Close-up of two open hands with intricate henna designs forming a heart shape across both palms, held against a blurred green grass background. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - Oregon

Mailee and Robin | Mehndi and Turmeric Ceremony

Jessica HillByJessica Hill

Close-up of two open hands with intricate henna designs forming a heart shape across both palms, held against a blurred green grass background. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - OregonTwo women are seen through a window; one is sitting and applying henna to the other's hand. The reflection of trees and outdoor lights is visible on the glass, blending indoor and outdoor scenes. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - OregonA person is applying intricate henna designs on another person's palms over a pink patterned cloth. The hands show detailed, symmetrical mehndi art, and colorful bangles are visible on one wrist. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - OregonA group of women stand together indoors, smiling and laughing while holding drinks. They are dressed in colorful, patterned clothing and appear to be enjoying a lively conversation at a social gathering. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - OregonTwo people show their hands decorated with intricate henna designs; one features a heart and geometric patterns on both palms, while the other has a floral design on the back of one hand. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - OregonThree women are smiling and looking excitedly at something on the hand of the woman in the center. They are standing indoors, wearing colorful clothing, and appear to be enjoying the moment together. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - OregonFour images side by side show intricate henna designs on hands, including floral and paisley patterns. One person looks down at their palms displaying symmetrical designs. The backgrounds vary, with outdoor and indoor settings. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - OregonA group of women in colorful traditional attire smiling and applying turmeric paste to a seated man in yellow clothes during a festive outdoor ceremony at night. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - OregonA group of women in colorful traditional sarees sit together, some listening and some singing, with a microphone in front. They appear to be at an outdoor event or gathering. Trees and blurred background visible. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - OregonA group of women in colorful clothing sing outdoors while one woman in the foreground holds a tambourine decorated with silver jingles. Trees are visible in the blurred background. Jessica Hill Photography - Wedding Photographer - Oregon
Mailee and Robin’s turmeric wedding consisted of many different beautiful Hindu ceremonies that I had the absolute pleasure of documenting. The mehndi or henna ceremony and the tumeric ceremony are traditional and incredible Hindu wedding ceremonies that happen before the wedding. Blue Lotus Henna in Portland created stunning designs for the bridesmaids and female family members while Robin was rubbed with cleansing turmeric before the big day with his family surrounding him. Turmeric is not only used for cleansing, but can also come in the form of Turmeric pills and supplements, which provide a number of health benefits. I can’t wait to share the wedding from the Portland Art Museum later this week!

Jessica Hill
Jessica Hill

Jessica Hill is an award-winning photographer with over 20 years of experience. A University of Michigan BFA graduate, she's one of the Pacific Northwest's most distinguished wedding photographers, earning Oregon Bride's Best Portland Photographer in 2020.

As the creative force behind Jessica Hill Photography, she blends editorial sophistication with authentic emotion. Based in Hood River with a Portland studio, Jessica specializes in "effortlessly elegant" weddings from intimate elopements to sophisticated receptions. Her work has been recognized by Fearless Photographers and World's Best Wedding Photos.

Jessica is also a respected educator and mentor, empowering emerging photographers through coaching programs. Follow her on Instagram and Facebook.