I enjoyed 3 1/2 years of my life as an only child. I don't have any memories of my days without my siblings, but I DO have memories of my sister once she arrived. My memories of her are comparable to a tiny hurricane. During our childhood, Chandni was a social butterfly. It’s funny since most of our parent’s friends may still not know that she has an older sister. Despite always being the bossy one, she always looked out for her siblings. She would become enraged if she found out that my brother and I were being excluded by friends or teased by someone. Regardless of her “I have your back attitude” she probably fought with me the most and would make our brother cry just so she could carry him to our parents.

Chandni and I have not always seen eye to eye and avoided each other during our middle and high school years. I can go on and on with the stories, but some of my favorites include, the fall from the stroller incident and losing a few screws, the butter knife incident, and a lot of hair pulling and stealing clothes from me. Most would say this was pretty normal between teenage sisters, but this went on past our college years!! After all these years, I can say we’ve finally found comfort in being able to share things with each other and have grown as sisters, but also have become friends. She will always have me to count on, even when I have to let her know she is wrong at times. Deven and Kaiden are very lucky to have her as their Masi. She treats them as if they are her own. Even their teachers had the “honor” of feeling the wrath of Ms. Patel!!

Chandni, I am so proud of how independent you are and how much you have grown. Thank you for allowing Neeran to be a part of your life and bringing him into ours. He is the best man for you and everyone in our family adores him. It’s evident how much he loves you, especially when you send us pictures of him holding one of your fur babies! Your time has finally come, and we are all excited for the two of you!! I’m honored to be your Matron of Honor.

My sister has asked me to write this more times than I can count, so I'm relieved to finally put it together. If anyone knows me, they'll understand that this was done on purpose - the more she asks me to do something, the less I want to do it. But for her wedding, I'll make an exception!

The first time I felt like I met Neeran was when I introduced myself, and he said he had already met me before. Well, my sister could have mentioned that when she told me I was going to meet her new boyfriend that day! I remember the first thing that came to my mind when she said "my new boyfriend" was, "I wonder if he likes cats?" It turns out, Neeran is actually allergic to cats. I guess that explains my sister a little bit. She tends to drive me crazy, but deep down, she's a very loving person, and that's why she convinced someone allergic to cats to marry her!

Usually, when you meet somebody random near a bathroom, you're out with a group of friends. That's how we met, except we were not out with friends, but instead 1000+ middle schoolers who were driving us insane. Chandni thought I was crying, most likely from the stress of the work environment...except I wasn't crying.

I was concentrating on not peeing my pants! Right before the door to the restroom opened, she invited me to go to Big Ben Tavern with her and some coworkers. We spent the whole night out as if we've known each for YEARS. As simple as it is, we've been best friends since that moment. She's helped bring out my extroverted side and has welcomed me, no questions asked.

We've shared our successes, failures, stress and happiness. It is a true honor to be the Maid of Honor for Chandni. She's helped me grow as a brand new clueless educator, to the adult I am now. My heart is full knowing she found an amazing guy that cherishes her for the amazing person that she is. Congratulations to the beautiful couple!

Our story unfolded at Lupe Tortilla, a Mexican restaurant that served as the backdrop for the start of my friendship with Chandni. Over fajitas and enchilladas, I discovered her genuine kindness and a heart that knows no bounds. Chandni, with her love for Mexican cuisine and feline companions, not only brings warmth to our lives but is also a remarkable Fia (aunt) to our daughter.

As she embarks on this journey of marriage with Neeran, it's impossible not to marvel at the love they share. It's a testament to Neeran’s devotion that he's willing to overcome being allergic to cats, a sacrifice that speaks volumes about his love for Chandni. Here's to Chandni and Neeran, may your union be as resilient as his commitment to making a life together, despite the furry obstacles. Cheers to a marriage full of love, laughter, and shared joys!

