Palazzo Borghese

Mehndi/Haldi

Baraat & Sangeet

Villa Medicea di Lilliano

Ceremony & Reception

Villa Medicea di Lilliano: La Torre Residences

Farewell Brunch & Pool Party

***Formal Invites will go out in January. However, we would appreciate a soft RSVP by December if you know you will likely be able to make it or most likely not be able to make it.

From Kristian & Sanj

We are planning a creative Indian- American fusion celebration and three day experience, honoring the blending of our two worlds. We are excited for guests to be able to experience the blending of cultures within a bustling city followed by the peaceful countryside. We cannot wait to celebrate with our favorite people in such a special location!

Our Wedding

Our Story

The first date

Kristian and Sanj's love story begins the way most love stories do these days, with a swipe and a match on Hinge. Kristian had recently moved to Houston for work. Sanj was a busy third year medical student in the middle of her OBGYN rotation. Given their schedules and track record with dating, they both figured the odds were long. They met on a Sunday evening in October 2023 at Agora, a coffee shop that's a staple in the Houston community. The first topic was travel, since Kristian had just returned from a work trip in Europe, and they learned they each had ties to Denmark: Sanj studied abroad there in college, and Kristian's great-grandmother immigrated from there. They continued the date at another coffee shop, talking for over three hours. Sanj was drawn to Kristian's quiet confidence and worldly intellect. He was captured by her bubbly personality, her dedication to becoming a doctor, and the way she cared so deeply about her friends and family.

Falling in love

While they were both initially treading very carefully, they soon recognized there was something special between them. In the early spring, they took a trip to Fredericksburg (during a winter storm) where Sanj told Kristian she loved him and soon after, Kristian asked Sanj to be his girlfriend. Kristian continued to win Sanj over by making her delicious homemade meals and dancing with her &amp; her extended family all night at an Indian wedding. They became each other's steady sounding board, showing up consistently. Sanj especially loved the way Kristian embraced her dog, Milo, his strong moral compass, and the way he cared deeply for others. Over the course of the next few months, they recognized that they shared similar values, priorities, beliefs, and outlooks for the future. In August of 2024, just 8 months after becoming official, but unaware of where their careers would take them, they moved in together.

Career + Life

They continued to support each other’s highly demanding lives. Kristian served as Sanj’s rock throughout the rest of her clinical year of medical school, the brutal STEP 2 exam, the rigorous dermatology application cycle, including months of audition rotations where he flew to visit her in cities across the country. Sanj was unwavering in her support and belief in him as he grew his company &amp; faced many unique challenges and uncertainty as a start up founder. They also blended their worlds together seamlessly, sharing Thanksgiving 2024 in Austin as Kristian’s parents and brother flew to Texas to spend the holiday with Sanj, her mom, stepdad, &amp; sister. Within this time, they (impulsively) decided to adopt a stray dog, picking her up directly from the streets of Houston. Toffee is now the biggest daddy’s girl and along with her brother, Milo, is the center of their world. In spring 2025, they were ecstatic when Sanj graduated medical school having matched into Dermatology residency in Houston, where Kristian’s company is based and Sanj’s parents live. However, as Sanj’s intern year was in Fort Worth, they had a year of long distance ahead of them. They successfully navigated long distance, learning how to become even better communicators, making them stronger than ever.

The proposal

In December 2025, halfway through their year of long distance, they flew to Aruba to get their scuba diving licenses. Kristian had been carrying the ring for three months and knew he wanted to propose on the trip, but Sanj had asked to be surprised, which was proving difficult since she's usually the trip planner and had made a busy itinerary. On December 27th, they had a national park tour planned. Kristian found the guide's info on Sanj's phone and got him in on the plan. After three hours of hiking and swimming in the ocean, the guide took them to the remote Quadirikiri Cave, where Kristian got down on one knee. It was intimate and beautiful, with the light from outside shining into the rock formation in the shape of a heart, all thoughtfully planned ahead. Sanj was caught completely off guard, but had zero doubts. They called their family and closest friends, then got to enjoy the rest of the trip as an engaged couple.

The Now

In their free time, they enjoy spending time with friends family, taking their dogs to the dog park, playing competitive games of pickleball, eating at restaurants, and exploring fun nightlife.They also share a love for exploring the world! Together they have traveled to over 15 cities and 6 (&amp; counting) countries, lifted each other up through extremely busy careers and life challenges, and embraced each others’ families, friends, &amp; traditions. They also recently became first time home owners! They will be in Houston for at least three more years &amp; then are open to where life takes them!

