The DeSoto

Anand Karaj

Pizza Party

Filipino Ceremony & Reception

Our Wedding

When Arsh Met Gemilee

In May 2019, Arsh joined Orangetheory Fitness in Pooler, GA, where he took his second class with Gemilee as his coach. He gave every class his best effort, quickly showing Gemilee his dedication to fitness. While many might assume it was love at first sight, their story actually began as a genuine friendship. It wasn’t until the summer of 2020 that their bond was rekindled, thanks to their mutual friend, Amy. They began spending more time together in group settings, gradually growing closer. As their friendship deepened, they opened up to each other about their lives—including their struggles with modern dating. Both had been searching for “the one” through dating apps, but without success. Through these conversations, they discovered they shared similar values and hopes for a partner. One day, they decided to spend time together just the two of them. They visited Gemilee’s workplace at the Palmetto Bluff Club, took a peaceful stroll through the community, and later that evening had dinner at Skull Creek Dockside on Hilton Head Island. It was a memorable day—one that gently shifted their friendship into something more. As they continued spending quality time together, neither could have predicted that in each other, they would finally find their person.

Our Story

Photos

Geena Marquez

William Zimmerle

Amy Wolterman

Daniel Magno

Gabrielle Vincenzetti

Darian Freeman

Michaela Cotner

Kevin Enriquez

Monique Guinocor

Trevor Freeman

Nikki Luong

Tyler Christian

Wedding Party

1. Barat (Baraat) – The Groom’s ProcessionThe Barat is the groom’s wedding procession to the bride’s venue, often with much celebration, music (typically a dhol or band), dancing, and family members in colorful attire. It symbolizes the groom and his family coming to claim the bride. 2. Milni – Meeting of the Families“Milni” means “meeting.” It is a ceremonial welcome where the bride’s family greets the groom’s family. Male relatives from both sides (father, uncles, brothers) are introduced formally and exchange garlands, hugs, and sometimes gifts. 3. Anand KarajAn Anand Karaj is a Sikh wedding ceremony, often referred to as the "Blissful Union." It is a sacred ritual that unites two individuals in marriage according to Sikh traditions and values, emphasizing equality, mutual respect, and spiritual connection. Guests sit on the floor in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib, and the atmosphere is one of reverence and celebration. After the Lavan, additional prayers, such as the Anand Sahib hymn, are recited, followed by the Ardas (a Sikh prayer).

How to Dress

For an Anand Karaj, modest and respectful attire is key, as it is a religious event.- Head Covering: Both men and women are required to cover their heads in the Gurdwara as a sign of respect. Bring a scarf, dupatta, or handkerchief, or use one provided at the venue. Men may also wear a turban or a simple headscarf.-Clothing: Wear modest, traditional, or semi-formal attire that covers the shoulders, chest, and legs.- Footwear: Shoes are removed before entering the Gurdwara, so wear something easy to slip off

Sikh Wedding Details

In a traditional Filipino wedding, the Arrhae, Veil, and Cord ceremonies are meaningful rituals that symbolize the couple’s unity, commitment, and shared responsibilities. These elements, often rooted in Catholic tradition and cultural heritage, take place during the church ceremony with the help of chosen sponsors.   1. Arrhae (Unity Coins) - The Arrhae (or arras) unity coins ceremony is a traditional part of Filipino Catholic weddings that symbolizes prosperity, commitment, and mutual responsibility in marriage. During this ritual, the groom presents 13 coins to the bride. These coins are typically blessed by the priest and placed in an ornate box or pouch.   2. Veil and cord - The veil and cord ceremony is a meaningful part of a traditional Filipino wedding, symbolizing unity, love, and lifelong commitment. During this ritual, a veil is placed over the bride and groom to signify being clothed as one, while a cordshaped like a figure-eight is draped over their shoulders, representing eternal unity.    3. Unity candle - The unity candle ceremony symbolizes the joining of two individuals into one. The bride and groom each take a lit candle, representing their individual lives, and together light a larger candle, signifying their new life as a married couple.

Filipino Ceremony Details

Attendees may also call&nbsp;1-855-703-4655&nbsp;to make reservations via phone.Group Code: 2512MARKAHAll reservations should be made by Wednesday November 12th, 2025 (no later than 12:01 AM).