Ah, the legend of Chandni Patel, the pocket-sized powerhouse I met back on that fateful day riding the school bus. It was a classic case of sixth-grader meets eighth-grader, and sparks flew... well, maybe not actual sparks, but you get the idea. From the moment we crossed paths, Chandni and I were as inseparable as peanut butter and jelly. We became the dynamic duo, the queso to each other's chips, or maybe I should say the yin and yang.

We spent countless weekends having epic sleepovers, sharing secrets, and having silly debates over nonsensical things (like whether Shahrukh or Salman was the hotter Khan - which she later declared was Aamir, it was always Aamir!) We have celebrated every big milestone together, from awkward middle school dance performances (Choli Ke Peeche!):), birthday celebrations and nights out on the town, random rewatch parties of "Andaz Apna Apna" and countless FB posts to each other filled with inside jokes that are even too cryptic for us to remember now! And I'll never forget the day she became the BEST Masi (Aunt) to my two kiddos, Sanaya and Saavan. We stood by each other during the toughest times, supporting one another through the loss of loved ones.

Chandni's caring and loving heart knew no bounds, especially when it came to our four-legged, feathered, and even six-legged friends. I swear, if insects had a PR agent, she'd be their spokesperson! Chandni might be tiny in stature, but don't let her size fool you; she's one of the most fierce and determined people I've ever known. She's got this "small but mighty" thing down to a science. And her slightly scary side? Let's just say you wouldn't want to be on her bad side when she's defending her loved ones or advocating for her voiceless animal friends. Neeran, my friend, you've struck gold with Chandni. You're no slouch yourself, by the way (in fact, you're already one of my fave people!) May you both be happy always, and may you never find yourselves on the receiving end of Chandni's wrath. Trust me; you don't want to cross our girl. Haha! Love you guys immensely and I am so utterly happy for the both of you! Welcome to the family, Neeran - hope you're ready for the ride of your life!

I remember the day our incredible friendship began like it was yesterday! It all started with a random cat post on Facebook. Out of the blue, I received a message from Chandni, who, just like me, had her heart set on the same kitty. It was a shared love for that cat that brought us together, and it felt like an instant connection.


As we began chatting via Facebook, Chandni shared her passion for creating a rescue organization. Her dedication and drive were truly inspiring, and I was drawn to her even more. Our conversations evolved, and it wasn't long before we decided to meet in person. That fine Saturday marked the day we signed the contract for the rescue, and it was an opportunity to get to know each other better.


Our journey didn't stop there. The rescue, once known as "Precious Paws," transformed into "Furry Friends Animal Aid," signifying a new chapter in our lives. This transition symbolized the start of a friendship that would last a lifetime.


What makes our bond even more special is the way Chandni has opened up a world of experiences for me. She's stretched my boundaries, encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone, and even convinced me to trade in my tomboy attire for dresses and heels, which still makes me laugh. From memorable dining experiences at places like Gyu-Kaku, Einsteins, Los Perez, and Big Ben Tavern to creative adventures at "Painting with a Twist" and discovering the treasures at "Altar'd State," every moment with Chandni has been an unforgettable adventure. Our friendship is something truly unique and irreplaceable and I'm so grateful to have found a best friend in Chandni.

Chand and I had a lot of mutual friends growing up, but we did not really get close until about 2017-18 when I decided to change up my style and get some new jewelry! You must be thinking, what does that have to do with anything? Well, Chandni was a merchandiser for a jewelry brand, and I was looking for some new jewelry- so I messaged her, and the rest is really history lol! I probably became her biggest customer 🤪

On a more serious note though, Chand is the type of friend everyone needs in their corner- anything you need, shes got you- no questions asked. There have been a few times where she literally dropped what she was doing when I called, and I cant thank her enough for that. She has one of the biggest hearts I know, and she loves everyone (human and furry) with all of it..cant you tell with that zoo in her house? Lol!

