Featuring Abir Varma and Isabelle Lee
Abir and Isabelle’s love story began in the vibrant atmosphere of Columbia University in 2018, where they were neighbors—Abir in his final year of law school and Isabelle in her journalism program. Their paths crossed often, with chance encounters in the hallways evolving into coffee dates and eventually, romantic outings. From those initial moments of connection, a deep bond blossomed, setting the stage for their remarkable journey together.
Their engagement was as unique as their meeting. Given their roots in Delhi and Manila, Abir and Isabelle decided to celebrate their union with dual weddings—one in each country. This decision was fueled by their desire to honor their diverse backgrounds and bring together their friends and family from both sides of the globe.
The Indian wedding was a vibrant affair, featuring traditional ceremonies like the sangeet, pheras, and a lively reception. With a theme bursting with color, it reflected the rich cultural tapestry of their heritage. The celebration was a collaborative effort, with both families orchestrating much of the planning and Isabelle’s parents contributing significantly to the details. In contrast, their Philippine wedding was marked by a serene, spring-themed simplicity with a predominantly pink palette, symbolizing a fresh and clean look.
Personal touches were evident throughout the celebrations. The wedding cakes in both countries featured fondant replicas of Abir’s beloved dogs, highlighting their shared life and interests. A special video helped bridge the gap between their friends in New York, Delhi, and Manila, showcasing their journey and the love they had built together.
A particularly memorable moment was the Indian wedding’s pheras ceremony, which beautifully integrated traditional rituals with personal significance. As described in a handout, the ceremony included the exchange of garlands, sacred vows around a fire, and a touching ritual of taking seven steps together—each step representing a heartfelt prayer for their future.
Their weddings, while spread across continents, were a celebration of love, culture, and the unity of two families. Having already married in a civil ceremony in New York, Abir and Isabelle approached their international celebrations with joy and a sense of ease, focusing on the true essence of their union: a celebration of their love with cherished friends and family.
Abir and Isabelle’s Dream Team: Church: Church of the Holy Trinity | Ceremony and Reception: Shangri La Fort | Coordinator: Christine Ong Te Events | Cake: Shangri La Fort| Invites: Prints by Dion | Event Stylist: Kathy King | Photographer: Pat Dy | Videographer: Jason Magbanua | Gown designer: Francis Libiran | Suit designer: Zegna | Band: 3rd Avenue | Led: Always In Motion
