There is a specific energy that fills a room when the wedding industry comes together. It is a mix of anticipation, artistry, and the vibrant colors that define our culture.
On January 11, 2026, I had the privilege of experiencing this firsthand at the South Asian Bride Expo held at the stunning Hotel at Avalon in Alpharetta, Georgia.
If you know me, you know that my mission as The Shehnai Guy is to preserve tradition and elevate emotion. Usually, I do this during the sacred moments of a wedding ceremony. But this past weekend, I had the unique opportunity to set the tone right at the front door.
It was a beautiful day for the Atlanta wedding community, and I want to share a few highlights from the experience.
Setting the Tone with Live Shehnai Music
The organizers invited me to play welcome music as guests and future brides entered the expo area.
In Indian culture, the Shehnai is considered an auspicious instrument (Mangal Vadya). Its sound is synonymous with good beginnings. Traditionally, it was played at the entrance of temples and palaces to welcome royalty or deities.
Bringing that concept to a modern bridal expo felt incredibly fitting.
As attendees walked into the Hotel at Avalon, leaving the busy streets of Alpharetta behind, the music served as a transition. It was a signal that they were stepping into a space of celebration, planning, and dreams.
I wasn’t performing alone. I was accompanied by my good friend and talented rhythmist, Zubair Firoz.
There is something special about the interplay between the melody of the Shehnai and the heartbeat of live percussion. Zubair and I have a chemistry that allows us to improvise and feed off the energy of the crowd. We kept the vibe upbeat yet soulful, creating an atmosphere that was welcoming, traditional, and distinctly South Asian.
Connecting with Atlanta’s Future Brides
One of the most rewarding parts of the day was seeing the reaction from the attendees.
In the digital age, it is easy to scroll through Instagram and find vendors. But hearing live Indian wedding music in person is a different experience entirely. It resonates physically.
Many brides stopped by our setup, surprised and delighted to hear the Shehnai being played live.
We had wonderful conversations about their upcoming nuptials. Many of them shared that they were looking for ways to make their Hindu wedding ceremony feel more authentic and spiritual. They didn’t just want a playlist; they wanted a moment.
It was humbling to have so many couples inquire about having me play for their weddings later this year and into 2027.
When a bride tells you that the music “gave her chills” or “reminded her of her friend’s wedding in India,” it reminds me exactly why I do this. It isn’t just about entertainment; it is about connecting generations through sound.
The Atlanta Wedding Vendor Community
Atlanta really has become a powerhouse for South Asian weddings.
The talent in this city is undeniable. The expo wasn’t just about meeting clients; it was a reunion with fellow creatives.
I had the chance to catch up with some of the best in the business—from Indian wedding DJs and lighting experts to talented henna artists, decorators, and caterers.
There is a strong sense of community here. We all understand the nuances of a Desi wedding. We know that it isn’t just a one-day event; it is a multi-day saga of family, food, and ritual.
Seeing the intricate mandap setups and tasting the catering samples reminded me of how many moving parts go into these events. As a musician, I am just one piece of the puzzle. But when we all work together, venue, decor, sound, and priest. We create a seamless flow that allows the family to be fully present.
Why Live Music Matters for Your Wedding Day
Participating in the expo reinforced a trend I’ve been seeing for the last few years: The return to live music.
While DJs are essential for the reception and the Baraat, there is a growing desire for organic, acoustic sound during the ceremony itself.
Here is why that matters:
- It Commands Attention: When the Shehnai starts, the chatter settles. It signals that something sacred is about to happen.
- It manages the Flow: Unlike a pre-recorded track, I can adjust my playing in real-time. If the Ganesh Puja takes a little longer, or if the Bride’s entrance needs to be timed perfectly to her steps, I am watching and adapting.
- It Adds emotional Weight: The vibrations of a live instrument carry emotion in a way speakers cannot.
At the Hotel at Avalon, amidst the luxury and the bustle, the sound of the Shehnai cut through the noise. It brought a moment of peace and tradition to a busy afternoon.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Wedding Season
The expo was the perfect kick-off to what promises to be a busy and beautiful year.
I left the event feeling energized and grateful. Grateful for the brides who stopped to listen, grateful for the venue for hosting such a classy event, and grateful to Zubair for holding down the rhythm with me.
If we met at the expo, thank you for saying hello. If we didn’t get a chance to connect, but you are planning your wedding in Atlanta (or beyond), I would love to chat about how we can bring the auspicious sound of the Shehnai to your special day.
Whether it is a soulful rendition of a Bollywood classic for your walk down the aisle, or traditional ragas to bless the atmosphere during the rituals, my goal is to make your ceremony feel effortless and unforgettable.
Here is to a year of love, music, and new beginnings.
Ready to elevate your ceremony?
Ankit Patel | The Shehnai Guy Preserving Tradition. Elevating Emotion.
Website: www.shehnaiguy.com
Email: shehnaiguy@gmail.com
IG/FB: @ShehnaiGuy