I was so happy when I heard she was dating Neeran. Funny enough, I met Neeran through my best friend and we all hung out many times. Neeran is the guy that will do anything for his friends and family, and I have always loved and admired his genuine nature. He is calm and level headed, and since they have been together, both Chand and Neeran have grown and evolved into more beautiful people- both individually and as a unit. So honored to be a part of both of your special day, and can't wait to see what is to come!!

I remember the first time I saw Chandni, it was at Swaminariyan Temple- our usual Saturday night hot spot 😜 and I remember asking someone, "Who is that little girl hanging out with our crew?" Mind you, we all were 15 years old but Chandni looked like she was 10..I guess some things never change? 🤣

From Holi, Garba, Highschool, College days, and countless dance sessions and Bollywood nights- we instantly connected and became besties and formed the Fab 4 crew, a friendship of 25 plus years! Chandni has always had a special place in my heart- for her generosity, huge giving and loving soul, and her protectiveness of everyone and everything she valued. She may be tiny- but the girl is a firecracker- the perfect blend if you ask me! We have shared so much on this journey- ups and downs- and I knew I could always count on her. She has lived her life giving to others all of these years, and now to see her get that love come back to her a thousand fold in the form of Neeran only proves that karma is real! I am so happy and ready to see this beautiful chapter unfold for my beautiful friend and even more to celebrate the both of you in the festivities to come!

Cheers to you both and love you to the fullest! I leave you with this infamous line from one of our epic memories "YEH DOSTI...HUM NAHIN THORENGE...THORENGE HUM AGAR...TERA SAATH NA CHOTHENGE" 💖😘

My friendship with Chandni is a testament to the enduring bond that began when we both were kids, growing up the streets of Alief! While we weren't close friends at the time, there was always a foundation of love and respect between us. Fast forward many years, our paths crossed again at Garba, where our shared love for our culture rekindled the connection! Of course Chandni was the same height as my 6 year old, so the two made great dhandiya partners! ;-)

We connected again, shortly after, when the poor thing dedicated days (and a few fingers) to creating 50 custom mugs for me! Just goes to show her genuine care and commitment in all she does. Over the past two years, as Chandni’s relationship with Neeran blossomed, I was there to witness the undeniable connection between them, even before they realized it themselves. Through this, Chandni and I became closer and our friendship flourished. I am overjoyed that my two beautiful friends will soon become a united team, and grateful for the meaningful presence they bring to our lives.

Chandni is a friend who keeps it real, loves with passion, and plays with unbounded energy. Her contagious and boundless spirit, along with her selflessness in putting those she loves first, which is why I love her so much! She is a cherished part of my life. ❤️

I met Chandni on the first day of kindergarten because we rode the same bus and she came up to me saying “Do you wanna be my friend?” And the rest is history. We went from talking on the phone for hours, riding bikes to each others houses, to being best friends in virtually no time at all. I can't imagine her special day without me standing by her side—just like we were on the first day of school all those years ago.

From playing with Barbies, doing hundreds of dance performances together, ironing her hair (literally with an iron), working as substitute teachers together, and lots of nights out but one thing still remains the same, she is as amazing today as the day I first met her. Now don’t get it twisted you do not want to get on this girls bad side…don’t let the tiny in her confuse you for her fierceness. Over 36 years of friendship we’ve had our ups and downs but happy to say we still remain as close. I’m super happy she met Neeran and there is no better match for her. I genuinely cannot wait to celebrate you both and to see you receive all the happiness you’ve always deserved.

Chandni and I met in 6th grade on the school bus, that was 30 years ago. She always had her long hair tied up in a very tight braid. She was my first Indian friend I met when I moved to the Sugar Land area. We became so close, so quickly, and I ended up meeting more people through her. She always had that friendly social nature.

We had some great times growing up together and went on many adventures together! I’ll always appreciate my friendship with her because she was the sister I never had. We shared secrets, hung out at one another’s house, and shed happy and sad tears. Chandni and I travelled a lot together. One of our repeat spots was Vegas. As years go on, Chandni will always continue to hold a special place in my heart. Cheers to a lifelong friendship!