The DeSoto Savannah

Distance to Downtown Savannah, GA: 12 Miles (Approx. 22 minutes)We recommend taking a taxi or using a rideshare app to get to Downtown. If you plan on doing activities outside of Downtown Savannah, we recommend renting a car.

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

Travel

Arts & Culture

Creativity isn't just a buzzword; here, it's in the very air you breathe, swirling around the quaint galleries, secret film nooks​ and tucked-away music joints within the city's stunning architecture.

The first and only museum in the United States dedicated to the history of Prohibition. While here, guests will travel back in time to the early 1900s, as anti-alcohol rallies swept the nation and the “booze problem” was pushed to the fore-front of American politics. The true story of America’s struggle with the liquor question, the passing of the 18th Amendment, its impact on the nation, and the far-reaching consequences of the thirteen years of Prohibition all come to life within the walls of the American Prohibition Museum. Through immersive displays and state-of-the-art dioramas, museum goers will learn how Prohibition and Temperance shaped thinking and culture for more than 200 years of American history.

American Prohibition Museum

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is housed in the historic William Scarbrough House, an elegant example of early Greek Revival architecture in the South. Built in 1819 for William Scarbrough, a prominent shipping merchant and the first president of the Savannah Steamship Company, the museum showcases a remarkable collection of ship models, paintings, and maritime antiques. In addition to its exquisite interior, the museum features the largest private gardens within Savannah’s historic district, designed to reflect a typical 19th-century parlor garden.

Ships Of The Sea Maritime Museum

Step into SCADstory — an immersive 4D experience that tells a universal tale of the dreamer in us all. SCADstory carries guests on an unexpected journey through SCAD history, across four decades of beauty, design, and invention. Told with the magic and wonder of 25 SCAD disciplines — from animation to themed entertainment design — SCADstory is a journey like no other. In celebration of SCAD's 40th anniversary, come see SCADstory. Dreams really do come true.

SCADstory

Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie, Telfair Museums’ Jepson Center presents highlights from the museum’s modern and contemporary collection and also treats visitors to an ever-changing array of exceptional artwork—from classical European masters to daring emerging artists.

Jepson Center & Telfair Children's Art Museum (CAM)

The Telfair Academy is the oldest public art museum in the South and the first art museum in America founded by a woman. Formerly the Telfair family mansion, the museum opened its doors to the public in 1886. The Telfair Academy presents a celebrated collection of fine art, decorative art, and period rooms, displayed within the stunning architectural setting designed by European architects William Jay and Detlef Lienau. It is also home to the Bird Girl statue made famous by the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

Telfair Academy

Discover the essence of Savannah through the eyes of over 300 local artisans. Nestled in Georgia's oldest city, Locally Made Savannah thrives as a collective within the historic shopping district.

Locally Made Savannah

Old Fort Jackson is a National Historic Landmark located on the eastern end of the city, right on the Savannah River. This early 19th-century fort is the oldest standing brick fortification in Georgia. Historical Interpreters in historical military impressions provide multi-era military history programming with daily historical weapons demonstrations and activities appropriate for all ages.

Old Fort Jackson

Front Porch Improv was created by four improv nerds in 2015. We put on dope improv comedy shows every week in Savannah with a cast of talented performers.

Front Porch Improv: Savannah's Home for Comedy

Tours & Excursions

Ready to get those goosebumps going on a&nbsp;ghost tour? Or maybe a leisurely stroll through the historic&nbsp;Bonaventure Cemetery&nbsp;is more your speed? Whether you're up for a thrill or a chill, Savannah's got you covered. Marvel at the stunning architecture, dive into&nbsp;Civil War history,&nbsp;dine&nbsp;and walk on a food tour or get lost in the city's many&nbsp;museums.

With this hop-on hop-off trolley tour of Savannah, a trolley departs every 30 minutes, so you’re never stuck waiting too long for a ride. Pass over 100 iconic sites, plus enjoy exploring with 15 stops including City Market, River Street, and other areas. This is an ideal choice for first-time visitors to Savannah.

Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

Enjoy a 90-minute narrated sightseeing cruise in Savannah aboard this traditional riverboat. Hear our Captain’s intriguing tales and historic facts about our modern port and the ships that visit from all over the world. As a bonus you'll pass by Old Fort Jackson, one of the oldest artillery pieces in the country.

Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise

Take a ride through one of Savannah’s well-known graveyards on this golf cart tour of Bonaventure Cemetery. Trade walking for a wealth of knowledge shared by your guides who are members of the Bonaventure Historical Society. A filming location for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, you’ll learn about the history of this cemetery from its founding through its modern-day pop culture significance.

Golf Cart Tours of Bonaventure Cemetery

History and humor collide on this comedy trolley tour. Titled: “Savannah for Morons”, this guided experience lets you sit back and soak in the sights of downtown Savannah. Laugh as you learn about landmarks such as Forsyth Park and Colonial Park Cemetery. Pass by the Green-Meldrim House and Mercer Williams House Museum while watching costumed guides perform skits, musical numbers, and more.

Savannah for Morons: Comedy Trolley Tour

Throughout the US, Savannah is hailed as one of the country;s most haunted cities. Get the inside scoop on the haunted history of the region on a walking tour that takes place after sunset, when ghosts and ghouls are most likely to roam the streets.

Savannah's Ghost City "Dead of Night" Walking Night Tour

If you are a foodie, traveler, lover of history and most importantly passionate about sharing that with others then join us at Flavors Food Tours in Savannah! Come eat, drink and explore with us as we stroll through the historic streets of Savannah, uncovering authentic Southern cuisine and drinks. Our lunch and dinner tours are boutique and intimate, essentially dining with a friendly local. From fresh oysters to sweet pralines and fried green tomatoes, we're your one stop shop for Low Country, Southern fare eaten across several foodie locations.

Flavors Food Tours

Our Segway tours are original, exciting and additive. No experience necessary! We will teach you how to ride like a pro before we get on the road. Our live audio tours allow your guide to narrate while you listen through your earbuds about the history, fun facts and novelties of beautiful Savannah.

Adventure Tours in Motion/Savannah Segway®

Touring Savannah by bike is the most efficient way to see the city! Cover a lot of ground, including most of the historic district, with greater efficiency and less fatigue. Enjoy the freedom of exploring the quiet, lesser-known streets that link the well-worn paths. Journey up-close and personal to destinations along the way, stopping for awhile to admire and photograph Savannah’s beauty as you learn of its history. A bike tour is the fittest, greenest way to see any city of course, and for our beautiful and laid-back city, our quiet, fume-free ride is ideal. So, avoid contributing to downtown traffic congestion and noise by pedaling through history!

Savannah Bike Tours®

Discover the heart of the oldest city in Georgia with this self-guided Savannah walking tour! Listen to over 70+ audio stories along a 4.8-mile stretch of the city. Stroll along cobblestoned streets and past cute shops and restaurants on the beautiful riverfront. Admire beautifully preserved historic architecture. Get to know Savannah's most influential residents of days past. And, of course, dig into the city's complex history, from the Native tribes who once occupied the region to the battle between enslavers and abolitionists and beyond.The tour takes 2-4 hours, depending on how long you want to spend at each stop. Since this is a walking tour, buy one per person. Note that our tours are valid for a lifetime, so you can listen to the stories and even get future content updates at no extra cost.

Savannah Self Guided Walking Tour

Shopping

Savannah draws visitors from far and wide with its enchanting blend of distinctive boutiques, artisan havens​ and chic fashion sanctuaries. It's not just shopping​ — it's an adventure where every corner reveals a new discovery.

From hand-crafted jewelry and accessories to custom-made lighting, French-milled soaps to hard-to-come-by kitchen tools, each piece inspires an elegant, romantic lifestyle. A charming corner of the store offers wares and gifts just for children and an expansive section of books and magazines is devoted to art, design, food and travel. Tables are set with all the accoutrements for the perfect dinner party, while daybeds are dressed in layers of luxurious linens and throw pillows.

The Paris Market, Savannah

At Savannah Bee Company, honeybees are our passion, and our retail locations bring that passion to life. Our stores are interactive destinations where you can enjoy guided honey tastings of our single source and wildflower varietals and sample our hive-powered, skin-nourishing body care products. We also offer mead (honey wine) tastings for our adult visitors and Bee Garden tours in select locations. Our staff is as fun as they are knowledgeable (and that's a lot of fun) and they are ready to guide you through the Savannah Bee Experience while you shop for unique gifts from the hive.&nbsp;

Savannah Bee Company

Offers locally inspired luxury handbags, accessories, and jewelry.