Weekend Itinerary 

Events and Descriptions

Friday, August 27th 2027Mehndi &amp; HaldiFriday, August 27 2027 from 10 AM to 1:30 PMVenue: Palazzo Borghese in Florence City CentreMehndi stations will be open starting at 10 AM.Light refreshments will be served including delicious Chai.Mehndi (also called henna) is a beautiful South Asian tradition where intricate designs are drawn on the hands in a natural plant-based paste, symbolizing joy, beauty, and good luck for the couple. Come say hello to the couple, enjoy some music, and get a henna design of your own if you'd like (guests of all backgrounds encouraged to participate).Haldi ceremony will begin at ** sharp and will last until ** The haldi ceremony is one of the most playful and heartfelt pre-wedding traditions. A paste made of turmeric is lovingly applied to the bride and groom by family and friends as a blessing for a radiant glow, good health, and a happy marriage ahead. Expect laughter, color, and a few turmeric-covered faces.A delicious Indian "street food" style lunch will be served.The morning events and lunch will conclude at 1:30 PM. You can come and go as you please, but please RSVP if you plan on attending.Baraat followed by Sangeet Friday, August 27 2027 from 5:15 PM to 10:30 PMVenue: Palazzo Borghese in Florence City CentreBaraat at 5:15 PMThe Baraat is the groom's wedding procession, a joyful parade of music and dancing as Kristian makes his way to the celebration, surrounded by his family and friends. Led by a live dhol player (a traditional double-sided drum that you'll feel in your chest), the baraat is a moving dance party. Join in as we take over the Florence street and dance him in!Sangeet at 6 PMBuffet style dinner at 6 PM and open bar provided.The sangeet a night of music, games, dancing, and incredible food in celebration of the couple. Literally meaning "sung together," the sangeet is where both families come together to let loose. Expect choreographed performances from the bridal party, family, and friends, a few games to keep things lively, dinner, and plenty of open dance floor. Whether you're performing, cheering, or just here for the dancing, this night is all about bringing everyone together before we say "I do."

Saturday, August 28th 2027Ceremony &amp; Reception4 PM to 1 AM Venue: Villa Medicea di Liliano in the Tuscan countryside(20-25 minutes from the city centre)Ceremony at 4 PM SharpExpect the symbolic ceremony to last 30 minutes. It will be outdoors and expect it to be hot. Parasols will be provided.Cocktail Hour at 4:30 PMOutdoor cocktail hour. Open bar, garden and countryside views, plenty of photo opportunities, live entertainment provided.Dinner &amp; Reception at 6 PM3 course seated dinner paired with wine from the Medici estate will be served followed by speeches, dances and a live band.After Party at 10:30 PM to 1 AMLet's keep the party going inside with a DJ. Late night bites provided at midnight.

Sunday, August 29th 2027Farewell Lunch &amp; Italian Pool Party11 AM to 3 PMVenue: La Torre Residences at the Villa Medicea di Liliano in the Tuscan countryside(20-25 minutes from the city centre)Pizza, Spritz, &amp; Gelato Provided from 11 AM to 2 PMCome relax by the garden and soak in the incredible countryside views, dip in the pool when it gets hot &amp; say farewell to the couple and family.