Some bonds are destined to blossom in the most unexpected places! I met Chandni in the science lab at Emerson Elementary during one of our first Preservice Days. She walked up to me and asked about life at Emerson, as she was new to the school and I knew during that conversation, she would be a fantastic friend! Little did we know that initial encounter would be the foundation for countless memories and laughter-filled adventures. She introduced me to London Sizzler and I was hooked. So many fun times together over the years and I am so thankful for that! Chandni's outgoing and kind nature is matched only by her boundless generosity! I am so thankful for our friendship!

I am filled with gratitude for the chance to stand by Chandni's side as a bridesmaid. To my friend, thank you for being the bright, beautiful soul that you are, and for gracing my life with your friendship. Here's to many more happy hours, events, nights out, dinners, and adventures yet to come. I am so happy you and Neeran found each other! Cheers to Chandni and Neeran, may this new journey and union bring you both love, happiness, and many blessings!

A friendship spanning 30 years, from being almost teenagers when we met to experiencing life throughout nearly every phase of our lives. I met Chandni when I was 12 years old, and it’s still clear to me as if it was yesterday. We were at the temple that day standing outside, and our older sisters threw us at each other introducing us very quickly saying something like, ok be friends now so you can leave us alone and disappeared. I remember Chandni wearing a bun on her head and wondering who wore buns, lol. After meeting eachother, we talked and shared stories about ourselves. This was the beginning of a lifelong friendship.


From the constant weekend sleepovers, annual birthday parties, first loves, picking a name for our dance group (GujuFlava) and dancing together for years (and that back bend!!); Chandni was the best Choreographer around town because she was a great dancer!!!, going to Indian parties, spending late nights together, road trips to Dallas and Austin in our teenage years to driving me to new student orientation in College Station, the list of memories are endless. We definitely had the time of our lives through it all! Of course there were girl fights too, but we made it through them. We were inseparable all throughout junior high and highschool nearly every weekend although we lived on different sides of Houston and didn’t attend the same schools, we always enjoyed doing girl stuff, listening to all kinds of music and can’t forget, watching MTV all day!


Now as your big day approaches, so many new memories will be shared. I am happy that you found the man of your dreams. You deserve all the love and happiness in the world. May you both be devoted to one another in love and all the years ahead be filled with kindness, joy, laughter, and mutual respect for one another. Cheers to celebrating you both soon!

Oh my, I was 11 and it all started from the day we met at the Swaminarayan temple because we were annoying our older sisters and they decided that we should be friends!! Lol WE have sooo many memories from all of our sleepovers, fashion choices, road trips, birthday parties, Guju Flava dance days, and ofcourse when we were roomies!!

Chandni and I have definitely had our phases through the years where we have been closer at times than others, but that's what happens with life and long-term friendships! No matter what though, we can always pick up where we left off and even go down memory lane and still belly laugh to some of the craziest and funniest things that have happened, like the cockroach in the punjabi!! 🤣

Chandni has a huge heart and truly deserves all of the happiness in the world! I am so glad you have found your prince charming!! Neeran you are one lucky guy and as I'm sure you know this little feisty one will do everything to make sure you always feel loved!

Thank you both for allowing me to be a part of your special day! ❤️ Cheers to your journey, I know you will both build an AMAZING life together!! ✨️🥂

I met Chandni on a warm summer day before the school year started. We met at a bar through a mutual friend. I did not know then how big of an impact she would have on my life. I learned that day that she would be coming to work with us at Elkins High School as an English teacher. I am in the Social Studies department so I did not know how much time we would end up spending together and how very dear she would become to me.

