A BAVARIAN SOUND OF MUSIC WEDDING SEND-OFF IN VIRGINIA

When a couple with German, Irish, and Indian roots decides to celebrate their marriage around the world, every event becomes a story worth telling. Corey and Saurabh did exactly that—choosing to forego one large fusion wedding in favor of several intimate, meaningful gatherings. Their journey includes an elopement in Northern Ireland, an upcoming Punjabi celebration in India, and—beautifully setting the tone—a Bavarian-inspired farewell party in Virginia.

This send-off celebration brought European charm, cinematic whimsy, and deeply personal touches to life. The full feature can also be seen on Washingtonian (photography by Shelley Pete Photography).

Shelley Pete Photography

Bringing a German Village to Virginia

For their farewell event, Corey and Saurabh envisioned a celebration that honored Corey’s German heritage while capturing their shared love of adventure. Cherry Blossom Wedding & Events crafted a natural, earth-forward color palette that echoed the feeling of a quaint Bavarian village:

• soft steel blue

• meadow greens

• warm wood tones

• touches of autumnal orange

Inside the venue, the design drew inspiration from The Sound of Music, blending rustic Alpine elements with cinematic nods to the beloved film. Outdoors, the patio transformed into a lively biergarten complete with:

• a keg wall pouring German brews

• vintage steins

• personalized das boot glasses for guests

• bistro tables and greenery that transported everyone straight to the Alps

This blend of theme, tradition, and playfulness is exactly the kind of experience-focused design that defines Cherry Blossom Wedding & Events.

Honoring Tradition Through Interactive Experiences

German wedding customs played a meaningful role in the evening. Guests enjoyed log-sawing, a symbolic tradition representing the first challenge a newly married couple overcomes together. Later, Corey and Saurabh shared a ceremonial drink from a traditional two-handled wedding cup, a gesture symbolizing unity and partnership.

But for this couple, experiences were everything—and Cherry Blossom Wedding & Events leaned all the way in.

The Cuckoo Clock Escort Display

One of the most talked-about features was the cuckoo-clock-themed escort display. Each guest's name appeared on a hand-carved wooden bird, and three fully functioning cuckoo clocks pointed guests to their seats. It was whimsical, nostalgic, and a clever nod to an iconic scene from The Sound of Music.

Shelley Pete Photography

The Personalized Scavenger Hunt

Saurabh’s favorite detail? A highly interactive scavenger hunt woven throughout the night. Guests had to:

• find the Porsche they once crashed,

• demonstrate the Dirty Dancing lift from their proposal,

• recall the couple’s favorite wine,

• and end the challenge by blowing a whistle inspired by Captain von Trapp’s.

Winners earned a trio of German wines, making the experience both competitive and delightfully on-theme.

Authentic Bavarian Eats & Drinks

No Bavarian celebration is complete without hearty comfort food—and this menu delivered. Guests enjoyed:

• crispy chicken schnitzel

• warm pretzels with cheese

• a display of traditional German cookies

• after-dinner drinks served in German mugs

Every bite reinforced the atmosphere and cultural storytelling of the evening.

Shelley Pete Photography

A Celebration Rooted in Heritage, Adventure & Connection

This farewell party was just the beginning of Corey and Saurabh’s wedding journey, but it captured everything they value—heritage, travel, and immersive experiences that bring people together.

For couples seeking a wedding that feels like you, whether inspired by culture, travel, film, or personal storylines, Cherry Blossom Wedding & Events specializes in crafting celebrations that are thoughtful, transportive, and beautifully customized.

To learn more or inquire about planning your own intentional, detail-rich celebration, visit Cherry Blossom Wedding & Events.

Shelley Pete Photography