Weekend Overview

Getting Around

ShuttlesWe're providing shuttles between central Florence and the villa on both Saturday and Sunday. This is the easiest way to get to and from the wedding, and it's the only option we can promise will work at 1:00 AM on Saturday.If you're staying in central Florence, we recommend planning on using the shuttle and skipping the rental car. Exact pickup locations and a sign-up will be posted here by May 2027 so we know how many seats to book. Friday's events are at Palazzo Borghese in the city itself, which is walkable or a short taxi ride from most hotels.TaxisTaxis work well in Florence during the day, but with two caveats. First, Uber barely operates here; you'll be using regular taxis, which you hail at a rank, call, or book through the FREENOW or ITaxi app or you can have someone at the hotel or airport book it. Second, taxis will not reliably come out to a villa in the hills late at night, and there won't be any waiting outside after the event. If you're skipping the shuttle, we recommend booking your return ride in advance and confirming it the day of, or coordinating with other guests staying nearby. A pre-booked private driver (NCC) is the most dependable option for anyone staying outside the city, and it's worth splitting one with friends. Not all taxis carry a credit card reader, so we recommend carrying cash just in case.Rental CarsOnly rent a car if you're staying outside the city and you're comfortable with narrow Italian country roads, roundabouts, and parking that is more suggestion than system. If you're staying in central Florence, a car is a liability: much of the historic center is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL) enforced by cameras that will mail you a fine months after you're home. You cannot drive into it, even to reach your hotel, without your hotel registering your plate in advance.If you do rent:- Get an International Driving Permit before you leave. Most US drivers need one alongside their license, and AAA issues them same-day.- Book an automatic early. Most Italian rentals are manual, and automatics sell out in August.Pick up at the airport or Santa Maria Novella station, not in the city, so you're never tempted to cross into the ZTL.- Plan for the villa. There is parking on site, but the drive back to Florence after the reception is dark, winding, and best done by someone who hasn't been enjoying the open bar. If that's likely to be you, take the shuttle up and leave the car for your day trips instead.The car would make sense if you’re planning trips out to Chianti, Siena, or other parts of Italy for the rest of your trip. In our opinion, it doesn’t make sense for the wedding weekend itself.If you are planning on parking at the wedding venue, please let us know as there are only 20 available spots!

Airports & Trains

The closest airport is Florence Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR), just 15–20 minutes from the city center. It's a small airport, so many international guests will connect through a major European hub (Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, etc.) rather than flying direct from the US. It is a very easy airport to get in and out of. Taxis can be called right from the airport for $30-$50 to the city centre. If you are planning on renting a car, please be aware that parking is tough if you are staying in the Florence city center and plan ahead with your accommodation.Three alternatives: Pisa Airport (PSA), about an hour from Florence by direct train, Bologna Airport (BLQ), about 35–40 minutes by train from Bologna Centrale to Florence's Santa Maria Novella station. If you find a great fare into Rome, the high-speed train from Rome to Florence takes about 1.5 hours. We recommend arriving by Thursday, August 26 at the latest so you're rested for a full weekend of celebrating! If it is possible for your travel plans, we encourage taking time before or after to explore other parts of Italy (can be reached by train) or other parts of Europe!

Accomodation

Florence City Centre

We recommend staying in Florence's historic city center, all weekend shuttles will depart from there. Friday's events at Palazzo Borghese are right in the heart of the city. Coffee shops, shopping, and restaurants are all within a 2 minute walk. Taxis are easy to call from here, however, parking proves to be difficult in the city centre if you plan on renting a car. If you have a car and are staying in the city centre, check with the hotel or accommodation you book about parking. Some hotel recommendations (all a 5 minute walking radius from Palazzo Borghese, Friday's Venue)- Grand Hotel Cavour Florence (gorgeous hotel with mid sized rooms and great breakfast)-Borghese Palace Art Hotel (smaller rooms, delicious breakfast, attached to the Friday venue)-Hotel Bernini (5 star hotel)Florence also has excellent apartment and airbnb rentals if you're making a longer trip of it. Book early, late August is peak season in Tuscany.

Tuscan Countryside

Alternative is to stay in the Tuscan countryside, which could offer more peaceful environment. This might be an option if you are traveling with multiple friends or family. Please try to stay as close to the Villa Medicea di Lilliano if you go this route. A town that we would recommend staying at is Grassina (15 minutes from Florence, 5 minutes from Villa Medicea di Lilliano). If you choose to stay here, you will be responsible for your transport to and from the events. You could either rent a car or could arrange a taxi service (see transportation section for more information).If you are planning on parking at the wedding venue, please let us know as there are only 20 available spots. However, we would prefer if you could pre arrange a taxi if you are coming from the countryside. If you need help doing so please reach out to us directly and we are happy to assist.

Travel & Lodging

Event Dress Code

Friday morning - Mehndi/HaldiFestive daytime, Indian or Western. Think bright sundresses, kurtas, salwar kameez, light lehengas, linen shirts and trousers.Dress code colors: TBDFriday evening —SangeetIndian formal encouraged but wear whatever you feel most comfortable in. Alternative is western cocktail/formal!Indian: lehenga, saree, anarkali, sharara, sherwani, bandhgala, or a dressy kurta set. Western: cocktail or floor-length dress, suit with or without a tie. Go bright and go bold; jewel tones, embellishment, and color are the point. Wear shoes you can dance in!Saturday - Wedding ceremony &amp; receptionBlack tie optional. Women: floor-length or midi gowns (please avoid white) Men: dark suit, pastel suit, or tuxedo. Please avoid white, ivory, and cream as that's what we'll be wearing.The ceremony is outdoors on villa grounds (gravel, stone, grass), so block heels, wedges, or flats instead stilettos. Late August is hot until 7 PM until it cools down significantly. Sunday Farewell Lunch &amp; Pool PartyCasual chic resort wear: linen sets, breezy dresses, shirts and shorts, sandals. Bring a swimsuit and a cover-up if you plan on swimming.Dress code colors: TBD