It started simply with a, “ Do you want to grab a drink after work?” While we complained about our days, we got to know more and more about each other. I saw what a beautiful heart she had. We made it a sort of ritual to go have a drink and dive into our lives. I appreciated her so much for being there for me through any and everything that I was going through. In the time we have known each other we have seen some good and hard times at work and in our own lives but we have always been by each other’s side. I met Neeran at a bar as well… I think there’s a theme here… and he could not have had a kinder soul. I knew the wonderful way she spoke of him and I could see all the things Chandni had said about him. When I found out Chandni was dating Neeran, I knew that he was the one, and I knew that above all he wanted to love and care for her.

As they continue this journey it has been a true honor to see them thrive and grow together. I wish them nothing but happiness and I am so touched to be a part of this wedding.

Chandni and I were destined to meet! If someone had told me I would be working at a middle school, I would have laughed and said no way. However, that is exactly what happened. In 2019. I was moved to Lake Olympia Middle School. She and I ended up having morning duty together in the Gym and pretty much hit it off instantly.

She had to convince some people that I was actually a nice person, because apparently, I have RBF. We began chatting every morning and before we knew it, we became close friends. That was the Covid year, and at the end of 2020, she and I moved on to different schools. We stayed in contact and our friendship continued to grow. I was so proud of her when she took and passed her high school ELA certification because in the back of my mind, I knew I wanted her to work for me again. That is exactly what happened when she reached out to me to ask about teaching at Elkins for me. I immediately said YES! Chandni is not only a great friend, but she is also an amazing educator and I knew that she would give her all for her students. She did come and work for me at Elkins and our friendship has just continued to grow.

I met Neeran one evening when I was out with Chandni and some other friends. She told me that she liked him, so I invited him to come to a pool party with us the next day. At first, he said he couldn’t, but then I told him that he had to come, or I would be so upset. He is such a kind person and did not want that, so he agreed to come to the party. Neeran is a great person and I liked him instantly. I was so honored when she asked me to be one of her bridesmaids! I love her and I wish she and Neeran the best!

I was giving a task to write about my friend Chandni. I have always made jokes about how hard of a teacher she probably is and that I would never want to be in her class. She literally used to correct my grammar within text messages. There have been occasions she even told me I talked like a toddler. My fears came to fruition when she told me I failed on this current assignment and that I had to resubmit it. LOL, well why am I not surprised this has been our friendship from the get-go. I do something, and then she corrects me. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Ok que the flashback music, my earliest memories of Chandni was when I first met her when I was fifteen years old. I just happened to be at a mutual friend’s house when she had come to visit. I never told her this but meeting her was like meeting a celebrity. I came up with a nickname for her “munchkin”. Now don’t let the size fool you, she may be small but what she lacks in size she makes up with that Texas size heart of hers. Now what sucked, was we wouldn’t become good friends till much later in life.

Fast Forward, “That Later in Life”, finally came when she walked into my house a few years ago. She had come to visit my wife and brought along a wild puppy she was thinking about adopting. She spent the day with us, and I got to relive the memories of meeting her all over again. Now I highly doubt she remembered me from long ago. Doesn’t really matter because I’m getting a chance to be part of her wedding. So, I must have done something right. Look how fate worked out, and its all because my ex-wife. I should thank her. Since then, we have created many great memories, but I still can’t get over the time I got my ass whipped in Trivial Pursuit by her.

That’s when I knew, damn this girl smart, Haha. Chandni has created a new meaning to friendship. She always had my back and has always been there for me. Even when I’m being lazy and I don’t reach out, she never forgets too. I mean who else has time 2 am in the morning to help me with an anxiety attack. Who else is going to cook my food at Gyu-Kaku. Who else is going to create a silly song for me which she still sings from time to time. Now that’s special. She also gave me a nickname, “Vimi” which others now use. Most importantly when Chandni calls you family she means it. She never forgets birthdays, Diwali, Thanksgivings, and New Year’s. Never once demanded anything in return. Except maybe the Life-Long rights to tease me. Along with bringing sunshine into my life she brought along some great people into my life. Many who I can now call good friends. Should any of us be surprised on how great of a person she is. As much as she loves her family and friends, she still has room in her heart for animals. While most of us want to help animals, she did something about it and created her organization.

