effortlessly together.

Both are driven by purpose: Shivani, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, dedicates her work to supporting children with autism, helping them build meaningful and independent lives. Anurag, a Data Science and Analytics professional, works within the technology sector in San Francisco. Grounded, intelligent, and deeply kind, they move through life as true partners.

Love in the Time of Uncertainty

Their journey began in early 2020 after matching on Hinge — just as the world stood still. During lockdown, their relationship grew through conversation, laughter, and emotional connection. With patience and resilience, they navigated uncertainty, distance, and health concerns, building a foundation rooted in friendship and trust.

When they finally met in person, the transition felt effortless — a continuation of something already deeply real. Four and a half years later, that sense of ease and understanding remains at the core of their relationship.

**A Proposal Among the Clouds**

In July 2023, Anurag proposed in **Malibu, California**, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Thousands of white rose petals, towering letters spelling *“Will You Marry Me”*, and the feeling of standing on a cloud — the moment was cinematic yet intimate. Surrounded by natural beauty and followed by celebrations with loved ones, it marked the beginning of their next chapter.

Why the Algarve

Portugal was a leap of faith — neither Shivani nor Anurag had visited before selecting it as their wedding destination. What they sought was an experience: immersive, effortless, and guest-centric.

With five Indian events across three days, Tivoli Carvoeiro offered the perfect setting — multiple venues within one resort, breathtaking Atlantic views, exceptional hospitality, and a walkable coastal town that invited guests to slow down and savour the destination. It was both refined and relaxed, dramatic yet welcoming — a perfect reflection of the couple themselves.

Designing a Multi-Day Experience

From the outset, Shivani and Anurag envisioned a celebration where each event felt entirely distinct, while still flowing cohesively across the weekend. Tradition was honoured, but never expected. Colour palettes were bold yet refined, themes immersive yet timeless.

Guests were welcomed with exquisitely curated welcome bags, thoughtfully placed in their hotel rooms ahead of arrival. Each bag carried a deeply personal touch from Shivani & Anurag — a reflection of their gratitude and love for every guest who had travelled to celebrate with them.

Inside, a beautifully assembled collection of meaningful gifts awaited. A soft shawl for the gentle April evenings. Traditional sweets from the Algarve. The region’s iconic peri-peri sauce and locally produced olive oil. A pastel de nata to savour — and inevitably wish for another. And finally, personalised fridge magnets inspired by the timeless blue-and-white hand-painted Portuguese tiles, a keepsake to remember the celebration long after the festivities had ended.

Shivani & Anurag arrived in the Algarve several days before their guests — not to rest or unwind, but to personally prepare each and every welcome bag themselves. It was a task they insisted on undertaking, wanting every detail to carry their own hands, their own care, and their own love.

Their dedication did not stop there. They made it a priority to be present for the arrival of their families and friends. As guests arrived by buses — seamlessly planned and coordinated by their wedding planners — Shivani & Anurag stood waiting, greeting each person individually as they stepped off, embracing them with warmth and heartfelt appreciation.

It was not simply a wedding celebration — it was a welcome filled with intention, generosity, and love.

A purple floral garden Haldi replaced the expected yellow, layered with texture and romance. An antique-inspired choora ceremony unfolded in rich maroons, rusts, and warm earth tones. The weekend culminated in an all-black gala-style reception, dramatic, modern, and undeniably elegant.

As stylists and decorators, CM Weddings & Events translated this vision into sculpted spaces filled with intention — where florals, lighting, materials, and layout worked together to create atmosphere and emotion. Every cultural detail was thoughtfully integrated, every design choice purposeful.

Fashion as Storytelling

Fashion played a central role in the narrative of the weekend. Shivani and Anurag wore traditional Indian attire for each celebration, selecting distinct silhouettes, embroidery, and colour stories to complement every event.

Equally important was comfort — allowing them to move freely, dance wholeheartedly, and remain fully present. The result was a wardrobe that felt elegant yet effortless, luxurious yet lived-in — a true extension of who they are.

Words from Their Wedding Planners

The team at Dyana Dessar Luxury Weddings & Events shared deeply heartfelt words about their experience with the couple:

“Working with Shivani and Anurag was a very special experience. From our first meeting, they were kind, considerate, and mindful of everyone’s time. They treated the entire team with such love and respect, and we all fell in love with them. This wedding truly reminded us why we do what we do.”

“Their planning journey was a dream. They were incredibly organised, thoughtful, and always prioritised their guests’ experience. They trusted our advice, embraced collaboration, and navigated time zones with constant positivity. Their wedding was a beautiful mix of Indian traditions, family unity, and their love story as a couple.”

A Celebration That Will Stay with Us Forever

Shivani and Anurag’s wedding was not just a series of beautifully designed events — it was a reflection of who they are: kind, intentional, generous, and deeply connected to those around them.

It was an honour for CM Weddings & Events to bring their vision to life and to work alongside such an extraordinary planning team. This celebration will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

a reminder that when love, trust, and creativity align, something truly extraordinary is created.