Indian Clothing Guidance

If you've never worn Indian clothing before, below is everything you need: what the garments are, which event each suits, and how to get one without stress or a big bill. And if you'd rather stick to Western formal, that's completely fine too!For womenLehenga – A long, flowy skirt with a matching crop top (choli) and a scarf (dupatta). Very common at sangeets.Saree – A single long piece of fabric draped around the body over a fitted blouse. Look for a pre-draped or ready-to-wear sareeAnarkali – A long, flowing dress with a fitted bodice, worn with slim pants and a dupattaSalwar kameez / kurta set – A long tunic with loose pants (or wider palazzo/sharara pants) and a dupatta. Relaxed and great for daytime events like the mehndi and haldi.Sharara set – A short or mid-length top worn over very wide, flared pants that look like a skirt until you move, plus a dupatta.For menKurta pajama – A long tunic with drawstring pants. The go-to for daytime events; lightweight and easy.Kurta with Nehru jacket – The same, with a sleeveless collared vest layered over. Dresses up a kurta for the evening.Sherwani – A long, structured, embroidered coat worn over fitted pants. The most formal option, think tuxedo equivalent, ideal for the sangeet.Bandhgala / Jodhpuri suit – A tailored Indian-style suit jacket with a standing collar. A good pick if you want something closer to a Western suit.What to wear whenMehndi &amp; Haldi: kurta set, salwar kameez, or a light lehenga; kurta pajama, or daytime festive western dress. Dress code colors TBD. Sangeet: lehenga, saree, anarkali, or sharara; sherwani, kurta with Nehru jacket, or bandhgala. Or a cocktail dress and a suit. Ceremony &amp; Reception: Western black tie optional. No white, ivory, or cream.Order earlyMost Indian outfits bought online ship from India and take 3–6 weeks. Order in time to leave time for alterations if needed. If you're between sizes, go up; taking in is easy, letting out isn't. You don't need to spend muchA good kurta pajama or kurta set runs $40–100, and a lehenga or saree you'll be happy in can be found for $100–200. Custom and designer options are not expected. Renting is also an option if you'd rather not own one.Fabric and weatherIt will be 90°F+ during the day. Choose cotton, georgette, chiffon, or silk blends over velvet and heavy brocade, especially for the mehndi. Save the heavier, more embellished pieces for the sangeet evening.Shoes and accessoriesSandals, block heels, or juttis (embroidered flat slip-ons) for women; loafers, mojaris, or dress shoes for men. Jewelry is welcome but optional; statement earrings or a few bangles can make an outfit complete. Bring safety pins for the dupatta if you have one.

WHERE TO BUY:For guests looking to purchase Indian outfits, here are a few online retailers with great options and international shipping:If you are in the Houston area, Hilcroft has a variety of stores with great options.Online stores (including jewelry) -Budget:• Laksharaa (bride's fave)–<a href="https://www.laksharaa.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.laksharaa.com</a>• Kalki -(bride's fave) https://www.kalkifashion.com/• Trendia – <a href="https://trendia.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://trendia.co/</a> <a href="https://trendia.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a>• FabIndia (mother of bride's fave) <a href="https://www.fabindia.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.fabindia.com</a>•Utsav Fashion - <a href="https://www.utsavfashion.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.utsavfashion.com</a>• Andaaz Fashion – <a href="https://www.andaazfashion.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.andaazfashion.com</a>• Soch – <a href="https://www.soch.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.soch.com</a> <a href="https://www.soch.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a>• AJIO – <a href="https://www.ajio.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.ajio.com</a>• Amazon - plenty of options for men (Kurta or Sherwani) and women (predraped sarees, salwar kameez, lehenga, and indian jewerlry)Higher budgets with designer wear (online &amp; storefront appointment based) :- Panache by Sharmeen (online &amp; storefront in Houston)- Pernia's Pop Up Shop (online &amp; storefront in NYC)- Kynah (online &amp; storefront in LA)There are also plenty of rental websites including Boomie and Marigold.

