Since its launch in 2005, BBC’s popular business-styled reality game show ‘The Apprentice’ has seen several ups and downs, fights and friendships. The 18 seasons aired till date saw several candidates try to win Sir Alan Sugar’s investments. Most of the participants went head-to-head trying to ace Britain’s toughest job interview, but two participants fell head-over-heels in love instead. Businessman Akshay Thakrar met successful coffee business owner and 2022 edition’s winner Harpreet Kaur in the boardroom.
“I’m definitely not in business to make friends. I’m here to make money, and I’m pretty sure Lord Sugar isn’t looking for a new mate,” Harpreet had said in an interview for the show. But as they say, life had other plans. The two reconnected after the show and instantly hit it off. It wasn’t long before romance blossomed and the pair got into a relationship for about a year. In May 2023, Akshay popped the question to Harpreet on a bed of rose petals in a dreamy rooftop proposal. “I would find you in any lifetime,” he said.
A year later Harpreet and Akshay’s tied the knot in a celebration that was as epic as a final boardroom showdown with Lord Sugar himself. It was a big fat Indian wedding for the duo, who chose multiple venues, events and outfits to celebrate their union. From a civil ceremony to traditional pheras and a huge reception, it was a party like no other.
The Haldi
The celebrations started with a fun filled haldi ceremony at the luxury four star multi-award winning country house hotel in Yorkshire, Wentbridge House. The yellow-themed event was done up by Sophie behind Shaadi Superstore. The beautiful stage set featured diyas, lotus bowls, urns and lots of fresh jasmines and ghenda flowers.
The Civil Ceremony
Harpreet and Akshay exchanged vows in an intimate civil ceremony with friends and family in attendance. The bride walked down the aisle in a white lace gown. She accessorised with a pair of pearl heels by Jimmy Choo and diamond jewellery. The groom wore a sharp suit.
The Wedding
With over 78 acres of land with plentiful gardens and a temple, the beautiful spiritual sanctuary, ISKCON Bhaktivedanta Manor was chosen as the venue for the traditional Indian wedding on June 1, 2024. Shagun Weddings was responsible for the stunning décor with lots of red flowers, while Everything Wedding With Komal Sheth did the wedding coordination. DJ Raj and Imperial Drummers – Dhol Players ensured everyone had a good time.
Madhu’s | Fine Indian Cuisine cooked up a delicious menu for the guests. And Karisha of Crème De La Cakes created a custom cake for the celebrations. Invitations By Raniti made the invitations.
The Wedding Wardrobe
A white lehenga by BIBI London was Harpreet’s choice for the Big Day. The bride wore statement gold jewellery by Red Dot Jewels from their Aura Collection. “We had just 3 weeks to create a bespoke choker and earrings, adorned with mother of pearl and moissanite stones. We love a challenge and we think the final outcome was dazzling,” shared Shalini Gupta of Red Dot Jewels. Akshay matched the bride in a white sherwani.
The Reception
Fairmont Windsor Park was the venue for the glamorous reception. The bride wore a statement red gown from The Harrogate Wedding Lounge for the evening. Akshay wore a suit from Milano Couture. Mohsin Ali captured the memories behind his camera, while Empire Cinematic | Luxury Wedding Films did the videography.
The Bride’s Checklist
The Photography- Mohsin Ali Photography
The Videography- Empire Cinematic
The Venues- Bhaktivedanta Manor and Fairmont Windsor Park
Decor- Shaadi Superstore and Shagun Weddings
Wedding Planner- Everything Wedding With Komal Sheth
Entertainment- DJ Raj and Imperial Drummers
Catering- Madhu’s and Creme de la Cakes
Stationery- Invitations by Raniti
Bride’s wardrobe- Bibi London and The Harrogate Wedding Lounge
Bride’s jewellery- Red Dot Jewels
Groom’s wardrobe- Milano Couture