I am so proud of her for that. All the Cats in Houston Thank her for her Service. Now how can I forget I’m writing about a damn good ELA teacher. So, I must end with a proper conclusion. There’s still a risk she makes me redo this again lol, but all jokes aside this was my chance to thank her for everything she has done for me. She was truly a blessing in my life, and it came at a time that I really needed it. This world would be a better place if there were more Chandni’s in it. Its bittersweet but I am so happy for her next chapter in life. She deserves it and much more. I was lucky enough to have a friend like her this life, now I can only wish I can have a friend like her in my next life. Oh, and it turned out Chandni never ended up adopting that puppy, I think she adopted me instead.

So, I was asked by the bride to be to write up a bio on myself and some words on how we became friends. I can attest that the following is not written under duress, and I don’t have a gun pointed at my head while I write this. My bio is short and sweet, single male, father of 2 great kids and a rescue pup.

The “rescue” part is the important portion of how I first met Chandni. I was looking to get more involved in animal rescue and volunteered to help out on a Saturday with Love and Rescue at a local PetSmart. This is how I met the person who would eventually end up one of my favorite people. We chatted and got to know each other over a few Saturdays like this and eventually decided to grab a drink and food after.

Over the course of the next few years our friendship grew into one of those unique things that I honestly don’t believe everyone gets to have. We added a few people to our little group and looked after and took care of each other through several good and difficult moments. We hung out on holidays, delivered food when someone was sick, and made it a point to not let anyone be alone on Valentine’s or birthdays. When Chandni chooses you to be a part of her life, the loyalty and love she has for you is immeasurable. She loves her friends and family with all that she is, and it was easy to reciprocate that when someone is so open about how much she cares.

I always hoped that she would meet someone worthy of her, but what I got with Neeran was so much more. In him I got a brother who loves and cares for her in her good and bad moments. He understands her crazy cat ideas and not just tolerates them but seems to encourage them. I have been blessed to get to know Neeran over the past few years and while initially my love and care was for Chandni alone, it now extends to him as well. I wish for them both all the love and happiness they can endure and can’t wait to see what the future has in store for them!

Chandni and I met when we were about 6 years old ONLY because our parents were friends and they would drag us kids to various functions. That does NOT mean we were friends immediately. In fact, I actively thought that all girls had cooties so I avoided Chandni as much as possible. Sue me.

We never really got to know each other over the years for two main reasons:

1. We didn't live in the same part of town

2. My parents hated the idea of me enjoying life and getting out of the house

However, we reconnected after I moved back to Houston in 2017. Right from the beginning, I realized that Chandni had a knack for saying things that were extremely easy for me to make fun of, and I took EVERY opportunity she gave me. Her reactions to my jokes about her were either eyerolls, slapping my arm or yelling at me - this response was by far the most common. Anyone else that happened to be within earshot would try their best to hide their laughter for fear of Chandni Retaliation © but the laughs from an audience only fueled me further.

For some reason, Chandni decided to keep me around (my guess is her parents bribed her since they love me) but that ended up being a good thing for a few reasons. Despite our hate/love/hate/hate relationship, I've learned that Chandni is a truly caring person that would run through a wall for the people she loves. She is extremely dedicated to her students as well as her charitable efforts for pets - I've met a lot of people in my life but very few have Chandni's level of passion and I truly respect it. Through her, I got to meet some amazing people that I'm lucky to call friends. Chandni even introduced me to the amazing crawfish at Big Ben and quite honestly, that might be the best thing that has come out of our friendship.

Now that I'm done being nice, I would like to take this opportunity to let anyone reading this that I would be happy to make fun of Chandni in your presence. However, I cannot promise your safety if you laugh and she gets mad at you for it.