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This afternoon, we join Brides Up North reader Natasha and her fiancé Arvind for an engagement shoot with a difference: these two invited 60 friends and family along too, to celebrate their “Rokka”.
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A Rokka is an unofficial betrothal ceremony of Punjabi origin where the family and friends of the bride and groom give presents, money and blessings to the couple to be. Though rings are not exchanged, the couple stand engaged after this ceremony.
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Natasha says: We got engaged at my house in November 2012 and it was a planned engagement – a Rokka – allowing both extended families to meet. We are getting married in Newcastle in July 2013.
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We first spoke over the phone in February 2012 having met on Asian Matrimonial website called Shaadi.com. Following the phone conversation, a week later, we met in Leicester square, London where we had a coffee then dinner. It snowed that day too!
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After our first date, Arvind made the move and asked for a second! I knew there was something very different about him and agreed. After the second date, we both knew that this was meant to be.
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Most couples have a big party for their Rokka. To make it memorable, we wanted a small meeting of two families (still 60 people!) and asked Andy of Andy Hudson Photography to come along to capture the memories.
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A first we felt quite uncomfortable in front of the camera, but soon relaxed. We also managed to slip outside for a few photographs of just the two of us and despite the freezing weather, we really enjoyed ourselves!
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Congratulations Natasha & Arvind! 
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Get in touch if you would like to share your love story, engagement shoot or Real Wedding. Here’s how.
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Brides Up North UK Wedding Blog – Images © 2013 Andy Hudson Photography
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Congratulations Helen & Chris! 