Dress Code Tips

Things to Do

Helpful Details

• Please ensure to join the Whatsapp group before leaving for Italy. This is how we will communicate the most up to date information during the wedding weekend.• The property includes a mix of grass and gravel pathways, so we recommend comfortable footwear. If you’re wearing heels, wider styles will be best for walking safely and easily.• Late August in Italy tends to be hot. Friday is mostly indoors, while Saturday and Sunday will be outdoors. Evenings can feel cool even after warm, sunny days, so we suggest bringing a light jacket or wrap.• Electrical outlets in Italy are different from those at home—please remember to bring a travel adapter.• Most hair tools from the U.S. are not compatible with local voltage. If you plan to bring styling tools, make sure they are dual-voltage or consider purchasing one designed for international use.

Why a destination wedding in Italy?

Kristian and Sanjna both share a passion for travel, great food &amp; wine, cultural immersion, being outdoors, and spending quality time with the people most important to them. Kristian’s grandfather, Papa Gary, who is very dear to him, has a timeshare in Tuscany, so the region carries a special place in his heart. During his time in the UK, Kristian also took two separate trips to Italy, with Florence being the favorite city he visited. Sanj’s all time favorite trip with her sister &amp; MOH Meghna, was to Florence and Tuscany in 2021 (fun fact, they even crashed an Italian wedding while there and were warmed by how welcoming the Italian community was). Therefore, it was an easy decision to spend the most important weekend of their lives in Florence and Tuscan countryside!

Frequently Asked Questions

How will we communicate about events during the wedding weekend?We will use Whatsapp to communicate. Please join the Whatsapp group before leaving for Italy and check it regularly as the most up to date information will be there. We will create this group a few months before the wedding once the RSVPs are finalized.Do I have to go to every event?No. While we encourage you come to all four events to experience everything we have carefully curated, we understand if you cannot make them all. We ask that you please let us know on the RSVPs as you can choose your RSVP for each event separately.When do we RSVP?The formal invites will go out late December or early January. We ask that you RSVP by May 1st, 2027. If you already know that you will likely not be able to make the wedding please kindly let us know before formal invites go out.What will the weather be like?Hot and gorgeous during the day! Late August in Tuscany typically means sunny days around 88–95°F (31–35°C), warm evenings in the 70s°F (low-to-mid 20s°C), and (hopefully) very little rain. Evening events cool down very nicely, but daytime events will be warm. Dress light, hydrate, and bring sunglasses.Is there A/C in the venues &amp; accomodations?Yes! In all the ones we have listed and the venues there is A/C. If you choose to book different accommodation, make sure there is A/C as it is not always a given in Europe.Which events are indoors vs outdoors?Friday events are indoors. The Baraat will be outdoors but we will be indoors shortly for the evening. Saturday and Sunday are outdoor events.What's the currency? The euro. Cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash, small businesses, taxis, and rural spots sometimes prefer it. You can withdraw it at ATMS in the city using a debit card or bring euros before leaving.Do I need to tip? Not the way you would at home. Service is often included (look for coperto or servizio on the bill). Rounding up or leaving a few euros for excellent service is appreciated but never expected.Will my phone work? Check with your carrier about an international plan, or pick up an eSIM before you fly, it is usually cheaper and easier than roaming.Do I need to speak Italian? No. English is widely spoken in Florence and at the venues. That said, buongiorno and grazie will carry you a long way.What's the plug situation?Italy uses 230V with Type C, F, and L outlets. Bring an adapter, and if you're bringing anything that heats up, like a hair tool, check that it's dual-voltage.Can I bring my kids?As much as we love your little ones, our wedding will be an adults-only celebration. We hope the advance notice means you can arrange care and enjoy a weekend off in Italy!Is there childcare available? We aren't organizing childcare, but if enough families are interested we're happy to help connect you so you can arrange something together. Let us know.Is my plus-one invited?Due to venue capacity, we're only able to accommodate the guests named on your invitation. Your invitation and RSVP will reflect exactly who is included. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out. Invitations will be sent out end of December and please respond by March!I am traveling alone. Can you connect me with other guests?Yes! Please reach out to us. We hope our friends and family intermingle! We would be happy to introduce you to other guests to travel and stay with.I have a dietary restriction or allergies. Who do I tell? Let us know when you RSVP there will be a field for it.Will there be vegetarian food? Yes, plenty, across all three days.