Hera's Haven Wedding & Event Venue

Christian Wedding

Ceremony

Reception

Haldi Ceremony

Mehndi Ceremony

Hindu Wedding

Emily & Pratik's Wedding Weekend

Q + A

We met through an app called "Bumble" and went to eat some Indian food in Arlington on the first date. After a few more dates we discovered we had much in common and began to date seriously. He loves cats as much as I do! All of our friends enjoyed spending time with us as a couple and individually. There is never a dull moment when we are together from going on road adventures, exploring DFW, cleaning my room, or hanging out with family. We both made it through our doctoral programs together. Pratik completely surprised me with how he proposed. He made up a story about going to Sapphire Pass Overlook in Colorado while we were there for a conference and he got lost attempting to find the overlook. Little did I know that he had hired a photographer to capture the proposal and was attempting to locate him when we got there. This journey is going to be our biggest adventure together yet!

Our Story

Adventures Together

Hi, I'm Emily for those who don't know. I am getting married!!! I am a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and have a passion for helping people and loving/living with cats. Currently I have 4 and the amount of hair they distribute....phew, it's a lot. Anyone want a cat? LOL. Pratik and I are psyched about this wedding weekend and that you all will be here to support us. Thanks in advance!

Emily Laughlin

Pastor Russ is the Spiritual Life and Development Vice President at Southwestern Adventist University, is a pastor, and the officiant of this wedding. He has had the opportunity to officiate his son's wedding, his niece and nephew's, and now his daughter's wedding. He will tell you he is not a fan of cats, but he secretly loves them. Jeanne Laughlin, Emily's mom, is a nurse and reading specialist who is also a cat enthusiast! She enjoys gardening, water activities, and playing with her grandchildren. 

Mr. & Mrs. Laughlin

I have known Tatyana since we were in middle school. We survived Big Bend, adventured through Washington D.C., and worked at camp together. Life is never boring with all of the animals we have, especially if combined. Pool days and beach days are the ones that we dream about doing at any time! We're all about the water life :) Despite living far apart, we have continued to be thick as thieves and both want more fur babies! 

Tatyana Weidman

I met Janelle through a chance encounter when I bought her biology book in 2015. We bonded through genetics and organic chemistry. Essentially she became my almost biological sister, except we don't look at all alike (LOL). Janelle has taught me more about crafting, cooking, and DIY projects than I'll ever recover from. 

Janelle Sobey

Lisa I met through work when she started on PCU. We really bonded from talking over queso and chips at Fuzzy's and never were the same after. From concerts, swimming, and to traveling, there are always lots of laughs and struggles to be on time. Since I graduated from Texas Christian University (TCU) with my doctoral degree, Lisa loves me even more since it's her alma mata and second home. 

Lisa Thompson

I met Ivneet while dating Pratik. She was working on her PhD degree too and helped me tremendously as I struggled with biostatistics in my program. Ivneet has been my partner in crime for helping plan parties, celebrations, and events within our close knit friend group. We have shared many laughs throughout all of our shenanigans. 

Ivneet Banga

I have known Cindi for a long time! We started as coworkers and then she became my charge nurse. Next thing I knew she advanced her knowledge and went to more critical care areas until we both ended up working at Texas Health Cleburne, in Cleburne, Texas. We have had so many adventures, laughs, late nights, and sunny days together. From brunch to getting our nails done to long conversations about life, we have become life long friends. 

Cindi Joslin

Lindsay is my (Emily's) cousin, so we've known each other forever. As we've both gone into different aspects of health care, our relationship has deepened. We enjoy sending instagram memes to each other, getting pedicures, and drinking coffee. It has been fun to continue to spend time together and in groups with friends and our partners.  Lin has also been a valuable resource during the wedding planning process. 

Lindsay Tiffany

I'm Pratik, the groom, and a data scientist. I fell in love with Em because of her blue eyes and curly hair. I also love cats. Em and I have gone on many adventures, but this will be our biggest one yet. 

Pratik Bansode

Pratik's dad is a retired supervisor from the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai. He worked there for 30 years. His mother is a homemaker and has wonderfully cared for Pratik and his brother. 

Mr. & Mrs. Bansode

Pawan may be my younger brother by age, but when you speak with him, you'd swear he's the older one. He's been there for me through every storm and sunshine, a constant companion in the wild rollercoaster of life. Growing up, we've shared a treasure trove of memories—those endless laughs and even the bittersweet tears. He's been my secret keeper, my co-conspirator, and my rock-solid support. As I step into this new adventure, I can't help but feel an overwhelming gratitude for having him by my side, not just as my brother, but as my best man. 







Pawan Bansode

Satyam and I knew each other since 2016. We did our masters and PhD together and were roommates for almost 6 years. Through all those late-night study sessions and weekend adventures, we formed an unbreakable bond. He has been a steadfast friend, a trusted confidant, and a brother in every sense of the word. Moreover, he has known Emily since the very beginning of our relationship, witnessing our love story unfold. It means the world to me to have him standing by my side, celebrating the next chapter of our lives.

Satyam Saini

Our story began in Mumbai, where I first met AJ before we embarked on our journey here for our master's studies. From that first meeting, a deep and meaningful connection grew. Over the years, AJ has become so much more than just a friend; he's been a pillar of strength and support. Through every twist and turn, whether in moments of triumph or in life's quieter times, he's been there, offering unwavering support and sharing in the laughter that has punctuated our days. AJ has had a front-row seat to the evolution of my relationship with Emily, witnessing every step of our love story. 

