Back in February 2020, before the world locked down, I had the honour of flying to a destination wedding in Goa, India to photograph the inspirational Swati and Joshan. Indeed, it was a fun-filled, yet emotional 3 days of celebrations! Swati and Joshan’s love story is a tale of ‘triumph over tragedy’. ❤️

In 2009, Swati was traveling in Australia during her gap year when she was involved in a car accident on the beach. In fact, two people passed away at the scene. However, Swati suffered a debilitating spinal cord injury, which left her paralyzed from the waist down. Furthermore, Swati was told she’d need a wheelchair for the rest of her life and would never walk again.

However, Swati spent two years in a wheelchair before learning to walk again on crutches. Swati says once she learned the power of positivity and using a progressive mindset no matter what situation she was in, she became unstoppable. 💯

Above all, Swati says ”You should follow your dreams and never give up, irrespective of the challenges you may face. You have no idea what you might find at the end of the road if you just keep going.”

Dream destination wedding in Goa…

Swati and Joshan got engaged at the same venue and location a year before the wedding. Swati’s dream destination wedding in Goa happened a year later. In fact, it was a perfect day in Goa for her wedding. The sun shone brightly and the guests had an amazing time.

One of Swati’s goals before the wedding was to be able to do her first dance without crutches. Watching it happen was a beautiful moment to witness it. As Swati said – ”Although I was holding onto Joshan quite tightly, I felt as though I was floating on clouds. It was an exceptionally liberating feeling, and I almost forgot I needed to use crutches in the first place.”

A gig thanks to Carmo Braz for second shooting and being an all-round superstar over the busy 3 days!

It was great to work with the amazing Suky Gill who glammed Swati up at every event! It was a pleasure to hang out with her during the down time!

Chaz Fliy produced an incredible, emotional film and it was inspiring to work alongside him. 

Reynolds Weddings provided great decor and planned the wedding to perfection!

Further, Swati and Joshan’s amazing wedding and story was featured on the huge wedding blog Love My Dress!

As well as on the huge website Insider.com!

If you’re having a destination wedding in Goa, please get in touch!