Spartina 449 Savannah City Market

A beloved local bookstore with an additional location in Starland District's beloved&nbsp;<a href="https://visitsavannah.com/node/17771" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gingerbread House</a>.

E Shaver Booksellers

Locally crafted leather goods and accessories.

Satchel

Features vintage and high-end fashion pieces.

House of Strut

Talented artist Sabreee celebrates the rich culture of the Gullah Geechee community through art.

Sabreee's Gullah Art Gallery

A vibrant marketplace featuring art and crafts by local artisans along the riverfront.

River Street Market Place

Food & Drink

Welcome to Savannah, where you'll find heavenly dishes crafted by top-notch chefs using locally sourced ingredients.

This striking coastal Italian establishment is nestled inside a Victorian Georgian mansion, making it the perfect backdrop for all your whimsical needs. With an international menu that will take your taste buds on a world tour, Saint Bibiana effortlessly combines timeless glamour with mouth-watering dishes.

Saint Bibiana

Indulge in a tantalizing blend of Asian-inspired dishes, where traditional meets trendy in a swanky Korean steak and BBQ haunt. This chic establishment will have your taste buds dancing with every bite in a stylish and refined atmosphere.

Madame Butterfly

Once home to the city's historic&nbsp;power plant, Stone &amp; Webster is known for its prime cuts and refined atmosphere, this chophouse offers a perfect blend of traditional steakhouse fare with innovative sides.&nbsp;

Stone & Webster Chophouse

Located in the heart of Savannah's historic district at the iconic&nbsp;City Market, Belford serves premium steaks along with seafood in a majestic, old-world setting.&nbsp;

Belford's Savannah Seafood & Steaks

Welcome to the ultimate trifecta of deliciousness — The Emporium Kitchen and Wine Market at the&nbsp;Perry Lane Hotel. This one-stop-shop has it all: an outstanding restaurant, a top-notch wine shop​ and an artisanal market that will make your taste buds dance.&nbsp;

Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market

Perched atop the&nbsp;Thompson Savannah, Bar Julian boasts both breathtaking sights and a tantalizing menu that fuses local flavors with worldly charm.

Bar Julian

One of Savannah’s most famous dining establishments, offering Southern classics in a grand colonial powder-pink mansion.&nbsp;

The Olde Pink House

The whimsical decor matches the creative and globally inspired dishes, making it a standout in Savannah’s dining scene.&nbsp;

Flora and Fauna Savannah

You can't help but be energized by&nbsp;Electric Moon Skytop Lounge + Moon Deck, one of&nbsp;Plant Riverside District's illuminated spaces for drinks, dining, entertainment and a real-life adult playground. We're serious; there's a slide here! Once you've had your fill of the slides, it's time to refuel. Fill up on shareable dishes like tuna poke tacos, chipotle honey chicken bites and triple shot dessert cups (oh&nbsp;yes, with booze). The experience is truly electrifying.

Electric Moon Skytop Lounge + Moon Deck

Gastropub has taken on an entirely new meaning at&nbsp;The Fitzroy. A delicate balance of Australian and coastal cuisine will leave a lasting impression. Head to the roof, where you'll find brick walls, string lights and beautiful wood floors as you watch Drayton and Bay Street come to life while savoring fried Brussels sprouts Caesar, pei mussels with bloody mary broth and chocolate Kahlua creme brûlée.&nbsp;

The Fitzroy

The enchanting beauty and fragrant aroma of&nbsp;Myrtle &amp; Rose Rooftop Garden&nbsp;will transport you to mythological times. River views, white drapery and notes of lavender make an evening here romantic, charming and royal. Nibble delicately on prawns with charred pepper sauce, potato croquettes or a gathering board with meats, artisan cheeses, pickled vegetables and rosé jelly. Shift your crown as you laugh with friends beneath the beautiful pergola.&nbsp;

Arsh & Gemilee

Arsh & Gemilee

Wedding Party