Ajinkya (AJ) Mahajan

Pardeep and I have been connected since 2018, having collaborated on our PhDs and shared a home for close to five years. He's proven himself a loyal friend, a dependable advisor, and truly a brother in every respect. He's also been familiar with Emily from the start of our relationship, watching our romantic journey develop. It's incredibly significant for me to have him present, marking the advent of our next life stage together.

Pardeep Shahi

Rocket Scientist. Dad of Annie (she's a cat). We met just two years ago, but in that short time, we've built an incredible bond. We not only shared a home as roommates but also were able to work together at the same company. Vivek has been a constant presence in my life, and his support has meant a lot to me. He has been there to witness the wonderful journey I've had with Emily, and the three of us often joke that we're like peas in a pod.

Vivek Nair

Akash was more than just a roommate during my master's program and the first year of my PhD. He always jokes that I will eat rice with nutella. As time went on, he became my rock, my unwavering support through every high and low. His presence was a constant comfort, whether we were celebrating victories or simply enjoying quiet moments together.  

Akash Patel

Himanshu is like a younger brother. Em and I constantly tease him, and despite our best efforts to embarrass him, he never takes it to heart. He's been our loyal friend, laughing at our jokes and putting up with our antics. From day one, he’s been a witness to my relationship with Emily, watching every cringey, romantic moment unfold. His resilience and sense of humor have made him an indispensable part of our journey.

Himanshu Modi

I met Megha through Pratik and instantly bonded because of our naturally curly hair. We definetly felt a connection and have a love of furr babies (Me-cats, Megha-dogs). Due to distance, we had not been able to hangout as often as we preferred, but now that she is back in the area, we have started having many adventures. Pratik and I look forward to many dance parties, great food nights, and fellowship. Cheers to being a part of our wedding party and upcoming nuptials!!!!

Megha Tangri

Pratik met Rohit while he was working on his master's degree at UTA and introduced Emily to him. Many adventures and laughs occur when the three of them are together.  All of us love Velvet Taco and are always wanting to go there. We are so grateful to Rohit for being willing to translate thereby allowing the entire audience the ability to understand what occurs and why. It means the world to us that you said yes to this task. Thank you again :)

Rohit Suthar

Pratik knew Srushti far longer than me, but upon meeting on vacation, I knew we had kindred spirits. Srushti also has long, amazing curls just like myself. She has taught me a lot about Indian culture, dancing, and food. There is never a dull moment because she is always up for an adventure! Throughout the wedding planning, she has been a constant resource to help guide us for the whole weekend. So grateful for all the tips and tricks she provided. 

Srushti Patel

Charlie is Janelle's husband and long time friend of the bride and groom. Emily was able to witness the love story between Janelle and him bloom. Pratik and Emily have enjoyed game nights with Charlie and loved seeing his competitive side, especially when it comes to playing mafia. 

Charlie Sobey

Jeremy is Emily's cousin-in-law and has seen the couple grow together in their relationship. He has even gone clay shooting with them too. Pratik and Jeremy are able to nerd out about video games and relate to engineering topics, something Emily and Lindsay often look at them like they're crazy and speaking gibberish. 

Jeremy Tiffany

From the days when Sai was grinding through his master's while Pratik was at UTA, he’s evolved into a close friend and honorary family member for us. Emily met Sai through Pratik and instantly clicked with him, finding a kindred spirit who loves a good laugh. The two of them love to antagonize each other, creating endless amusement for everyone around. Emily particularly enjoys putting Sai on the spot, especially when she can coax him into dancing at events. His reluctance only makes it more entertaining!

Sai Pundla 

Mel works for Double Blessing Events and will be our wedding coordinator for the weekend. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to ask her. She is happy to help or guide you to the correct person/place :)

Mel Ewing

Wedding Party

Hotel/Transportation Information

Coming from the Keene/Cleburne direction, the Hillsboro hotels or Midlothian hotel would be the closest option. If coming from Dallas, staying in Waxahachie would be the best option. Uber or Lyft are available for those that may not want to drive to the wedding venue.

-Closest to venue. Rates start as low as $64.99 per night

Italy Inn

18 minutes away from the wedding venue.

Hampton Inn & Suites Waxahachie

A reputable hotel chain. Close to 22 minutes from the venue.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Waxahachie

23 minutes away from wedding venue

Best Western Plus Waxahachie Inn & Suites

-Close to 15-20 minutes from the venue.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Waxahachie, an IHG Hotel

Coming from Cleburne/Keene, this is the cheapest hotel chain to the wedding venue that I've found. 23 minutes away from venue. No breakfast included, only coffee.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hillsboro

21-24 minutes away. AAA discount available.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Hillsboro

22 minutes from the wedding venue.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hillsboro

28 minutes from wedding venue. Furthest hotel from the venue.

Courtyard by Marriott Dallas Midlothian at Midlothian Conference Center

Travel

With a motto like "The Biggest Little Town in Texas," Italy is one of the most charming places you'll ever visit. Founded in 1879, the town was named after the country of Italy, which one of its settlers had recently visited.

Named "Bruco," the world's largest caterpillar (60 feet wide, 22 feet tall, and 350 feet long, to be exact) is actually a manufacturing site for a company called Monolithic. It's quite a roadside attraction!

"Bruco"

When it comes to food, there are several delicious restaurants to choose from in Italy. Locals rave about Mamma's Place, where you'll find homemade Tex-Mex favorites like enchiladas, tamales, tacos, and rice and beans.